Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-03-20 09:39:49
Awa Jeng is a name synonymous with sports versatility and success in The Gambia. Graduating from Banjul’s Albion Primary School, she quickly made a name for herself as a track and field athlete before transitioning seamlessly into the world of basketball at Saint Joseph’s basketball team.
As a point guard, Awa Jeng quickly rose to stardom, impressing not only her peers but also rivals from both The Gambia and Senegal with her talent and skill on the court. She became a key player for the national basketball association league, leading the Saints Basketball Club to victory in multiple championships.
Known for her exceptional ball handling skills and lightning-fast speed, Awa Jeng was instrumental in securing the only Gambian victory in the Senegambian Confederations Cup in 1984. Her standout performance in that tournament earned her the MVP award, solidifying her reputation as a star player in the region.
In addition to her basketball prowess, Awa Jeng excelled in athletics, competing in various events including the sprints (100 meters, 200 meters), 4×100 relay, high jump, and long jump. She consistently broke national records and made history as the first Gambian girl to win medals at the Zone Two Junior track and field championship held in The Gambia in 1985.
Despite the lack of opportunities for female soccer players in The Gambia during the 1980s, Awa Jeng still managed to shine in the sport, showcasing her talent and passion for athletics in any arena she entered.
Her legacy as the greatest female athlete in Gambian history remains intact, and her impact on the sports scene in the country continues to be felt to this day. Awa Jeng’s remarkable journey from track and field to basketball and beyond serves as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes, showcasing the power of determination, talent, and dedication in achieving success in the world of sports.
Read the original article on The Standard
