Former Shooting Stars manager Edith Agoye has embarked on a bold new chapter in his coaching career, signing with amateur side Grassrunners FC with a vision to turn the modest club into one of Nigeria’s most formidable football forces.

Speaking after the announcement, Agoye outlined his motivation for what many see as an unconventional move for an experienced coach.

“This transition from a professional role to an amateur one, along with the length of the contract, clearly indicates that I am seeking a platform to genuinely grow, express myself, and showcase my capabilities,” Agoye said. “I truly appreciate the opportunity that Grassrunners FC has offered. It’s a chance for me to contribute to the evolution of Nigerian football by nurturing exceptional talent and guiding them to stardom—something that is central to my mission.”

The former Nigerian international stressed that his decision wasn’t about stepping back but rather about building something meaningful from the ground up.

“I’m thrilled about this incredible chance; I’ve found not just a place to belong, but an adventure and a project that aligns perfectly with my coaching aspirations,” he added. “I’m fully prepared to invest my all into elevating Grassrunners FC to a top club within Nigeria over the next few years, with a vision of competing in the premier league in two years and fostering young talents to propel Nigerian football forward.”

Agoye, who earned a reputation for developing players at Shooting Stars, believes that engaging with football at its grassroots level is not just a personal challenge but a national service.

“Engaging at the grassroots level can serve as a springboard to exciting coaching prospects with the National Under-17 and Under-20 teams. It’s like planting seeds for the future; nurturing young talent today could lead to the chance to shape the stars of tomorrow on a national stage!”

Grassrunners FC, though relatively unknown on the wider football scene, has ambitions to rise through the ranks of Nigerian football. Agoye’s appointment signals a shift in direction for the club, with hopes that his experience and vision can lay the foundation for future success.

For Nigerian football fans, this move could mark the beginning of an inspiring story—one where a veteran coach helps transform raw grassroots talent into the country’s next generation of stars