Category: Sports

Bubendorff, Nanka  win Football gold as Anambra school sports festival ends

Festival

By Chimezie Anaso

Awka, June 8, 2024(NAN) Bubendorff Memorial Grammar School, Onitsha defeated CKC Onitsha 5-4 on penalties to win gold in the U18 male event of Anambra Sports Development Initiative ANSSI) festival for primary and secondary schools in the state.

The thrilling and highly anticipated final held at the Awka Township Stadium on Friday, ended 1-1 a piece in  regulation time with both teams displaying exceptional and promising skills and determination.

Bubendorff Memorial Grammar School opened scoring in the first half but CKC equalised  after the break.

The game was witnessed by Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra.

Earlier, skilful Community School Nanka beat their rivals, Uncle Ralph de Great Academy Mgbakwu 2-0 to clinch the gold in the U14 male football event.

Speaking at the event, Patrick-Estate Onyedum, Chairman of Anambra Sports Development Commission, said that the 2024 edition was a more successful and promising one.

He said the journey started on May 3,  with 756 primary and secondary schools across the 179 communities of the state taking part in 12 sporting events.

According to him, the first edition of ANSSI in 2023 prepared Anambra for a remarkable impact at the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta where they dominated in the 100m , 200m, 4x100m, High Jump, Taekwondo and Karate.

“Anambra was rated the most age compliant team and about five children who excelled at that festival are enjoying academic scholarships in schools in Abuja and Anambra, where they are also undergoing great mentorship.

“We shall support the very talented ones to explore the immense opportunities available in sports for their long term benefits.

“Already, our preparation for this year’s National Youth Games have started and talents discovered from this festival will make up  80 percent of that team,” he said.

Onyedum congratulated participating  schools in the festival, saying they had not only competed for glory, but had bonded and created lifetime memories.

Declaring the festival closed, Soludo commended the students for their zeal to develop themselves and promised that his administration would continue to support the sports sector.

He assured that the 2025  edition would be bigger and better.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

APC/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

NTF committed to promoting gender equality in tennis participation, officiating –President

Tennis

By Aderonke  Ojo

Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) President of Nigeria Tennis Federation (NTF), Ifedayo Akindoju, says the federation is committed to promoting gender equality with regards to the participation and officiating of tennis events in the country.

He made the remarks while declaring a maiden International Tennis Federation’s Advantage All workshop open on Friday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigeria Tennis Umpires Association (NTUA) made history on Friday in Abuja.

This followed the successful hosting of its maiden International Tennis Federation’s Advantage All programme, thus setting the pace for other African countries.

The workshop was organised by the NTF, in conjunction with the International Tennis Federation ( ITF), with no fewer than 20 female tennis officials from across the country in participation.

It aims to further deepen the domestication of the initiative which the country formally signed into in 2021 at the Annual General Meeting of ITF in Glasgow, Scotland.

Akindoju extolled the milestones being recorded by the Officiating Department of the Federation, noting that officiating in Nigeria had advanced beyond  imagination “as ladies in tennis officiating have done so well.

“What we are witnessing here today is another landmark to show that ladies are very interested in sports and in tennis in particular.

“As a Federation, we are promoting gender fairness, gender equality in terms of opportunities and participation, and have put in place a well monitored and guided mechanism to ensure that no body is treated unfairly”, Akindoju said.

Acting Chairman of NTUA, Rose Abu, encouraged the participants to make adequate use of the opportunity to develop and sharpen their officiating knowledge and skills.

Abu thanked the ITF for endorsing the event, and commended the effort and commitment of the President of NTF and the country’s Officiating Manager, Kehinde Ijaola, for making the day a reality.

Gold Badge Chair Umpire and an Advantage All Global Ambassador, Eva Asderaki-Moore led a plethora of virtual international goodwill messages from female tennis Umpires across the world to the participants.

With the theme, Tennis Officiating: Place, Value Of Women In Officiating And Empowerment, the workshop had series of paper presentations on topical issues.

