In a world where age is often considered a barrier to success, Coach Kolade Awolusi Michael is shattering records and defying odds. And what a testament to his unwavering belief! Within a span of just a few hours, Coach Kolade Michael made history by clinching not one but TWO prestigious titles: the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup and the Under-15 competition for both boys and girls. This remarkable feat has left the sports community agog, wondering what's next for this trailblazing young coach.
With an aura of confidence that's simply infectious, this young coaching sensation sat down with us—Olamide Awoyinfa and Jimoh Adesope—to share the secret behind his jaw-dropping achievements. In this exclusive and candid interview, Coach Kolade Awoluyi Michael also shared the triumphs and tribulations of his inspiring journey to success. Marked by adversity, unwavering perseverance, and invaluable mentorship, Coach Kolade holds nothing back as he recounts his path to glory.
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| Kolade Micheal and his players |
When asked about his remarkable triumphs, Kolade's response was characteristically concise yet profoundly impactful: "All I know is, impossible is nothing." Echoing the iconic words of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, who inspired Adidas' legendary slogan in 1974, Kolade has become the living embodiment of this fearless philosophy, a modern-day David slaying Goliaths on the sports field.
As Kolade reflected on the moment of triumph, he revealed the overwhelming emotions that flooded him: "Even when I heard the final whistle, I didn't even know what exactly to do,” suspended in a state of euphoric paralysis. The sheer magnitude of his achievement had left him momentarily stunned, yet ecstatic, basking in the glory of his hard-won success. Who would dare argue?
Overwhelmed by emotion, Michael described the moment as "very different" and "overwhelming" he admitted. Surrounded by his family—including his parents and younger brother, who played on his Under-15 team—and school officials, Michael was lost for words. "I was full of happiness, overwhelmed with joy," he beamed. The journey to victory was long, but Michael's pride and emotion were palpable. "At the end, it's all worth it," he concluded, basking in the glory of his team's remarkable achievement.
Coach Kolade is a fighter who never gives up on his dreams despite all battles. From quitting playing football due to health reasons to little support from his local football council, and from humble beginnings as a staff member to taking on the coaching role, he emerged as a true champion.
“I was a football player then. Had health issues, a chest issue. I was feeling chest pain every time. So, I just had to stop; I just had to stop doing what I really love.“ Back in 2022, I joined the local government football team to compete in the Under-15 tournament. Initially, my role was limited as an assistant, mainly handling substitutions. Unfortunately, our journey ended in the quarterfinals that year," he narrated.
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| Coach Kolade and his friend-Bentula |
With a beautiful smile, he reminisced about how he met a friend and co-champion named "Bentula". This chance encounter occurred after he had hung up his boots, unsure of his next move in the football world.
“My health issues hindered me. I didn't want to abandon football, so I sought an alternative related to the sport. I was feeling down; that's when I got to meet my brother, Bentula, and we started working together. Bentula said, 'Okay, since there's no under-13 or under-15 team in the entire Oye Local Government, we'll gather boys for matches and train with them.’ I had no choice.”
“There wasn't a strong team, we had to start from scratch. We began with players like Salahudeen Basit, who trained at Phoenix ASC on Saturdays, and Posi Abiodun and Ayoola Ayobami. During the week, they trained with us. Gradually, we developed. Our first match was against Phoenix ASC on January 29, 2022.”.
The Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup is one with lots of euphoric moments for the coach and his team. He recounted his favourite moments of the competition, which include the quarter final penalty shootout against Emure Local Government, where he had to sub in the second-choice goalkeeper as the shootout was approaching. A situation that is similar to the Netherlands’ 2014 World Cup quarterfinal triumph against Costa Rica when Tim Krul was subbed on to replace Jasper Cillessen by the legendary Louis Van Gaal.
“It was the match against Emure, and the goals were not coming, which means we had to settle for penalties. I decided to sub off our first-choice goalkeeper, Vincent, for Fiyin, who went on to save two penalties that sent us to the semis. The funniest thing is that Fiyin was our first choice keeper before the competition, and it was the same Fiyin that brought Vincent to the team. I always felt somehow about this development, but I encouraged Fiyin to not think about him being displaced by Vincent but to continue to work hard and his time will come. Of course it came, and he proved himself in the shootout. That moment is so personal to me.”
On his playing style, Coach Kolade explained that he wants to play with the ball every time and effectively rotate his team to make everyone ready.
