MONROVIA – Following months of intensive preparation, a 48-member delegation from the Liberia Kickball Federation (LKF) has departed for neighboring Sierra Leone to launch an internationalization campaign for the country’s traditional sport.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
The delegation, led by LKF President Emmanuel Surprise Whea, left Monrovia on Wednesday, February 4, 2026.
Officials described the move as a “historic step” toward expanding the reach of kickball beyond Liberia’s borders and into the Mano River Union sub-region.
The 48-person team includes 26 players, six technical staff members, 12 officials, and four umpires.
The delegation arrived in Freetown on Wednesday evening. Their itinerary includes a parade and an official acceptance program, followed by an exhibition match on Thursday, February 5. From Freetown, the team is expected to travel to Bo City for further promotional activities.
As part of the initiative, a team of LKF instructors will remain in Freetown to conduct the first-ever “Training of Trainers” (TOT) workshop. The program is designed to equip Physical and Health Education teachers with the technical skills required to introduce and manage kickball programs in Sierra Leonean schools.
In Bo City, a second TOT workshop will be held alongside exhibition matches intended to demonstrate the fundamentals of the game.
The delegation is scheduled to rest on Friday, February 6, before concluding their engagement with Sierra Leonean counterparts on Saturday, February 7.
Speaking to FrontPage Africa prior to their departure, LKF President Emmanuel Surprise Whea lauded stakeholders and the government for their support.
“By supporting kickball, you support women’s education, empowerment, and development,” Whea said. “Supporting kickball is a patriotic responsibility. This is our national pride, and we must take it to the rest of the world. Going to Sierra Leone is the beginning of those one million steps.”
While expressing gratitude to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Whea noted that increased financial investment is still needed for a sport that serves as a primary platform for female athletes in Liberia.
The delegation is expected to return to Liberia on Sunday, February 8.
