Intra-Governmental Tournament Showcases Excellence in Public Sector Sportsmanship as LiMA and NLA Clinch the Championship Titles A commentary by Public Affairs

The vibrant echoes of teamwork, resilience, and national pride rang loud across the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex as the 2025 Intra-Governmental Tournament reached a thrilling climax in its football and kickball categories. Since its kickoff on April 17, 2025, the tournament has brought together 59 government ministries, agencies, and commissions, transforming the SKD grounds into a spirited arena of camaraderie and healthy competition.

On Friday, July 11, 2025, the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) cemented its supremacy in the football category with a hard-fought victory in the grand finals. The “Shipping Boys” edged past a formidable Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) side with a narrow 1-0 win, defending the title they clinched in the previous edition. Their disciplined gameplay, tactical brilliance, and unwavering determination throughout the tournament culminated in their crowning moment as champions, a proud repeat of their winning legacy.

While in the kickball category, the National Lottery Authority (NLA) emerged as the undisputed champions, demonstrating remarkable grit and sportsmanship when they clinched the title from the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MYS) in a thrilling penalty shootout. After trailing by three home runs, NLA rallied impressively to level the match before sealing the win during the tie-breaking shootout, much to the excitement of their supporters. Their journey to the top was marked by thrilling comebacks and energetic displays that captured the admiration of spectators and fellow competitors alike.

Then comes the organizer of the tournament, The Ministry of Youth and Sports, in fierce battle, also left an impressive mark on the tournament, claiming third place in the football category after a compelling performance in the match when they defeated the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs 2-1 with a commanding performance.  Their tenacity and team spirit were evident throughout the campaign, affirming their central role not only as organizers but as active, competitive participants.

Meanwhile, in the kickball bracket, the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) secured a commendable third-place finish when they beat the Judiciary in a 3-2 home run, showcasing agility and tactical finesse in a tightly contested encounter.

As the tournament nears its final curtain, excitement continues to build for the basketball grand finals, scheduled to take place on Friday, July 15, 2025, at the SKD Sports Complex Gymnasium. The much-anticipated clash will see LiMA, already football champions, take on a dynamic NASSCORP side for the basketball crown. The showdown promises to be a spectacular display of athleticism, coordination, and strategic brilliance.

The 2025 edition of the Intra-Governmental Tournament has not only provided a platform for recreation and physical fitness but has also reignited inter-agency solidarity and a renewed spirit of unity within the public sector. As the final whistle approaches, the tournament stands as a shining example of how sport can foster national cohesion, mutual respect, and excellence across all levels of government.