According to our reporter, who covered the 2026 friendly matches, the competition is designed to unite local communities. Each participating region showcases its cultural heritage, demonstrating the diversity and uniqueness of China.

Since its inception in the 1940s, the tournament has evolved into a symbol of cultural expression through sport. The 2026 edition combined football matches with vibrant cultural performances, drawing large crowds of locals eager to celebrate and appreciate their traditions.

The competition is notable for its inclusiveness, featuring players of all ages. Historically, the oldest participant has been 56 years old, while the youngest has been just 12.

The league has also attracted international attention, with former Ballon d’Or winners such as Kaká and Fabio Cannavaro having participated in past events.

Liberia’s Participation

In the 2026 edition, a 15-player Liberian select team—each representing one of the country’s counties—took part under the banner “County Meet All Star.” Their participation was widely seen as a symbol of strengthening “people-to-people” relations between Liberia and the People’s Republic of China.

The Liberian team recorded an emphatic 17–1 victory over Guangxi Qinglong Weidian in their opening match. However, this result sparked criticism on social media, with some questioning why a young and promising team was competing against what appeared to be less competitive opposition.

Following further understanding of the tournament’s cultural purpose, many critics acknowledged that the competition is not solely about elite performance, but about unity, heritage, and exchange.

Liberia later secured a 5–2 win over Leishan Langde Miao Village Team, completing a successful outing in matches played over a weekend in April 2026.

Cultural Exchange and Experiences

Beyond football, the 19-member Liberian delegation—including players, coaches, and technical staff—described the trip as an invaluable cultural learning experience.

They visited Guiyang, where they toured modern digital and artificial intelligence centers, gaining insight into China’s technological advancements. They also explored historical and cultural sites in Rongjiang County, including minority communities that maintain strong traditional lifestyles.

One notable observation was the emphasis placed on women in certain local cultures, as well as the community’s commitment to preserving traditional housing despite modernization efforts supported by the government.

The delegation also experienced scenic boat rides reminiscent of those often depicted in Chinese films and visited ancient trees—some over a thousand years old.

Additionally, they saw major infrastructure projects, including one of the world’s longest bridges, leaving them impressed by China’s engineering capabilities.

The team also visited the Guizhou Institute of Technology, where they interacted with 24 Liberian students studying there. The students showcased their Chinese language skills through songs and presentations, highlighting the educational opportunities available.

Key Takeaways

The delegation described China as highly developed, with friendly and welcoming people. They emphasized that the experience went far beyond football, offering insights into culture, unity, and technological progress.

The team returned to Liberia on May 4, 2026, expressing gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for facilitating the trip. Delegation head Amos Kollie praised the opportunity and expressed hope for continued collaboration and opportunities for young Liberians.

He repeatedly noted that experiencing Chinese culture firsthand during the tournament revealed its uniqueness and depth.

The post Liberia’s Participation in Rongjiang Village Super League Highlights Cultural Unity first appeared on OK FM.

Speaking at the occasion, the People’s Republic of China’s ambassador, Ren Yisheng, praised the several projects his country is currently working on in Liberia. With the two countries’ connection, Ambassador Yisheng thinks China will continue to play a friendly role to make sure Liberia understands the friendship. The project is located at the famous SKD Sports Complex in Paynesville.

“Given that there are up to 85 million disabled persons in China, we don’t regret doing this for the Liberian disabled population, and while this is a minor project, I think we will have a better one in the future.”

First open-air wheelchair basketball court
Founder and president of the Liberia Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Ambassador Lionel Johnson, stated that he is currently the happiest man in Liberia and said that it is beyond his wildest dreams to see a court constructed for his fellow disabled people. He asserts that the federation will hold its inaugural national league with six clubs due to the well-prepared facilities.

“I must express my gratitude to the government of Liberia and the People’s Republic of China for their continued support to our federation. As you can see, we have a brand-new facility to perform all of our activities here in peace, which makes me quite delighted.”

Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Zeogar Wilson said the government does not provide funding for federations but subsidies. He added that federations and associations lobbying for their own sponsors is welcome.

“We will play our part as a government, but remember, we can’t do everything for all the federations and associations.”

The post GoL in Partnership with China Dedicates First Wheelchair Basketball Court in Liberia first appeared on OK FM.

The Oilers were crowned alongside Commissioners, who emerged champions of the Women’s Division. Bushrod Dreams clinched the Male Second Division title, while Spark Giants secured the Third Division championship.

The ceremony attracted high-profile personalities, including veteran players, technical staff, administrators, and scores of supporters and stakeholders.

The highlight of the evening was Fedolph Marshall being named the First Division Most Valuable Player (MVP). Several individual awards were also presented.

