By Joe Apu
With barely a week to the commencement of the JGM National Squash Tournament for U16 and U19 Boys and Girls, the ancient city of Ibadan is already agog.
According to the coach of the Squash Section of the Ibadan Recreation Club, Olayinka Popoola, everything is in place for the event to hold.
Popoola stated in a chat that the courts are wearing a new look haven just been painted in readiness for the tournament that is in its second edition. “We’re all set to receive players and officials from around the country for this annual tournament that is attracting entries from across the country. With the kids now on holidays, we hope our athletes will represent Oyo State well.”
The coach, who is also in charge of logistics for the tournament called on other stakeholders to follow the footsteps of the sponsor, Emmanuel Oyewumi to further develop the game of squash in Oyo State and in the country.
“The squash section of the Ibadan Recreation Club is proud to have our member as sponsor of this tournament. He started playing squash here in Ibadan and grew to become national U19 champion in his playing days. For him to come back and is hosting players and officials from all over the federation is huge and commendable. Others should emulate his gesture because talents abound in Nigeria and only regular tournaments can bring out the best in them.”
Speaking on the forthcoming tournament, the sponsor Emmanuel Oyewumi who doubles as the technical director of the Oyo State Squash Association said the event is his way of giving back to the sport that made him.
“As a young athlete, I had the opportunity of representing my state and later Borno State and I must confess that most of the encouragement I had was through participation in tournaments here in Nigeria and abroad. Our young players need such encouragement hence my little contribution through this tournament, which went national last year.
“The turnout last year was impressive and I believe it would be better this time around. Every player that registers for the tournament will not go home empty handed, Oyewumi promised.