By Nenneh Fofanah
Freetown, September 15th 2025- Every year, the COFA Inter-Community League, organized by the Central One Football Association, transforms Parade Field into a vibrant arena of passion, pride, and raw football energy. For the 35 community teams competing in the 2025 edition, it’s more than just a game. It’s a symbol of resilience, unity, and hope, not only for the players, but for the fans whose unwavering support keeps the tournament alive.
Formed over 30 years ago by a group of football lovers, the COFA League has grown into one of Sierra Leone’s most competitive grassroots tournaments. This year’s edition features teams from across Freetown and surrounding areas, all vying for community pride and a total prize pool of NLe110,000 for the champions and NLe60,000 for the runners-up.
Teams are grouped into pools, progressing through knockout stages, round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, leading to a grand final. But beyond the competition, the league serves as a platform for local talent and a bridge between neighborhoods in a post-conflict society still healing through sport.
The opening match saw defending champions Fourah Bay edge out Belgium Sellers 1–0, placing them at the top of Group A. On match days, Parade Field comes alive: women selling snacks and cold drinks, elders debating tactics, and fans cheering with pride, win or lose.
As teams prepare for crucial fixtures, one thing is clear: the COFA journey is about more than football. It’s about proving that even the smallest communities can dream big, and win.
Coach Lonto, technical director of the Waterloo team, has been coaching for over a decade. “This is our second time competing,” he said. “We’re here as a community with one aim, to win. Our biggest challenge is transportation, moving from Waterloo to Parade with our fans.”
Mohammed Juma Kamara, a league instructor and coordinator, acknowledged the passion and pressure from fans. “Most people don’t understand the rules, and in past years, we’ve faced violence. But so far this season, it’s been calm, just the usual abusive language, which we’ve come to expect. The love of the game keeps us going.”
Abu-Bakarr Barrie, captain of Summer City and a three-year veteran of the league, praised the organization and safety of this year’s tournament. “Many players from COFA have made it into the national and international teams. The medical team takes care of us when we’re injured. To my fellow players, stay off drugs. Train hard, and you’ll play well.”
Public Relations Officer Samuel Sama Sesay explained how sponsorships helped raise the prize money. “Interest in the league is growing. Forms sold out in one week. Player registration is always open, but if someone joins two teams, they’re disqualified unless both teams agree to release the player. We invest heavily in security, but people come with different intentions. We do our best to keep everyone safe.”
From the pitch to the stands, the COFA Inter-Community League continues to be a celebration of community spirit, talent, and the enduring power of football to unite and uplift.