In the First Division, Mohammed Keita of Mighty Barrolle won Highest Assist and Highest Scorer; Jeror Tarwo of NPA Pythons earned Highest Block; Marshall of LPRC Oilers secured Highest Rebounder and Highest Steal; and John Davids of Mighty Barrolle was recognized as Highest Pointer. Varfley Corney of LPRC Oilers was named Best Coach, while James Jappah of LPRC Oilers earned President of the Year honors. NPA Pythons finished as runner-up.

In the Women’s Division, Meagan Yanford of D-Rockas won Highest Assist; Sarah Kromah of Highlander Female earned Highest Block; Brialliant Quayee of Commissioners claimed Highest Rebounder; Fanta Jalloh of Commissioners took Highest Steal; Korpo Sumo of Commissioners won Highest Pointer and was named Most Valuable Player; and Ginny Johnson of D-Rockas secured Highest Scorer. Moses Simpson of Commissioners was named Best Coach, while George Wilson was honored as President of the Year. D-Rockas finished as runner-up.

In the Second Division, Ayouba Swaray of Bushrod Dreams won Highest Assist, Highest Scorer, and Most Valuable Player. George Selle of Kakata Rockets, Augustine Lomax of Knight Reapers (Highest Block and Highest Rebounder), and Terry Anderson of Bushrod Dreams were also recognized. Momolu Dukuly of Bushrod Dreams was named President of the Year, with Knight Reapers finishing as runner-up.

Third Division awardees included Henry Philip of Spark Giants (Highest Assist and MVP); Kamara Kosso of Highlander Male (Highest Block and Highest Scorer); David Evans of D-14 Warriors (Highest Rebounder); and Jonathan Tuazama of Spark Giants (Highest Steal). Gaye Tuazama was named Coach of the Year, Aaron Neymah Club President of the Year, and Highway Prince runner-up.

Womi Tarpeh was named Fan of the Year, while DOC Africa received Corporate Sponsor of the Year honors.

Meanwhile, LBA President Abraham B. Samukai praised stakeholders, referees, the executive committee, the Liberia National Olympic Committee, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports for their commitment to basketball in Liberia.

In his address, Samukai described the 2024/2025 season as “a remarkable journey marked by progress, resilience, and historic milestones.”

“This season, the Liberia Basketball Association successfully hosted the 2025 National League across four divisions — First Division, Women’s Division, Second Division, and Third Division. The smooth organization of competitions across these categories demonstrates our administrative capacity and commitment to inclusive participation,” he said.

Highlighting international achievements, he noted, “We proudly hosted the FIBA U-16 Zone 3 Qualifiers for both male and female categories. I am especially proud that our female team made us proud, while our U-16 male team achieved a historic milestone by ranking 9th in Africa — a significant leap that signals the rising potential of our young athletes.”

On governance, he added, “We held a successful Congress where a new Constitution was approved, strengthening our governance framework. Additionally, a budget was endorsed, laying the financial roadmap for our operations and development agenda.”

Samukai emphasized capacity building, stating, “This year, we trained 30 coaches who successfully qualified as FIBA Level One coaches. Furthermore, one referee was certified as a local FIBA trainer, positioning Liberia to independently build the capacity of our match officials.”

He also disclosed that construction of dressing rooms had begun to improve facilities for players and officials, and that Liberia was represented at the FIBA Congress in Bahrain to ensure the country’s voice is heard in international basketball governance.

However, he acknowledged existing challenges.

“The development of basketball in Liberia continues to suffer from inadequate support. Financial constraints have significantly limited our ability to execute programs at full capacity. The Association remains highly indebted to vendors following the hosting of international tournaments—obligations we must honor,” he stated.

He further stressed the need for sustained investment in technical development and infrastructure, noting that coaches, referees, statisticians, and table officials require continuous training to meet international standards.

“These constraints are real — but they are not insurmountable. Basketball in Liberia is growing. Our youth are passionate. Our players are talented. Our administrators are committed,” Samukai declared.

He called for stronger partnerships and collaboration from government, the private sector, and development partners.

“As we close this league season, let us remember that basketball is more than a game. It is discipline. It is unity. It is opportunity. It is national pride,” he concluded.

For his part, Deputy Minister for Sports, G. Andy Quamie appealed to the Liberia Basketball Association (LBA) to reconsider the suspension of the NPA Pythons for failing to honor their final game in the best-of-five championship series against the LPRC Oilers.

The deputy minister called for reconciliation and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of unity and sportsmanship in the development of basketball in Liberia.

