By Vivian Onyebukwa
There was excitement as the management, staff and students of King Emmanuel Schools, Ayobo, Lagos, held their eighth biennial inter-house sports tournament recenly.
The event, which took place at Cherubim and Seraphim field, Ayobo, also brought together parents and children from other schools who were invited to witness the programme.
In his welcome address, the proprietor of the school, Baiyewu Anthony, stated the importance of sporting activities in the development of the child, saying it could not be overemphasized.
“A healthy child is a wealthy child, and if you invest in your health, you are generating wealth. It is through sports that a child develops,” he said.
According to him, children have some God-given talents that can be brought to the fore through sporting activities of such nature: “Sports is a platform to promote the development of children by improving their social and leadership skills and bettering their well-being. It also helps to groom them to become world class stars”.
Baiyewu made reference to sports legends such as the world football players Ronaldo, Messi and Jayjay Okocha. He equally mentioned the queen of track and field, Modupe Osukoya, whom he said started on a humble note and progressed to lofty height and global stardom.
The proprietor promised that the institution will continue to create a conducive learning environment for sports because of it’s contribution to the development of the physical and mental well-being of a child.
He commended the co-operation and understanding of the parents and other stakeholders for their unwavering moral, financial and spiritual support.
Different sporting activities such as track and field, were displayed by the children. The invited schools participated in some of the sporting activities. The schools included Brigg’s Gate, Bachel, Abbot, Great Grace, New Ocean, and Liberty College.
Others were Jotlad, Marg-Phill, Akinrotoye Memorial High School, Enefem, C&S College and Sees, all from within Lagos State environs.
Parents and teachers were not left out as they participated in track and field event too. Awards were given to the winners at the competition.
First position went to Yellow House with 79 points, Blue House came second with 68 points, third position went to Pink House with 64 points and Wine House clinched fourth position with 36 points.
Other activities presented by the children included match past, dance performances, and music.