Mohamed Kallon Stresses Importance of Interpersonal Skills and Humility to Sierra Leone Football Players

Newly appointed Head Coach Mohamed Kallon addressed Sierra Leone’s football players, sharing his extensive football experience and stressing the importance of interpersonal skills in gaining acceptance and achieving success within a team.

Kallon encouraged his players to show self-respect and maintain humility toward team officials and fellow players when given opportunities.

He reflected on his time with Inter Milan, drawing from his experience in Europe. “I wasn’t the best among those trying out, but my respect, humility, and eagerness to learn opened doors for me,” he revealed.

Kallon highlighted that evaluations of players often extend beyond mere technical abilities or on-field performances, focusing instead on their interactions and respect for teammates. “From the first whistle, your response to your teammates’ instructions will be the first point of assessment,” Kallon stated.

“That will determine how others judge you.” He expressed concern about players who, upon joining a new team, fail to pay attention to details, show disrespect, and disregard instructions from their peers.

Kallon illustrated his point with the experiences of skilled players who faced rejection not for their lack of talent but due to negative behavior. “They don’t buy a player based solely on performance or ability. Most times, players are accepted into a team based on human connections: how you speak, respond, and interact with your teammates. Being respectful and humble is crucial,” he added.

The legendary coach invoked the names of two accomplished players, Samadiya and Strassers, who flourished in their careers after moving to Europe. “When they arrived, they may not have been fully prepared. However, their intelligence, humility, and respect paved the way for their success,” Kallon recalled.

In closing, Kallon advised players who find themselves in foreign lands not to view football solely as a showcase of individual talent. “Beings humble will attract opportunities,” he stressed. “When you exhibit humility, people are willing to help you. But if you act like you know it all, no one will want to offer their assistance.”Kallon’s heartfelt message resonated deeply, serving as a reminder to the next generation of Sierra Leonean footballers that success is grounded in character, teamwork, and mutual respect.