Gambian and Stockport County football star inspires Waconians during special visit
Waconians enjoyed an inspiring visit from Stockport County footballer Ibby Touray, who shared his remarkable journey from The Gambia to the world of professional football. Stockport County and national Gambain team player, Ibby spoke passionately about his roots, his career, and the resilience it takes to succeed in professional sport.
The visit was particularly meaningful for CHS, which has had a longstanding relationship with The Gambia since 1998. Over the years, CHS students, staff, and families have raised funds and visited partner schools in Soma, supporting initiatives such as a feeding programme, classroom construction, and vocational training for young people. This December, another group of CHS students will travel to The Gambia to continue this work.
In celebration of Ibby’s visit, Waconians embraced a Gambian-themed non-uniform day, wearing red, blue, and green—the colours of The Gambia’s flag—just ahead of Gambia’s Independence Day on 18th February. Ibby answered students’ questions about life in The Gambia, the culture of the ‘Smiling Coast’ and his hopes for the country. He chatted about his pride at being selected to play for the national side and the African cup of nations and discussed high performing teams with our award winning F1 in School team, emphasisng the importance of consistency and hard work.
Mr John Wilson, CHS Co-curricular Director said: “It was fantastic for our students to hear from Ibby, not just as a professional footballer, at a local club, but as someone with a deep connection to a country that means so much to our school. He took time to answer questions from the students and his presence reinforced our ongoing commitment to our school in The Gambia.
Ahead of the next visit to The Gambia in December, the visit was a reminder of the shared learning that continues to unite CHS and Gambian communities.
For more information about CHS in The Gambia click here.
