By Feyisetan Hamzat
The Chairman of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, has appealed to supporters of the Oluyole Warriors to remain patient and supportive of the team, assuring them that the club is committed to sustaining its progress and achieving greater heights.
In a message addressed to the club’s fans, Salami acknowledged their disappointment over the team’s performance, urging them not to lose faith in the players, coaches and management.
He noted that the frustrations of supporters were understandable, given the emotional and financial sacrifices they make to follow the club, describing Shooting Stars as a source of joy and pride for Ibadan and Oyo State.
According to him, some supporters close their businesses early or spend part of their daily earnings to watch matches because of their deep attachment to the club and their desire to see it succeed.
Salami said the management shared the same desire for success, stressing that no player, coach or official went into a match hoping to fail.
‘We Must Not Go Backward’
Reflecting on the club’s recent progress, the chairman highlighted Shooting Stars’ return to continental football after nearly three decades, describing it as a milestone that must be protected.
He said the club’s ambition should go beyond reaching that level to consolidating its achievements and pushing for even greater success.
Salami also pointed to improvements in the club’s operations, including sponsorship arrangements, air travel for away matches, better conditions for players and coaches, and the establishment of a club merchandise store.
He said these developments represented important steps forward and were among the reasons the club must not allow its standards to decline.
Using an illustration of someone who had progressed from eating plain porridge to eating chicken, the chairman said it was natural for supporters who had witnessed improvement to expect the club to maintain and surpass its current standards.
Calls for Unity and Continued Support
While acknowledging the concerns expressed by supporters, Salami appealed for collective responsibility, urging fans, management, coaches, the sporting director, players and other members of the club to work together.
He called on supporters to continue praying for the team and standing behind the club as it works towards fulfilling their expectations.
The chairman expressed confidence that, with unity, commitment and divine assistance, Shooting Stars could reach greater heights.
He concluded with a rallying call to the club’s supporters: “Up Shooting, Up Stars!”
