By Etienne Mainimo Etienne Mengnjo
The Striking Eagles of the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé gathered Saturday, Jan. 31, for a farewell match honoring Sene Bamba, whose family has departed for a new Peace Corps Mission in Tanzania.
The match that took place at the team’s regular training grounds, febe Yaoundé, featured a split-squad format:Team A, representing Sene Bamba, faced off against Team B, representing his wife, Nickie Sene (former Peace Corps Director). In a closely contested match, Team A, led by captain Epie Michael, emerged victorious with a score of 8-5 against Team B, captained by Nuyega Doris. The ceremonial kickoff to start the proceedings was performed by former Vice President, Mbang Ernest.
The match served as more than a sporting event; it was a tribute to the man credited with founding the “Eaglets,” the club’s youth affiliate at the US Embassy Yaoundé. Teammates and colleagues praised Bamba for his dual commitment to professional excellence at the embassy and his leadership in the local sporting community.
“From your family to the world, Cameroon and the Embassy Yaoundé have overwhelmingly enjoyed your presence,” one member noted in a written tribute. “Bamba has headed the family through numerous sporting activities with outstanding professionalism and deep social involvement.” said Tala Polycarp.
Teammate Chris Nuh reflected on the family’s impact, noting that the Senes’ devotion was a cornerstone of the club’s culture.
“I enjoyed seeing Bamba play his last match at the Military Stadium in Yaoundé,” Nuh said. “Coming out from an injury, he was frustrated at times when plays didn’t go his way, but Nickie Sene and the kids were always there to cheer him on. We thank him for his devotion to the Striking Eagles and the creation of the Eaglets.”
Colleagues also highlighted Bamba’s oratorical skills, describing him as a “motivational speaker” who embodied the “RICE” values (Respect, Integrity, Courage, and Excellence) promoted by the U.S. Ambassador. They described him as a man of “timber and caliber” who captivated audiences whenever he spoke.
Visibly moved by the accolades, Bamba addressed the group, expressing his gratitude for the years of camaraderie in US Mission, Cameroon.
“Words can’t hardly capture how I feel right now,” Bamba said. “Yet I’m not surprised; you’ve always been a wonderful group that knows how to take care of your own. It has been a true honor and privilege to belong to such a committed, spirited, and brotherly community.”
Bamba pledging his lifelong loyalty to the club said, “I’ll always be a Striking Eagle at heart. Forever Big and Strong.”