“Basketball is about discipline and respect for the rules, but it is also about inclusion and second chances,” Quamie said. “I am appealing to the leadership of the LBA to look into the matter concerning the NPA Pythons and consider reinstating the team in the interest of fairness and the growth of the game.”

He noted that while regulations must be upheld, the broader objective should be to strengthen the league and maintain healthy competition.

The Deputy Minister further assured the Association of the Ministry’s continued support in promoting discipline, dialogue, and development within the sport.

The post LPRC Oilers Crowned 2025 LBA Champions at Colorful SKD Ceremony first appeared on OK FM.

The Mighty Barrolle prospect dominated the 2025/2026 basketball competition, earning two major honors—Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Highest Scorer—after amassing an impressive 96 points throughout the tournament.

Lofa sealed the title with a thrilling 96–95 victory over Nimba County in an action-packed grand final played on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the SKD Gymnasium in Paynesville.

With this triumph, Lofa County has now secured two football, two kickball, and two basketball titles in the history of the National County Sports Meet.

In the third-place playoff, Grand Bassa County defeated Montserrado County 69–62 to claim the bronze medal.

Several players and officials were also recognized for exceptional performances during the tournament.

Blessing Nah of Lofa County led all players in steals with 12, while Hadrian Segwe of Montserrado County excelled in playmaking and defense, winning Highest Assists (15) and Highest Blocks (9).

Albert Fahnbulleh of Lofa County was named Best Coach, and Amadu Sesay of Nimba County earned the Best Rebounder award with an impressive 66 rebounds.

Meanwhile, Nimba County emerged overall champions of the 2025/2026 National County Sports Meet, securing their seventh County Meet title and maintaining their status as the competition’s most successful county.

In the football grand final, Nimba defeated Grand Kru County two goals to nil, with team captain Josiah Cea being named Most Valuable Player of the football competition.

Also Grand Cape Mount forward, Ralph Weah of Tebeh FC claimed the Young Player award as Nimba County Coach, Mamadee Sheriff was voted as the best Coach.

The Best defender award went to Grand Kru County’s Andrew Dennis.

In the kickball category, Margibi County claimed the championship after defeating Grand Cape Mount County in a dramatic penalty shootout.

Grand Cape Mount later secured third place in football with a 2–1 victory over Margibi, while Nimba County also claimed third place in kickball following a 1–0 home-run win over Grand Kru.

The post Anthony Quadria Claims MVP as Lofa Wins Second Straight County Meet Basketball Title first appeared on OK FM.

The delegation departed Liberia on January 10, 2026, via Road and transited through Ivory Coast and arrived in Lomé on January 11, 2026.

While in Togo, Liberia’s Under-16 and Under-14 national tennis teams will compete in the championship, scheduled to run from January 15 to 23, 2026. The tournament features nine participating countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, and host nation Togo.

Liberia’s youthful delegation includes the following players:
Under-16 Team
• Boys: Levi Baker, Bartee Karr
• Girls: Favor Gbana, Dorcas Moore
Under-14 Team
• Boys: Answer Nyennweh, Benjamin Kandakai, Washington Shajah
•
The delegation is accompanied by Jeffrey Martin (Assistant Coach) and Yaweh Innis-Medic.

The championships will feature both individual and team competitions, including singles and doubles matches for boys and girls in the Under-14 and Under-16 age categories.

The tournament serves as a key development platform under the International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT) junior circuit, providing young athletes with international exposure, ranking opportunities, and valuable competitive experience.

This competition marks the Liberia Tennis Federation’s third international appearance in recent months, following participation in the Youth Olympics in Angola in December 2025 and the Youth Championship Tournament in Accra, Ghana, in October 2025.

According to Paul Jamal King, President of the Liberia Tennis Federation, the continuous participation of young athletes in international competitions aligns with his long-standing vision of rebranding and revitalizing tennis in Liberia.

The post Liberia’s U-14 and U-16 Tennis Teams Set for CAT Junior Championships in Togo first appeared on OK FM.

Amid these challenges, several counties continue to celebrate the progress of their teams in both kickball and football.

On Sunday, January 11, 2026, excitement filled Grand Kru County as supporters watched both their kickball and football teams advance to the semifinals.

One of Grand Kru’s sons, Cyrus Saygbe, shared his excitement while speaking with members of the sporting press, expressing optimism about the county’s chances of winning silverware.

“Our roads from here in Grand Kru County are passable, and we want the rest of Liberia to come and celebrate with us,” Saygbe said.

He added that the county’s leadership has been very supportive, a factor he believes has strengthened their chances of success.

“As you can see, I am here for every match to support our teams as they push toward victory, which is coming along gradually. Today, we have reached the semifinals, and we are now preparing for this stage by taking the competition one game at a time,” he said.

