Abuja: Former Nigerian international squash player, Longdi Dasbak, has called for increased efforts to encourage girls to take up squash, highlighting that female participation in the sport remains very low. Dasbak made the call at the second edition of the Squash Premier League at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Package B, in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the week-long tournament, themed ‘Breeding the Next Generation of Champions’, began on Monday and will conclude on August 8. Dasbak described the league as a significant initiative that would substantially contribute to grassroots development and the growth of squash in Nigeria. Emphasizing the importance of grassroots initiatives, she noted that the league’s introduction in 2025 has already led to a noticeable increase in participation, indicating improved awareness of the sport.
Dasbak, an instructor at the coaching and officiating clinic organized by the tournament, expressed her commitment to creating opportunities for girls, especi
ally those from less privileged backgrounds, through her foundation, Dasby’s Sports Development Association. The association also runs Dasby’s Squash Academy, where boys and girls aged six and above receive training, with a strong focus on encouraging female participation.
She pointed out that, despite some initial reluctance from parents, sustained advocacy has gradually changed mindsets, leading to more girls participating in sports. Dasbak stressed the need for greater public awareness and government support, noting that squash does not receive the same level of attention as more popular sports like football.
Highlighting the challenges faced by grassroots squash development, she identified inadequate funding, high equipment costs, and transportation as significant hurdles. She emphasized the crucial role of individuals and corporate organizations in supporting such initiatives.
Dasbak also underscored the dual focus of her foundation on sports development and empowering girls with life skills to ensure
self-reliance. She appealed to corporate organizations, philanthropists, and other well-meaning Nigerians to support grassroots sports development, noting that sponsorship is the most urgent need for reaching more children and providing greater opportunities through sports.
Dasbak is the founder of Dasby’s Squash Academy for boys and girls aged six years and above, as well as the Dasby’s Sports Development Association, a Plateau-based initiative dedicated to empowering girls through sports.