Dino SC President stops by in Belgium, checks on former player, Ogonna Hyacinth at Westerlo

 

Chief Samuel Columbus, a prominent figure in Nigerian football and President of Dino SC, recently visited Belgian Jupiler Pro League side Westerlo Football Club. 

The purpose of his trip was to check on former Dino Sporting Club player, Ogonna Hyacinth, who joined Westerlo during the summer transfer window.

Columbus, who is the founder of the well-regarded Dino Sporting Club, also held discussions with Westerlo's coaching staff and management to further strengthen the partnership between the two entities. 

This collaboration focuses on the development and progress of players who have transitioned from his academy to European clubs.

Known for nurturing young talents, Dino Sporting Club has facilitated the transfer of several promising Nigerian players abroad, including Stephen Ende, Timilehin Adekunle, and Blessing Edet.

The academy is widely regarded as one of the top football development centers in Nigeria, producing a steady stream of talent for both domestic and international clubs.

Columbus remains committed to ensuring the growth and success of the players who have graduated from his academy to pursue their professional careers in Europe.

Meet Hyacinth Ogonna, talented footballer whose Messi's arrival at Barcelona inspired him to strive for greatness

By Wale Mustapha

For Hyacinth Ogonna, playing football remains his motivation, source of joy and avenue to become great. 

The enterprising young forward is fast becoming one of the talented players penciled for greatness in a foreseeable future. 

He arrived at Dino Sporting Club in 2017 as a relatively unknown player but quickly became the face of the fast rising youth team in Nigeria.

Ogonna recently signed a three year deal with Belgian club side, Westerlo FC to continue his development as a footballer. 

In this exclusive interview with OnwardNews24, Ogonna talked about his football journey so far, highest moments in football and source of motivation to strive for more. 

Q: What inspired you to start playing football? 

Ogonna: I started playing football at a very young age, playing football makes me happy and I enjoyed it, so I said that I will be a professional footballer, it’s what I love doing the most.

Q: Is there a coach or athlete that you look up to as a role model and why?

Ogonna: It's Lionel Messi. His story of arrival in Barcelona always motivates me. It taught me that when they doubt you prove them wrong with your best performance always. 

Q: What do you believe is the greatest challenge most athletes are facing today?

Ogonna: My perspective I think is consistency.

Q: What are your highest moments in the colors of Dino SC?

Ogonna: My highest moments in the colors of Dino SC was when we won the TCC Cup. It was a moment of greatness being able to be among the players to win a trophy for the club. It's amazing moments for me. 

Q: How much has playing in Dino influence your career and as a person?

Ogonna: Dino SC played a very big role in my life, on and off the pitch, it's helped shape my attitude, development, exposure, experience and so on, I was guided.

Dino SC is a family to me and a big thanks to Dino family.

Q: Tell us about the person, Chief Samuel Columbus and who he is to you?

Ogonna: Chief Samuel Ali Columbus is like a father to me. 

I’m really thankful to him for believing in me even when there were critics, he only saw the light in me and also showed and guided me in the right path to success. 

He treats and loves me like a son and I’m grateful to him because he's a Godsent to me.

Q: What are the preparations you think Dino has given you to be a champion?

Ogonna: I learned that to be a champion you must have a good attitude, be hard working and dedicated, be the best in what you love to do best, be exceptional, always be ready.

If you believe you can achieve anything you put your mind to it. 

Q: What are your dreams in football?

Ogonna: To play for the best teams in the world, win the world's best player, win a champions league trophy, win the World Cup with my country Nigeria, to be recognized as one of the greatest footballers of all time. 

Q: Have you set any target for yourself over there in Belgium?

Ogonna: Yes I have set my target and I believe I will achieve them.

Hyacinth Ogonna : Dino SC forward completes switch to Belgian side, Westerlo FC

Highly rated Nigeria youngster, Hyacinth Ogonna has been announced as a new player of Belgian top division side, KSV Westerlo after completing his movement from Dino Sporting Club.

The talented midfielder has signed a three year contract with an option for an additional year.

Ogonna's move marks the conclusion of an immensely successful period at Dino Sporting Club, where he has been a key player since joining as a young prospect. 

Known for his sharp instincts in front of goal, exceptional vision, and versatility, Ogonna has consistently demonstrated a remarkable work ethic and adaptability across various roles on the pitch.

During his time with Dino SC, Ogonna played a crucial role in establishing the club as a formidable force in the Creative League Championship. His contributions helped the team secure three runner-up finishes and achieve a historic maiden Cup victory in a memorable campaign.

Last season, Ogonna's impact extended beyond domestic competitions, as he played a significant part in guiding the team to the quarter-finals of the prestigious Vierragio Cup in Italy.

"Coaching Ogonna Hyacinth has been a privilege. From the moment he stepped onto the pitch as a young talent, it was clear he had something special. His drive, dedication, and commitment to improving every day have made him not just a standout player, but also a leader within our young squad.

Ogonna's versatility, intelligence on the ball, and relentless work ethic have been instrumental in our successes over the years. He has always been willing to learn, adapt, and take on challenges, which is why he has grown into the exceptional player he is today." Coach Godwin Gibson said.

Club Chairman Samuel Columbus expressed his gratitude and best wishes for Ogonna's future, stating: "Ogonna has been a pleasure to work with from the moment he joined Dino Sporting Club. 

"His attitude and commitment have been exemplary, which is reflected in his development and success on the field. The goals he scored and the trophies he helped us win speak volumes about his winning mentality. We are proud of the player he has become and look forward to seeing him continue to flourish in his career."

"He arrived at the club as a young talent, and we are proud of the progress he has made with us. He is undoubtedly one of the brightest talents in the game today."

Everyone at Dino Sporting Club extends their heartfelt best wishes to Ogonna Hyacinth as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his career.

By Wale Mustapha