Meanwhile, the semifinal stage of the County Meet is scheduled for this Wednesday at the SKD, featuring both kickball and football.

In kickball, Margibi will face Grand Kru in the first semifinal at 2:00 p.m., followed by Grand Cape Mount taking on Nimba at 3:00 p.m.

In the football category, Nimba and Margibi will clash in the first semifinal at 5:00 p.m., while Grand Cape Mount and Grand Kru will battle to determine the second finalist.

The post Grand Kru Son Cyrus Saygbe Expresses Optimism for County Meet Silverware first appeared on OK FM.

Although Bong County was among the eight counties that advanced to the quarterfinal stage after finishing as runners-up in Group D behind group winners Montserrado, both the male and female teams failed to meet expectations at that stage.

In kickball, Bong County lost all three of its quarterfinal matches, suffering heavy defeats of 8–0 to Grand Bassa, 4–0 to Grand Kru, and 3–0 to Nimba.

In football, Bong County recorded a 3–0 loss to Grand Cape Mount and another 3–0 defeat to Nimba but managed a narrow 1–0 victory over River Gee County.

Following these disappointing results, Representative Kolleh, speaking with members of the sporting press, apologized for the county’s continued struggles and disclosed that plans are already underway to secure silverware in future competitions.

He was in conversation with sporting press at the SKD on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

“I want to first congratulate the people of Bong County for their unwavering support throughout this period. Moving forward, we will begin preparations early and ensure that our homegrown players from Phebe Athletics and other local clubs are given priority,” Representative Kolleh stated.

He further emphasized that Bong County does not necessarily need to rely on players from bigger clubs such as Watanga, LISCR, and others before developing a competitive team.

Commenting on the county’s long wait for silverware, the District Two lawmaker said the people of Bong deserve joy during the National County Sports Meet by witnessing their teams emerge victorious.

Addressing issues related to player payments, Representative Kolleh revealed that outstanding matters have been resolved.

According to him, the players agreed to waive payment for one match and receive payment for two matches during the quarterfinal stage.

“On behalf of the Bong County Legislative Caucus, I want to once again apologize to our people,” Representative Kolleh concluded.

The post Rep. Kolleh Apologizes Over Bong County’s Poor Showing at National County Sports Meet first appeared on OK FM.

According to the committee, Ms. Urey’s actions violated Part II, Chapter 2, Article 20 (1 & 3) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which strictly prohibits the manipulation of football matches and competitions.

The decision followed investigations into a controversial league fixture between Shaita Angels FC and Paynesville FC, which reportedly raised serious integrity concerns and prompted further scrutiny by the FA after the game ended in 7-0 for Shaita FC.

Given Ms. Urey’s position as a club president and what the committee described as her role in the alleged conspiracy, a severe sanction was imposed.

The ruling bars her from all football-related activities, including administrative and sporting roles, for a period of five years. She is also prohibited from entering any football stadium during the duration of the suspension.

The LFA stated that the punishment underscores its commitment to upholding ethical standards and safeguarding the credibility of domestic football competitions.

However, reacting to the decision, Ms. Urey strongly denied the allegations, describing the ruling as politically motivated.

“This is a baseless accusation clearly intended to target me because of my open support for Cassell A. Kuoh’s presidential bid,” she said.

“The so-called ban is founded on mere speculation and gossip, with no proof, no evidence, and not a single individual coming forward to claim that I ever gave them money.”
Ms. Urey further maintained her innocence, insisting she has never engaged in match manipulation or communicated with any Paynesville FC player regarding fixing allegations.

“As a young woman striving to make an impact in Liberian football, I refuse to be discouraged by such unfounded allegations,” she added.
“I have never once communicated with any Paynesville FC player regarding match-fixing as claimed by the FA.”

She concluded by announcing her intention to challenge the ruling through all available channels.
“I will appeal this decision and pursue all necessary legal actions to defend my integrity and the reputation of all opposition team leaders, who have become constant targets under the current football administration.”

At the same time, the Liberia Football Association (LFA) Grievance and Disciplinary Committee has also found Paynesville FC player Eugene Swen culpable of match manipulation, following investigations into irregularities during the 2024/25 First Division League season.

Swen was cited for his involvement in matches involving Paynesville FC vs. Freeport FC and Shaita FC vs. Paynesville FC, actions which contravene Part II, Chapter 2 (20)(1 & 3) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

As a result of the findings, Swen has been banned from all football-related activities, including playing, coaching, and administrative involvement, for the period of two years.

He is also prohibited from entering football stadiums, effectively halting his professional football career for the duration of the sanction.