NAN also reports that a minute silence was earlier observed in honour of the immediate past Nigeria’s Advantage All Ambassador and one of the country’s finest tennis officials, late Arinola Isa-Banire who died in July 2023.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

STJ/HA

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Competition

Ibadan, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The shape of the semi-final stage of the ongoing 2024 Oyo State Governor’s Cup male football competition for secondary schools in the state emerged on Friday in Ibadan.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition’s four quarter-final matches were played at two venues, where the semi-finalists emerged.

At the Ikolaba High School Centre, Bishop Philips Academy of Ibadan emerged after a 5-3 win over Bioku Grammar School of Lanlate following extra-time play.

Murtala Adigun’s brace, scored in the 6th and 14th minutes, gave the winners game dominance early in the first half, before Olusegun Gideon halved the deficit in the 24th minute.

Oladitan Joshua restored their two-goal lead 12 minutes into the second half, with goalkeeper Jelil Gbadero making a couple of saves to keep the scoreline at 3-1.

However, goals from Olagoke Mushin 11 minutes later and Babatunde Stephen with four minutes to go brought about a turnaround and pushed the game into extra-time.

Goals from Animashaun Basit two minutes into extra time and Babawale Abeeb just a minute before extra-time ended however ensured there was no upset.

In the other game played later at the same venue, Olanipekun Memorial College of Kishi advanced to the semi-finals after beating Awe High School 5-4 on penalty kicks.

This was following a 3-3 draw after extra-time, with the winners coming back twice to stay in the game.

Emuda Samson gave Awe High School the lead just after they returned from the break, with Muftau Tirimisiyu drawing the winners level about two minutes later from the penalty kick spot.

Salahudeen Mubarak restored the losers’ lead about 10 minutes later, only for Abubakar Idris to draw them level and go on to give them the lead with 13 minutes of play left.

But Oyetayo Ayomide rescued the game for the Awe High School side with about three minutes left through an equaliser, leading to extra-time which failed to produce any goal.

At the Urban Day Secondary School Centre, Bashorun High School beat St. John Catholic School of Isalu in Iseyin 3-1.

Babalola Francis had given St. John a seventh minute lead, but Segun Oyebode drew the winners level eight minutes into the second half.

Goals from Raji David (five minutes into extra-time) and Ayomide James (15 minutes into extra-time) then gave Bashorun High School the win.

In the centre’s other match, Government College of Ibadan beat Baptist Grammar School of Ogbomoso 1-0 through Babalola Abdulganiyu’s 33rd minute goal.

NAN reports that the semi-finals on Saturday will see Bishop Phillips Academy taking on Olanipekun Memorial College at 10 a.m at Urban Day Secondary School, Olaogun in Ibadan.

The other semi-final match will have Bashorun High School taking on Government College Ibadan at the same venue at noon.

The competition’s third-place and final matches have been scheduled for Tuesday at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
OLAL
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(Edited by Olawale Alabi)

2024 Olympics: NWF President assures Weightlifters of support

Support

By Aderonke Ojo

Abuja, June 7, 2024 ( NAN) Ibrahim Abdul, the President of Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), has assured  Weightlifters  that will represent Nigeria at the upcoming  Paris 2024 Olympic Games in France of the federation`s support.

Abdul who stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday Abuja, said preparations were in top gear to get the athletes ready for the games.

According to him, all the necessary support will be given to the weightlifters before and during the games.

“In order to prepare the weightlifters for the Olympics, the federation has commenced its training camp at the Moshood Abiola National stadium Abuja.

“We are also going to attend the African Weightlifting Associations organised camp for all African athletes that qualified for the Olympics Games,“he said.

He said the federation’s goal is to reach the greatest possible success by winning gold medals and placing first in Paris.

 “The athletes will be able to achieve their goals in the Olympics with the training they have received so far,“he said.

He urged corporate organisations to support the Minister of Sports Development, Sen. John Enoh, as he is making all efforts to ensure the athletes succeed in Paris.

“ He is  giving his all; so we need corporate organisations to support him with funding, equipment and even making pledges to inspire and motivate the athletes,“he said.

NAN reports that Rafiatu Lawal (women’s 59 kg) and Joy Eze (women’s 71 kg) would represent the federation at the Olympics.

