Esther Poni’s powerful message of gratitude and hope captures the significance of South Sudan’s new Women’s Premier League
A goal celebration became a message to an entire generation when Yei Joint Stars midfielder Esther Poni displayed a handwritten message on a plaster wrapped around both hands during the opening match of the inaugural South Sudan Women’s Premier League.
As Yei Joint Stars celebrated their opening goal against Juba Queens at Juba National Stadium on Saturday evening, Poni turned towards Sports Hunter South Sudan photographer Emmanuel Patrick Laku and revealed the message:
“Thank You FIFA & SSFF for investing in South Sudan Women Premier League. Young Girls, the pitch is waiting for you.”
It was a simple gesture, but one that carried a much bigger meaning.
The launch of the Women’s Premier League has created a new competitive platform for female footballers across South Sudan, providing young girls with an opportunity to see a future in the sport and a pathway to compete at the highest domestic level.
Poni’s message also recognised the investment of FIFA and the South Sudan Football Federation in creating the competition and expanding opportunities for women’s football.
On the pitch, Yei Joint Stars — the reigning South Sudan Cup women’s champions — went on to defeat Juba Queens 4-1 in the historic opening fixture.
But amid the goals and celebrations, Poni’s message offered perhaps the clearest picture of what the new league is ultimately about.
Creating opportunities for the next generation.
For the young girls watching from the stands, the message was simple:
The pitch is waiting for you. 🇸🇸⚽
Photo by Emmanuel Patrick Laku | Sports Hunter South Sudan
