By Joseph S. Conteh
Sierra Leone’s AIK Kallon FC celebrated a momentous occasion on the 23rd of November, 2024, as the club unveiled its first-ever customized jersey and held its annual award ceremony at the Fillie Faboe Hall in Koidu City. The event was a testament to the club’s unwavering commitment to elevating the sport of football in the Kono region.
The Chairman and CEO, Alhaji Issa Kallon, expressed his pride in the club’s achievements, stating that this is the first time in Kono’s history that a local football club has unveiled a customized jersey from England. “We want to take football to another level,” he said, “and the people of Kono have already embraced the club for its distinctive style of play and strong organizational structure.”
Currently playing in the Sierra Leone First Division, AIK Kallon FC is determined to secure a spot in the prestigious Sierra Leone Premier League next year. The club boasts a diverse shareholder base, all united by their love for the game and their desire to see football grow in Sierra Leone.
The Head Coach, Umaru Sow, highlighted the club’s youth development programs, with three categories catering to U-12, U-15, and senior team players. These talents were primarily scouted from local school leagues and friendly matches, showcasing the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
The club’s administrative manager, Alhaji Alusine Timbo, revealed that AIK Kallon FC has a roster of over 150 players, with 8 currently on loan to Premier League teams. The club also takes pride in providing monthly salaries to its players and helping two of its players secure university scholarships.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of various individual awards, including Best Goalkeeper, Best Defender, Best Loan Player, Best Midfielder, and Best Foundation Player. These accolades recognized the exceptional talents within the AIK Kallon FC squad and underscored the club’s dedication to player development.
As the club looks towards the future, its ambitious plans include building a state-of-the-art national stadium in Kono that will cater to all the necessary facilities. This bold vision reflects the club’s determination to leave an indelible mark on the football landscape of Sierra Leone.
