Sports

Winners Emerge as Maiden JOE Tennis Tournament Ends in Grand Style

Published

1 year ago

December 29, 2023

…Tourney to continually foster discovery of young talents

Joel Ajayi

The inaugural JOE Tennis Tournament reached a thrilling conclusion with worthy champions emerging in both junior and professional categories at the Calabar Sports Club on Monday evening.

Senator John Enoh, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, expressed his excitement and pride in witnessing the abundance of young talent showcased during the tournament.

He emphasized the tournament’s role as a nurturing ground for raw potential, affirming its commitment to fostering budding athletes.

“The tournament’s success in unearthing such incredible young talent is truly inspiring. We want to provide platforms like this to nurture and support these future stars.”

The grand finale marked the culmination of nine days filled with exhilarating tennis action in the heart of Cross River state’s capital. Among the highlights were the victories of remarkable players in various categories:

In the U16 category, Damilola Agunbiade demonstrated exceptional skill and emerged as the winner, with Covenant Con securing the first runner-up position.
Charles Olom Odok claimed victory in the pro cadre, showcasing prowess and determination, while Mfon Joseph Obot secured an impressive second place.
The Men’s singles category witnessed intense matches, with Effa Ojing emerging victorious by defeating Odey Igrinya to claim the top position. Alaga Joseph and David Alobi showcased their skill, securing spots as semi-finalists.

The Men’s Doubles event was no less electrifying, as Manyo Ogar and Ahmed Umar combined their power to strike gold. The duo of Effa Ojong and Agunbiade exhibited exceptional teamwork, securing the second spot in this fiercely contested event.

Senator Enoh added, “The commitment and skill displayed by these athletes throughout the tournament have been commendable. Their dedication to their sport is an inspiration to us all.”

The John Owan Enoh Foundation (JOE) extended its heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, runners-up, and participants who showcased exceptional talent and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

The success of this maiden edition reinforces the foundation’s commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting sports excellence in our communities.

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Sports

Cricket: Nigeria To Host ICC U19 Men’s World Cup Qualifier

Published

7 hours ago

March 17, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Nigeria Cricket Federation , NCF, says it is ready to host five other nations for the International Cricket Council ,ICC, Under 19 Men’s World Cup African Qualifier.

The tournament is billed for Lagos, with the matches to be held at the cricket ovals in Tafawa Balewa Square ,TBS, and the University of Lagos ,UniLag, from March 26 to April 6.

Uyi Akpata, President of the Federation, said in a statement on Sunday, that the tournament is about celebrating the growth of the game on the continent.

“Nigeria is thrilled to welcome these talented young cricketers and their supporters to Lagos.
“Our nation is known for its warm hospitality and fascinating cricketing potential, and we are committed to making this qualifier a memorable experience for all.

“This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the growth of cricket in Africa and inspiring the next generation of players”, Akpata noted.

However, Kenya, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania and Sierra Leone will join Nigeria to jostle for the continent’s sole ticket to the 2026 ICC Under 19 Men’s World Cup.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will be hoping to secure the ticket, having achieved same feat in 2019 and competing at the World Cup in South Africa 2020

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