By Chernor Alimamy Kamara
The football fraternity in Sierra Leone has been inundated with condolence messages and tributes on both social and traditional media following the death of one of the country's top Coaches, Abdulai Kaloga Bah. He died in the early hours of 14th June, 2024 at the Connaught hospital after a short illness.
Kaloga as he was popularly known coached FC Johansen, East End Lions, the Women's national team and recently Bhantal FC presently second in the men’s premier league table before his demise.
Various clubs have issued statements paying tribute to the popular coach. Diamond Stars in their statement said "losing someone we love is unimaginable pain, and the void left behind by their absence is immense. Late Coach Kaloga Bah was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many in the sport world. He will be remembered for his kindness, compassion and sportsmanship."
"Our hearts go out to Bhantal FC during this time of sorrow. We hold you close in our thoughts at this sad time," Real Republicans FC said in a statement.
East End Lions in their reaction said " the legacy of Coach Kaloga will live on through the bonds of friendship and solidarity that have been forged in his memory, reminding us of the enduring spirit of sportsmanship and humanity that defines football at its core."
According to FC Johansen"Coach Abdulai Kaloga Bah was a leader, a tactician and an inspiration to the Johansen squad he led between 2016 and 2021. His dedication and passion for the game at both club and national engagements were exceptional.".
"Coach Bah had a huge personality to the development of football, especially grassroots football in Sierra Leone. He will be remembered for his playing philosophy of a free flow and entertaining style of football," FC Kallon’s statement reads in part.
Old Edwardians FC said: "we pray that God grants the late Coach Kaloga eternal rest and also grant those he left behind the fortitude to bear the tragic loss."
The Sierra Leone Football Association in its tribute said:" Coach Bah's passion, expertise and unwavering commitment to the sport inspired many and will be profoundly missed."
Academy side Hada FC describes kaloga’s passing as a “significant blow to any team and Hada FC's gesture highlights the importance of compassion within the competitive world of sports."
However during his time at the women's national team, Coach Kaloga faced indecent allegations regarding his female players, but was cleared by the Police after weeks in detention.
Copyright © 2024 Politico (20/06/24)
