How my father's death derailed my American football dreams

American football, like many global sports, has seen Nigerians excel on the field.

From defensive giants like Osi Umenyiora and Adewale Ogunleye to exciting running back Christian Okoye, players with Nigerian heritage have left their mark.

One player with immense potential who could perhaps join these great talents is Adebisi Olatirewa Adetoro, captain of the Abuja-based American football team, the Green Giants.

shattered dreams

But Adebisi's story is one of dreams tragically cut short. In a recent conversation with reporters filled with raw emotion, he spoke about the shocking death of his father, which took away his passion for the sport and forced him to quit the sport at a young age. Adebisi is firmly focused on rebuilding his life and his chances of a return look bleak.

“Right now all I can think about is survival,” he admits. “My future in American football is uncertain. I am grateful for this opportunity to start fresh and I am solely focused on getting my life back on track.”

Born July 26, 1995 into a close-knit family, Adebisi, a 6-foot-3 outside linebacker and defensive end, grew up in a supportive environment.

His father was a former banker who turned to successful farming and livestock ownership after retiring and found joy in his new venture. However, this happiness was shattered in his May 2022.

Insecurity soars across Nigeria Kaduna, and in the midst of this turmoil, Aderogba Adetolo was kidnapped. Although he was eventually released, the trauma proved unbearable. He died shortly thereafter, leaving a gaping hole in Adebisi's life.

“It was excruciating,” Adebisi says, his voice thick with emotion. “Everything lost its luster. We were incredibly close. He was my best friend and the first person I shared everything with. Our bond is deep and irreplaceable. was.”

The events surrounding his father's death and its aftermath had a profound impact on Adebisi's life, especially his once-promising soccer career. Overshadowed by his constant fear for his own safety, he is forced to retreat inside and live a more secluded life, but that is on hold for now.

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Adebisi was a pioneer and was part of the team that brought American football to Kaduna just a few years ago. he, International Pathway Program. But the joy of sports was replaced by a heavy heart.