By Fatmata Binta Bah
The story of Eastern Real Friends FC is a testament to the enduring power of passion, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. Founded in the 2002/03 season, this club has embarked on a remarkable journey, climbing the ranks of Sierra Leonean football with a steady and determined stride.
Initially operating as a non-divisional club, Real Friends FC, as they were then known, faced a myriad of challenges. From self-management to navigating the financial constraints that often plague grassroots football, the team demonstrated an early resilience that would define their trajectory.
“Our journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, Jayah Koker, a founding member and the club’s current Public Relations Officer (PRO). “As a junior team, we often wore multiple hats – players, coaches, and even administrators. We learned to rely on each other, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility.”
Despite these early hurdles, the team consistently achieved remarkable success at the junior level, earning widespread recognition and admiration within the eastern region of Sierra Leone.
This early success laid the foundation for their subsequent ascent, culminating in their recent promotion to the prestigious Division One league.
“This promotion is a significant milestone for our club,” Koker emphasized. “It marks a crucial step towards our ultimate goal: reaching the pinnacle of Sierra Leonean football by securing a place in the Sierra Leone Premier League.”
The club’s commitment to nurturing young talent has yielded impressive results. Eastern Real Friends FC has produced a remarkable number of talented footballers, some of whom are now pursuing successful professional careers abroad. Notably, the current head coach of SLFA (Sierra Leone Football Academy) is a proud alumnus of the club’s youth system, a testament to the quality of player development within the club.
“Our fans have been the unwavering pillars of our success,” Koker acknowledged. Their passionate support, both on and off the field, has been instrumental in driving us forward. Their cheers have echoed through victories, and their encouragement has lifted our spirits during challenging times.
While acknowledging the invaluable support of their loyal fanbase, the club also recognizes the ongoing need for sustainable financial support. “We have traditionally relied heavily on contributions from former players who now serve as team executives,” Koker explained. “However, as we continue to grow and aspire to greater heights, we are actively seeking partnerships with sponsors who share our vision for the future of Eastern Real Friends FC.”
The club’s qualification to Division One presents a unique opportunity for growth and development. “We urge our fans and potential sponsors to continue believing in us,” Koker stated. “This is an ideal time for investment, and we assure potential partners that their support will not only contribute to the success of our club but also to the development of football within our region.”
Known for their attractive and attacking style of play, Eastern Real Friends FC has earned a reputation for producing exciting and entertaining football.
“Go to Kenema and ask any football enthusiast about Eastern Real Friends FC,” Koker declared with pride, “and they’ll tell you we are a team that plays beautiful, attacking football. We strive to not only win but also to entertain our fans with skilful play and a commitment to attacking football.
The club maintains an active online presence through their official Facebook page (Eastern Real Friends FC) and a dedicated WhatsApp group, providing fans with updates, news, and opportunities to engage with the club.
Currently, the team is diligently preparing for the upcoming Eastern Division One League, with their sights firmly set on securing a coveted place in the playoffs and ultimately, a place in the Sierra Leone Premier state League.
Eastern Real Friends FC stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring footballers in the region, demonstrating that with dedication, perseverance and a strong community spirit, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized.