Abuja: The organisers of the Squash Ex-Pros in the Diaspora Tournament have announced that the competition is being utilized to foster grassroots development of squash, encouraging young athletes to balance education with their burgeoning sports careers.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the seventh edition of this tournament is set to take place from August 12 to 15 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium’s Squash Courts in Abuja.
The event will host nearly 100 young participants, both boys and girls, across the Under-11, Under-13, and Under-15 categories from various regions of the country. Speaking to the press in Abuja, Comptroller Haniel Hadison, Vice-President of the Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF) and a former top-ranked Nigerian player, emphasized the tournament’s role in nurturing future squash talents. Hadison highlighted that the initiative, driven by former national players who have pursued careers abroad and returned to support the sport, is crucial for identifying and promoting young talent, while also stressing the importance of education.
Hadison remarked on the NSF’s commitment to enhancing grassroots structures and connecting young players with national-level opportunities. He urged participants to prioritize their education alongside their sports training. Acknowledging the sponsors’ and stakeholders’ contributions, Hadison noted their vital role in complementing government efforts in sports development, while also praising the international-standard facilities at the National Stadium.
The tournament’s move to Abuja is significant, marking its first occurrence in Nigeria’s northern region following six editions in the South-West, particularly in Lagos. This expansion is intended to broaden squash’s reach and encourage participation nationwide, with nearly 100 registrants across age categories. Hadison clarified that instead of cash prizes, participants would receive squash kits and equipment, focusing on development and encouragement at the junior level.
Friday Odeh, Chairman of Squash Ex-Pros in the Diaspora and a former national player, expressed satisfaction with the tournament’s progress over seven years, noting its success in producing top players. One key objective is to engage states like Kano, which had not participated in squash competitions for two decades but returned this year. Odeh emphasized the importance of introducing the sport to every state, ensuring widespread knowledge and participation in squash.
Odeh also mentioned targeting primary schools through the Under-11 category to encourage early adoption of the sport. He reiterated the priority of education, asserting that academic performance is crucial for every young athlete. Lanre Taiwo, a Board of Trustees member, stated that the decision to hold the tournament in Abuja was deliberate to prevent it from being a South-West-centric event. He also expressed optimism about the improving international performance of Nigerian squash players, especially juniors, despite disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The organisers are committed to continuing support for young athletes and expanding grassroots programs nationwide, with the seventh edition offering competitive experience, talent discovery, and further opportunities for squash development in Nigeria.