The LFA emphasized that players, regardless of status, will face decisive consequences if found guilty of compromising the integrity of the game, reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on match manipulation.

The post LFA Hands Five-Year Ban to Shaita Angels FC President Over Match Manipulation Allegations first appeared on OK FM.

The Liberia Football Association (LFA), with sponsorship from Doxxbet Liberia, on Saturday, December 27, 2025, hosted a spectacular 2025 LFA Awards Ceremony at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (EJS) Ministerial Complex, celebrating outstanding achievements in Liberian football.

The night brought together football stakeholders, players, officials, fans, and entertainers in an atmosphere filled with celebration, recognition, and top musical performances. Awards were presented to individuals and teams who distinguished themselves during the 2024/2025 league season, both locally and internationally.

The ceremony’s top honors went to Edwardline Jackson and Nicholas Andrews, who emerged as the Most Valuable Players (MVPs) in the Women’s and Men’s First Division categories respectively, capping off remarkable seasons for both stars.

New Award Categories Add Prestige
Unlike previous editions, the 2025 ceremony introduced new award categories aimed at broadening recognition across the football landscape.

These included: LFA Outstanding Achievement Awards, LFA Best XI, Best Liberian International
The newly introduced Best Liberian International (Male) award was claimed by Lonestar captain and Slavia Praha midfielder Murphy Oscar Dorley, making history as the first-ever winner of the category.

Award Winners by Category
LFA Outstanding Achievement Awards
Amputee Football Federation, Joel W. Doe and
Hannah Moses, LFA Fair Play Awards-World Girls FC – Female and Heaven Eleven FC – Male, LFA Best Referees, Hannah Moses – Female and
Joel W. Doe – Male, LFA Best Goalkeepers
James Wolo – Second Division, Albertha Pratt &, Grace Young – Women’s Division, Ahmed Savage – First Division, LFA Best Young Players, Josiah, Lacthro – Second Division, Jessica Quachie – Women’s Division, Prince Martor – First Division
LFA Best Defenders, Sekou Kanneh – Second Division, Francisca Howe – Women’s Division, Albert Swen – First Division, LFA Top Scorers, Francis Doe – Second Division, Bountou Sylla – Women’s Division, Nicholas Andrews – First Division, and Best Liberian International
Mimi Eiden – Female.

LFA Best XI of the Season-Women’s Best XI: Albertha Pratt, Margaret Stewart, Choice Tokpah, Francisca Howe, Diatta Langama, Bendu Yantay, Jessica Quachie, Mbassey Darboe, Miatta Morris, Edwardline Jackson, and Bountou Sylla.

Men’s Best XI: Ahmad Savage, Albert K. Swen, Josephus Mantor, Alexander Curtis, Melvin Wesseh, Josiah Cea, Lawrence Kumeh, James Zortiah, Jonathan Freeman, Nicholas J. Andrews and Mark Yallah.

LFA Players of the Year: Francis Doe – Second Division, Edwardline Jackson – Women’s Division
Nicholas Andrews – First Division.

Best Coach: Second Division-2 Jasper Benfelix, First Division-1 Ivan Jacky Minnaert and women’s division Famatta Dean.

The post Jackson and Andrews Crowned MVPs as Doxxbet Sponsors Glitzy 2025 LFA Awards Night first appeared on OK FM.

Team Liberia
The delegation includes: Emmanuel Chayee – Athlete, Perry Johnson – Athlete, and Norris Ben – National Team Coach.
The team is expected to depart Liberia on November 24 to finalize preparations ahead of the tournament.

Background on Pickleball in Liberia
Pickleball, a growing international paddle sport, combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is played on a badminton-sized court with a slightly lower net, using solid paddles to strike a perforated plastic ball. Players aim to hit the ball over the net in a manner that prevents opponents from returning it legally.
The sport was introduced in Liberia in 2024, and the country held its first competitive selection event in 2025 year to identify the athletes now chosen to represent the nation.

A Tool for Youth Development
According to local sports authorities, the inclusion of pickleball among Liberia’s sporting disciplines is part of a broader effort to inspire children and youth to engage in constructive activities.

By offering more options in sports, officials hope to reduce young people’s exposure to harmful substances and provide positive pathways for personal development.

A Promising Beginning
Liberia’s participation in the 2025 Championship not only highlights the country’s growing interest in nontraditional sports but also represents an important step toward establishing pickleball as a recognized national discipline.

The appearance of Team Liberia on the continental stage is expected to generate further enthusiasm and investment in the sport at home.

The post Liberia to Debut at 2025 Confederation of Africa Pickleball Championship first appeared on OK FM.