Nigeria Squash Federation Distributes Equipments to Grassroots Coaches
Oru Leonard
The Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF), has distributed squash equipment to four grassroots coaches as part of the ongoing efforts to develop and promote the sport across the country.
The equipment distribution and press briefing took place on Thursday at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, where a total of 10 rackets and two packs of squash balls, containing 12 balls each, were presented to coaches from different geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
Speaking during the event, President of the Federation, Sunday Egberipou, said the initiative formed part of the federation’s grassroots development programme aimed at discovering and nurturing young talents nationwide
He expressed appreciation to Transcorp Hilton Abuja for its continued support towards the growth of squash in Nigeria.
“Our relationship with the hotel dates back to my playing days when tournaments were held here. Returning to this venue will help strengthen our partnership and improve the development of squash in the country,” he said.
Egberipou noted that squash is not only a fitness sport but also one that promotes discipline, courage, and determination among young people.
“It is a lifelong sport that prepares young people for the future. Even our grand patron and former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, still plays squash,” he added.
According to him, the federation has commenced the training of coaches who will return to their communities to identify and groom young talents across the country.
The beneficiaries of the equipment include Coach Segun Afolabi from Niger State, Coach Ebanga Ettiku from Akwa Ibom State, Coach Desback Longdi from Plateau State and Coach Cally Yasmin of Kashas Squash Academy, Kaduna State.
Egberipou explained that the rackets distributed were high-quality junior rackets procured from the United States, specifically for players under the age of 11.
“This is grassroots equipment and not for national team players. We want to ensure that young talents have access to quality equipment for training,” he said.
General Manager of Transcorp Hilton Abuja, Martyn Zarybnicky, reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to sports development, noting that the facility has continued to serve as a training hub for players in Abuja and beyond.
Vice President of the Federation and Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Haniel Hadison, commended the hotel for supporting the federation and called for increased support from stakeholders and the National Sports Commission.
Also speaking, Rachael Samuel praised the federation’s grassroots development initiative and expressed optimism that squash would continue to gain wider recognition in Nigeria.
(NSC Media)
