Arsenal seems to be unstoppable at the moment as hardly a day is going by without them winning.
Tuks's Chinedu Okolo prides himself as the one who has brought a change to the "Gunners" fortunes. Diehard football fans might find this hard to believe. What they, however, should realise is that fantasy can become a reality in these uncertain times. All you got to do is believe and be prepared to put in the hours.
Okolo is a self-acclaimed football fanatic. There is nothing he likes more than heading the ball into the back of the net. This skill of his has helped Tuks win many a game. Due to the coronavirus pandemic it has been a while since he was able to do so. It is killing him.
"As football players, we are used to playing in heavy rain, extreme heat, and windy conditions. Near the only time, we won't take to the field is when there is lightning. Now we are being stopped by an invisible virus.
"It is tough. Especially if you are playing for a university team and the Varsity Tournament is the only opportunity to showcase your talents. Maybe somehow we might still get to play.
"I fully understand why we need to be in lockdown. Human lives do matter. It would be foolish to take unnecessary risks. The problem I face is that football has become so part of my life over the years. At Tuks, we often train up to five hours a day. Suddenly I got all these extra hours and nothing to do.
"Our coaches have given us some strengthing exercises to do, but it is not the same as playing football. The one good thing that came out of this is that I am up to date with my engineering studies."
Okolo chooses not to watch videos of past games on television. It frustrates him. Every time he sees football images flickering on the television screen, he gets the urge to play himself. The only way he can stop his longing is to play Fifa online with his brother. That is how Arsenal's winning streak started.
"Arsenal is my team. It is a thrill to be able to mastermind their victories."
According to Okolo, being in lockdown is not all bad.
"One of the most common complaints we all have is not having enough time to do things we want. Now is the time to work on those ideas which we often think could change the world. Would it not be great if only one idea does work out and someone can make a difference?"
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