ADNews-Monrovia: An Italian Liberian, Paolo Zeno, born in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, has returned to Liberia with a mission to revitalize grassroots sports development.
By Amos Harris
After spending three decades in Italy pursuing his passion for football, Zeno is now dedicating his expertise to empowering young athletes in the Paynesville Sub-Committee leagues.Zeno, who played as a left winger wearing the iconic number eleven jersey in Italy, addressed the media at the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex on Saturday, December 14, 2024, sharing his vision for youth sports development.
“When I returned, young people in the community approached me to manage their team,” Zeno said.
“What started as a short-term effort soon revealed immense potential not just for playing football, but for building a future.”
Based in Lower Margibi County, Zeno has launched several community-driven initiatives to inspire teamwork, education, and self-sufficiency among young athletes.
His efforts extend beyond football to kickball, a sport he has embraced despite his football background.
“We’re providing footballs, jerseys and even scholarships to players, encouraging them to balance their education with sports,” Zeno explained.
“Self-sufficiency is key, whether they become professional footballers, kickball players, or pursue other careers.”
Zeno has already contributed LRD 40,000 to his team, Zeno’s Team, as an incentive to push for the Paynesville Sub-Committee league title.
He further announced plans to raise LRD 100,000 as a performance bonus to motivate both football and kickball players.
Zeno’s commitment to his players has earned him admiration and respect. Members of the kickball team praised his leadership style and unwavering support for grassroots sports.
“He is a friendly manager who always listens to everyone, no matter their status on the team,” said one player.
Zeno’s initiatives are backed by the Zeno Group of Investment, which funds team equipment, training, and community activities.
His goal is to not only produce competitive athletes but also foster a culture of unity and purpose through sports.
“I’m here to make a difference,” Zeno concluded. “Together, we can redefine the future of grassroots sports in Liberia.”
Zeno’s return signals a hopeful chapter for the nation’s young athletes, blending passion, experience and vision to ignite change on and off the field.
Comments are closed.