The Angel Salt Sports Foundation is set to host the 5th edition of the Wakapass Christmas Football Party, with a record 64 football academies from Lagos and Ogun State participating. The annual event brings together young male and female footballers to celebrate the festive season through sport, camaraderie, and community.
According to the founder, Angel Salt, who also leads F8BALLERS AFRICA Football Academy in Lagos, the initiative was inspired by a desire to share the joy of Christmas with underprivileged young players.
“Five years ago, I asked a few players how they celebrated Christmas, and they replied, ‘Who celebrates Christmas?’ That really touched me. I decided that every year we would organize this event to give young footballers the opportunity to enjoy the festive season through a football party. We started with just a few teams, but this year the number has grown to 64. This shows the impact the event has made in the lives of young players who may not otherwise experience the joy of Christmas. We also call on individuals and brands that love to make a difference to join us this year,” he said.
The festivities will kick off with a Press Conference and Draws on Friday, December 19, at the Conference Hall of the National Institute for Sports, Lagos, powered by the Angel Salt Sports Development Foundation.
A highlight of the program will be the “Play for the Future” novelty match between Angel Salt All Stars and coaches of the participating teams on Sunday, December 21. Interested individuals are encouraged to get involved.
The main event, featuring football matches, parties, and feasting, will take place at the Legacy Pitch of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, on December 26 and 27.
Angel Salt’s passion for player development led to the establishment of F8BALLERS AFRICA Football Academy in 2018, designed to prepare young footballers for stardom. The academy nurtures players technically, tactically, psychologically, and socially, while exposing them to global football curricula and off-the-pitch opportunities.
His commitment to raising the standard of grassroots football has also inspired projects such as Wakapass, The Champs Cup, Pass and Pasta: The Big Sunday Game, Tattered Boots, and others—all aimed at empowering young athletes and strengthening the football ecosystem.