Published: December 12, 2025
With the official opening ceremony set for the southeastern city of Harper, the 2025–26 National County Sports Meet will introduce a new competitive structure that officials say will create more opportunities and excitement among participating counties.
In an interview with the PUNCHFM recently, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister for Sports, Andy Quamie confirmed that the quarter final stage of the tournament will be played in a group format instead of the traditional knockout system. Quamie said the decision aims to expand opportunities for athletes and increase meaningful competition. “Most times, counties qualify for the quarterfinal and come to Monrovia to play just one game. If the county is defeated, they go home,” Quamie said. “This year, we decided that the eight teams that make the quarterfinals will be placed into two groups. This will allow counties to play three extra games.”
When asked whether the change had the consensus of the county sports steering committee chairpersons, Quamie said counties were supportive of the new format, noting that this is not the first time a group stage has been used. He dismissed claims that the new structure was designed to generate more revenue for the ministry or impose additional financial burdens on county authorities, who must fund appearance fees for athletes.
Under the new system, the eight quarter-finalists could play up to six matches, and possibly seven or eight if they advance to the semifinal and final. The tournament, themed “Inclusive Development Through Sports,” kicks off December 13, 2025, in Harper, Maryland County. Maryland County—champions in 1956 and 2017 will host a southeastern showdown in Group A, which includes River Gee, River Cess and Grand Kru counties.
The qualifying series is expected to highlight the region’s athletic talent and promote regional pride. Maryland County head coach Wattala Hne Moore will have a strengthened squad following the arrivals of FC Fassell forward Delton Kollie and striker H. Dan Weah.
County leadership, under Superintendent Henry B. Cole, has also reaffirmed full support for the team, emphasizing unity, preparation and community involvement. “Our goal is clear: to propel Maryland County teams toward championship excellence and lasting glory that will resonate across Liberia,” Superintendent Cole said. He also expressed appreciation for the sports leadership, steering committee, players, coaches and donors who have contributed to the county’s preparations.
Defending champions Lofa County—currently without a head coach following the arrest and incarceration of coach Kollie Korvy on drug-related allegations—will travel to Buchanan, where they will face hosts Grand Bassa County, Grand Gedeh County and Grand Cape Mount County in Group C.
Six-times champions Nimba County will host Bomi, Sinoe and Margibi counties in Group B. Matches will be played at Gompa Stadium in Ganta, Nimba County.
With a new football field under construction, Gbarpolu County will compete in Group D alongside Bong County and Montserrado County.
This year’s County Meet will feature football, basketball, and kickball. Track and field, volleyball and women’s football and everal other sports remain excluded.
Full Groupings:
Group A: Maryland County • River Cess County • Grand Kru County • River Gee County; Group B: Nimba County • Bomi County • Sinoe County • Margibi County; Group C: Grand Bassa County • Lofa County • Grand Gedeh County • Grand Cape Mount County and Group D: Gbarpolu County • Bong County • Montserrado County.
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