The Golden Jubilee celebrations of Anglican Grammar School (AGS), Oke-Nla, Ifo, Ogun State proceeded on Friday with an exciting novelty football match between the school’s alumni and current students.
Trading corporate attire and classroom desks for football boots and jerseys, the participants turned the school pitch into a vibrant meeting point between its rich 50-year history and the present generation.
In a keenly contested encounter that combined veteran experience with youthful energy, the alumni team defeated the current students 3–2.
Jide Abogunrin, a member of the 1992 set and a former school striker, was the star of the match, scoring two goals for the alumni. His clinical finishing helped secure victory for the veterans.
Medals were presented to participating players and special guests to commemorate the milestone event.
Alumni Relive Past Glory
For the returning alumni, stepping onto the familiar pitch was an emotional experience.
O.S. Odebode Muyideen Ayoyemi, popularly known as Tewogbajo and a member of the 1991 set, recalled his days as a school footballer and the prestigious trophies he helped the team win, including the Lisabi Cup and the Governor’s Cup in the early 1990s.
“The match was very good, and I am very happy to be back on this pitch today,” Ayoyemi said, attributing the alumni’s victory to their experience and natural understanding of the game.
OS Funso Onipede, who is the immediate past president of the School Old Students Association (AGSOSA), also reflected on the enduring bond among former students.
Recalling his days as a school striker in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Onipede said the passion for football and the spirit of service remained strong among the alumni. “They usually say once a soldier is a soldier forever,” he remarked.
Sport Bridges the Generations
Beyond the goals and friendly rivalry, the match provided an opportunity for mentorship, camaraderie and intergenerational bonding.
The alumni praised the students for their spirited performance, while the younger players described the fixture as an invaluable learning experience.
Oladehinde Ibukun, representing the current students, said the team was inspired by the opportunity to play against their seniors.
“They show us love. They give us good education and support, and they even buy things for our school,” Ibukun said, graciously conceding the day’s bragging rights to the alumni.
Fellow student, Chukw Victor also expressed appreciation for the returning alumni, noting that their visit demonstrated genuine love and support for the students.
As AGS Oke-Nla continues its Golden Jubilee celebrations, the novelty match has set the tone for a memorable commemoration, bringing together past and present while celebrating the school’s enduring legacy of academic excellence, character development and community spirit.