In a bold move to empower both current and former footballers, Aletha Massaquoi, Acting Womenโs Football Manager at the Liberia Football Association (LFA), has officially launched the initiative โCelebrating Life with Football.โ Held under the theme โAfter Football,โ the initiative aims to provide support, opportunities, and scholarships for players transitioning beyond their playing careers.
The launch event took place on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the SKD Practice Sports Pitch with friendly football matches held in both the male and female categories.
Bushrod Queens-II edged Saah Robert FC 1-0 to clinch the women’s trophy, while Embassy Old Timers triumphed over TOSAC 3-0 to win the menโs category.
Speaking at the event, Massaquoi described the program as a life-changing initiative driven by the needs of former and active footballers who often face challenges after their playing days.
โThis initiative is designed by former and current players, for players especially focusing on life after football,โ Massaquoi said. โIt will award two scholarships annually to female players to support their educational or professional growth.
Massaquoi emphasized the importance of giving back, highlighting her personal journey and the support she received along the way.
โEmpowering another woman has always been my dream,โ she said passionately. โI love to see growth in people. Many helped me to be where I am today, so I must do the same for others.โ
She affirmed that โCelebrating Life with Footballโ will be an annual event, and she hopes to expand its reach beyond Montserrado County in future editions.
This year, two female players will be the first recipients of the scholarships.
Massaquoi expressed her heartfelt gratitude to several individuals and organizations who supported the program, including the LFA family, Mr. George Wornie, Mrs. Kou G. Boayue, Mr. Trokon Roberts (CEO of Tebeh), Mr. Abionor S. Kollah, Ms. Gayduo Princess Kennedy (President of Bendu FC), and many others.
She also acknowledged the media, football clubs, partners, friends, and family members who contributed to the success of the launch.
The Chief Launcher, Mr. Trokon Roberts, pledged US$300 toward the initiative and announced an additional scholarship for one female player, reinforcing his commitment to supporting football development and player empowerment.
โI am always willing to help,โ Roberts said
The program was well attended by members of the LFA, football coaches, players, including OK FM , BSI, TOSAC, ZAMA, Trokon Roberts (CEO of Tebeh), Ms. Gayduo Princess Kennedy, Naneka Hoffman, the Womenโs National Team staff and many others.
Their collective presence underscored the growing support for womenโs football and athletes in Liberia.
With determination and a vision for growth, Aletha Massaquoi new foundation for footballers to thrive on and off the pitch.