A total of 88 athletes from Nigeria have qualified for the Olympics Games, others are still in the qualification process before the closing windows.

The 2024 summer Olympic Games is scheduled for July 26 to Aug. 11 in Paris, France.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

STJ /JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

Rehabilitation

By Olanrewaju Akojede

Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The management of Lagos Lawn Tennis Club says it will support the rehabilitation of ace tennis star, Tanya Okpala, as part of its commitment to the welfare of outstanding players.

The management of the foremost Lawn Tennis Club in Nigeria made this known on Friday in a statement by its President, Temitope Abere.

Abere said that the club had decided to support the tennis star, currently undergoing rehabilitation in Anambra.

Abere revealed that the club which is the pioneer recreational club in Africa, has a track record of impacting positively on the lives of distinguished sports personalities, particularly tennis players who made the nation proud.

“As you well know, our club was founded in the year 1895 as a foremost recreational club in the country.

“We have an enviable record for excellence and we are very much committed to creating a conducive atmosphere for the discovery and nurturing of talented players who fly the nation’s flag in international tourneys,” he said.

Abere further revealed that Tanya Okpala’s father was a member of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club which provided a solid platform to stardom.

“When we read that Tanya had fallen on hard times we felt it is part of our corporate responsibility to reach out to the family and support her in the little way we can.

“Our prayer is that Tanya will continue to get good care so that she recovers in good time and continues to do what she loves to do best; play lawn tennis,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tanya Okpala came into the national limelight as a teenage tennis star in the 90s.

She was a regular feature of several grassroots lawn tennis tournaments in the country.

She performed excellently well before traveling out of the country for professional exploits before her recent dilemma.

The low-keyed charity event will take place at Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Lord Rumens Court, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos on June 9. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

KOJE/DOE
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Edited by Dianabasi Effiong

J30 Tennis: Ogunsakin advances to ITF World Tennis Tour round of 16

Tennis

By Aderonke Ojo

Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) Seyi Ogunsakin defeated Yulin Li, a Chinese player 4-6, 7-5 ( Rtd) to reach the  round of 16 at the ongoing ITF World Tennis Tour Junior J30 Abuja  in the male singles category on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Junior International Tennis Federation (ITF) event is a flagship tournament to help junior players gain global rankings.

The tour which started on June 5, is expected to end on Sunday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Ogunsakin was a touch too naive early in the match, which gave Yulin the opportunity to break his service in the first set, 4-6.

Yulin put up an amazing show in the opening set but Ogunsakin used techniques packed with vigor and resolve to take control of the center court.

He hauled his Chinese opponent around the court until Yulin, who was taller, pulled a shoulder which forced him to retire from the game and Ogunsakin prevailed 7–5.

Speaking after the match, Ogunsakin, said that the match meant a lot to him because it was his first ever appearance at a Junior ITF event.

He said that he had a poor game at first until he improved on his game.

“ The reason was that in the first set I did not know my opponent’s ways of play; I was just trying to see how I could do but in the second set I moved on .

“ I got through by displaying brilliant performance, withstanding Yulin  pressure and winning 7-5, thereby ending Yulin’s hope  of advancing further.

“I am happy for winning this round of 32 matches and advancing to the round of 16 stage where I will be playing against Ganiyu Mubarak in round of 16. I hope to also pull the same victory,”he said.

NAN reports that in the female category in the singles round of 16 matches saw Yakubu Ohunene beat Bisola Ogunkolafe 6-1,6-1 to advance to the quarter finals.

Goodness Aina defeated Myah  Chang Harper from Great Britain 2-6,6-4,6-3 while Blessing Otu overpowered Ehana Chrys-Chikere from Australia 6-2,6-2.

Also, Kadijat Mohammed humbled Etoro Bassey 7-6, 3-6,6-3,  Destiny Okhinaye beat Ambimbola Ayinla 6-0,6-0 and Jasmine Osho beat Alisha Ndukwu from Great Britain 6-0,6-0.