"My approach is simple," Coach Kolade emphasized. "My team must concede very few goals. To achieve this, I focus on defensive drills in training, ensuring every player can defend." This defensive-minded approach has been instrumental in Coach Kolade's success. But how does he communicate this philosophy to his young players?
"I emphasize that everyone is a defender," Coach Kolade explained. "Attack and defence are equally important. I rotate players to develop versatility. My wingers are encouraged to hold possession, drive into the box, and create scoring opportunities."
Coach Kolade's strategy has yielded impressive results. In the recent competition, his team scored seven goals, including three penalties earned by his wingers. "The drills we do in training paid off," Coach Kolade noted. "In the final, a winger drove into the box, executing exactly what I taught him, and got fouled. This philosophy has been instrumental in our success."
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| Coach Kolade and his family |
Unlike most African households, Coach Kolade had it easy to gain the support of his parents, as they are in love with what he’s doing. He explained to us how emotional he was having his family behind him while the final whistle that confirmed his team’s victory sounded in the Oluyemi Kayode stadium, Ado Ekiti. “I didn’t face any opposition from my parents because my parents really love what I’m doing. Starting from my father to my youngest siblings, they were there in the stadium to support me and my younger brother, who’s also on the team. Trust me, it was a moment of pride for me and my family.” He said, smiling ear to ear.
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| Coach Kolade in action during the VC Cup |
Coach Kolade is a student of human kinetics at the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science, and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti. He spoke about how he was able to merge the two worlds together, appreciating the tremendous support of his head of department and deputy vice chancellor, and how he was able to change departments easily.“I gained admission to study computer science at Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, but my deep interest in coaching made me make up my mind to change to human kinetics, where I can learn more about the physical aspect of the game. My head of department, Dr. Peter Ajayi, and my mentor, Coach Bolarinwa Idris, stepped in and took it upon themselves to explain to my dad the reason behind my change, who in turn agreed without hesitation. Whenever there’s a need to leave school, I make sure I seek the indulgence of the school authorities, and I’ve gotten their unwavering approval and support. I’m really grateful for that. I also thank Professor Victor Adeoluwa, the Vice Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, for sponsoring the BOUESTI Champions League Cup, also known as the VC Cup, because this competition is one of those things that got me prepared for this role. Then, after my school, I want to go for my NIS program. Then, go further in football coaching.”
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| Coach Kolade and Head Coach Greenlock FC Coach Bolarinwa Idris |
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| Coach Kolade and former Ekiti State FA, Chairman, Bayo Olanlege |
When asked about his coaching inspirations, Kolade highlighted the significant impact of Coach Bolarinwa Idris, his mentor. "Coach Bolarinwa Idris has been instrumental in shaping my coaching career," Kolade acknowledged.Kolade also drew inspiration from esteemed coaches, notably Remo Stars' Coach Daniel Ogunmodede, affectionately known as Ijaball. "I really love his approach to the game," Kolade admitted. Moreover, Kolade expressed profound gratitude to Bayo Olanlege, former Ekiti State FA Chairman, for his transformative support. "Bayo Olanlege may not be a coach, but he's more than that to me," Kolade emphasized. "He opened doors for young coaches like myself, providing opportunities that have been invaluable to our growth."
This mentorship, coupled with Kolade's unwavering dedication, earned him the coveted Coach of the Tournament award—a fitting culmination to his historic double victory.
For years, the Professor Akin Oyebode Competition has served as a launchpad for young football talents, propelling them to represent the national team at the age-grade level. With the emergence of young coaches like Kolade, the competition is now poised to unearth not only talented players but also a promising young coach.
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| Coach Kolade, Bentula and Oye LG female team. |
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| Coach Kolade And His Oye LG Male Team Celebrating |
When asked about the competition's impact on youth football, Coach Kolade emphasized, "Competitions like Professor Akin Oyebode play a crucial role in promoting youth football, particularly in my local government. They've inspired players from neighbouring towns to train with us in Oye, even if it's just once or twice a week."
Previously, many young players lacked regular training opportunities, only being called upon when the senior team played. Now, they're eager to train and prepare for the next competition. Coach Kolade noted, "This enthusiasm will give them value and respect in their towns, driving development in my community and beyond."
As the competition concluded, Coach Kolade looked to the future. "The young players are already mentally preparing for next year's edition. With continued support, we'll discover and nurture more talented youngsters into future champions."
