By S. Siapha Mulbah
Pious Dolo, a current player for Nimba United Football Club, has shared his perspective on changing the long-standing public perception that playing football in Liberia holds little significance until players secure international contracts. Dolo, who plays in the national third division league and has not yet moved abroad for a professional contract, strongly believes that playing football domestically offers valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
In an interview with this paper over the weekend, Dolo emphasized that playing football in Liberia should not be seen as insignificant. “Playing football in Liberia is much more than what many think. It gives players a chance to think critically, understand the deeper issues surrounding the game, and create ideas aimed at changing the perception that football here has no value,” he said.
Dolo stressed that whether playing at home or abroad, players must find balance in their lives, focusing on self-development in areas that sustain their talent beyond the football pitch. “It’s not just about playing; it’s about growing in other capacities that contribute to our lives and the development of the country,” he explained.
In addition to his football career, Dolo shared an inspirational story about his new venture, Sports Authority, a sports equipment store he recently opened in Monrovia. The store, which provides quality soccer and other sporting materials to athletes and teams, is a testament to Dolo’s belief that athletes can still make a significant impact within Liberia, even without international contracts.
Dolo reflected on his many years of playing football and the challenges he saw facing local athletes. “I often thought about what else I could do while not on the pitch to contribute to the development of our nation,” he said. It was through his entrepreneurial training and reading courses that Dolo began to envision opening a business that would not only support the growth of sports in Liberia but also contribute to nation-building.
“The Sports Authority Store, also known as the number one sports center in Liberia, shows that even if you do not have an international contract, you can still play football at home and do positive things that contribute to the development of our country,” Dolo added.
The young entrepreneur explained that Sports Authority aims to provide high-quality, durable sports equipment, addressing the challenges faced by local teams and players who often struggle to find reliable materials. “As a player in Liberia with limited experience abroad, I understand the difficulties of getting proper, long-lasting sports materials. At Sports Authority, we are committed to offering products that will not only serve players but also improve the overall standard of sports in Liberia,” Dolo affirmed.
Dolo also encouraged young players in Liberia to prioritize building their capacities beyond football. “It’s important to get other skills that will enhance your career, just as players in other parts of the world do,” he advised.
Since its establishment, Sports Authority has continued to make an impact, with Dolo ensuring that teams and players are provided with the best quality sports materials. His initiative serves as a reminder that the football landscape in Liberia can be a platform for growth, both on and off the pitch.
As Dolo continues to inspire his peers, he remains focused on changing the narrative around playing football in Liberia, proving that the game can offer much more than the pursuit of international contracts. Through his business and passion for the sport, he aims to contribute to the advancement of football and sports in Liberia, creating a lasting legacy for the next generation of players.