NAN reports that six countries, Nigeria (host) , Ghana, Great Britain, Australia, China and Benin Republic are participating in the ongoing championship.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

STJ/JPE

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

Support

By Uchenna Eletuo

Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Lagos Tennis Club (LTC) says it is set to organise a charity event to raise some funds to support the rehabilitation of  Tanya Okpala, a former tennis star.

The President of LTC, Mr Temitope Abere, gave the assurance in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday.

Abere, who spoke against the backdrop of the welfare of players, said that the LTC had the tradition to support the welfare of outstanding tennis players in the country.

NAN reports that Okpala, 41, has been battling drug addiction, of which had been of great concern to her family and the tennis community.

The former tennis star has been undergoing rehabilitation due to the drug-related challenges.

According to Abere, the club will on Sunday, June 9, stage a charity event at the Lagos Tennis Club, Tafawa Balewa Square, to raise funds to help Okpala get better.

The president noted that the management of LTC had recognised the plight of the tennis star and given approval for the humanitarian action.

“It is true she is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Anambra, and our support will boost efforts toward her well-being.

“The club, the pioneer recreational club in Africa, has a track record of impacting positively on the lives of distinguished sports men and women, particularly tennis players who have made the nation proud.

“Our club was founded in 1895 as a foremost recreational club in the country.

“We have an enviable record for excellence and we are very much committed to creating conducive atmosphere for the discovery and nurturing of talented players that fly the nation’s flag in international tourneys,” he said.

Abere revealed that Tanya Okpala’s father is a member of the Lagos Tennis Club that provided the platform to nurture young Tanya into stardom.

“When we read that Tanya had fallen on hard times, we felt it is part of our corporate responsibility to reach out to the family and support her in the little way we can.

“Our prayer is that Tanya will continue to get good care so that she recovers in good time and continues with her tennis career”.

He noted that Okpala came into the national limelight as a teenage tennis star in the 90s.

She was a regular feature of several grassroots lawn tennis tournaments in the country and performed excellently well.

She traveled out of the country for professional exploits where she fell victim to drug abuse.

Also, Godwin Kienka, the Director of International Tennis Academy, who tutored Okpala, said she was a promising young star who completed and won competitions in the age group cadre before proceeding to the senior level.

Kienka said that Okpala and Jacquelyne Okwueze, among others, performed well, such that all got scholarship to study in U.S.

Okpala, however, returned to Nigeria in 2007 with drug-related challenges, but has been undergoing rehabilitation.  (NAN) www.nannews.ng

EUC/VIV

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Edited by Vivian Ihechu

Volunteerism

By Stanley Nwanosike

Enugu, June 7, 2024 (NAN) Ebere Amaraizu, Chairman, Rangers International Football Club Foundation, has hailed the club’s management for instituting an initiative of Rangers’ Stadium Volunteers and Stewards.

Amaraizu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Enugu that the initiative of the club’s General Manager, Amobi Ezeaku, was one of the best for football development in Nigeria.

”This is the first in the country and in line with the international best practices.
Stadium stewards/volunteers, which is freewill, will help in community services.

”They provide convivial services which promote the face of the game especially in the areas of environment (climate action), stadium cleanliness through removal of debris that can cause disaffection and dissatisfaction of fans/spectators.

”They also will help to maintain stadium decorum and add spices to the general security, safety and orderliness in the stadium with easy coordination.

”This is a huge one and needs to be replicated in all our national clubs and stadiums,” he said.

On Rangers international FC encounter with Enyimba international FC of Aba on Sunday in Enugu, Amaraizu said the derby would help to promote community cohesion and social responsibility within South-East and Nigeria.

”I charge lovers of football to leverage on the passion that comes with this kind of great derby to propagate peace, compassion, build bridges as one body with one goal to foster community cohesion for a greater society,” he said.

He also said that Rangers International FC Foundation had already fine-tuned its activities and framework with multi-disciplinary approaches and strong coalitions on community driven interventions.

Amaraizu, who is also a sports administrator, said that the interventions would make positive impact on community impact especially among young people.

”Other focus areas of the intervention included: climate change, health and well-being, community engagement that will create life changing experience and opportunities among others,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

KSN/DOE
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Edited by Dianabasi Effiong