Ini Umotong receives award at Birmingham Youth Sports Academy

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Trailblazer, role model, and former Nigerian international footballer Ini Umotong was celebrated at this year’s Birmingham Youth Sports Academy (BYSA) Annual Player Awards, which took place at the conferencing suites of Birmingham City Football Club.

The event honored remarkable achievements in grassroots football across various age groups, with Umotong being acknowledged for her significant contributions to the growth of women’s football.

At only 31 years old, Umotong’s journey from the streets of Birmingham to the international arena has motivated a generation of young female athletes.

Originally from Calabar, Nigeria, she moved to Birmingham as a young child and began her football journey at the age of five. Her early enthusiasm and innate talent quickly attracted the attention of scouts, leading to her initial professional experience with Birmingham City FC.

Throughout her illustrious career, Ini represented clubs including Portsmouth United, Oxford United, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Sweden’s Växjö DFF, before finishing her playing career with Lewes FC Women.

She also proudly wore the Super Falcons jersey, representing Nigeria on the global stage and becoming a symbol of success for African women in football.

In a touching tribute, BYSA Chairman Professor Paul Cadman commended her as a “living inspiration whose commitment to female football has opened doors for countless girls and women to chase their aspirations in the sport.” As he presented her award, the audience erupted in applause for a career that has shattered barriers and overcome challenges.

The glamorous awards evening gathered over 180 guests, including Blues CEO Jeremy Dale and Lord Mayor of Birmingham Ken Wood. The attendees comprised key community stakeholders and dedicated supporters of youth sports development. Sponsors such as Safaraz Ali of the Pathway Group, Imdad Hussain of IQ Coaches, and Professor Gino Martini, CEO of PHTA (Precision Health Technologies Accelerator), were present to show their support for the celebration.