Gateway Games: Why Team Imo failed woefully – SWAN

The Imo State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria SWAN, has expressed their deep conncern over Team Imo poor performance in the just concluded Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival( Gateway Games)

Imo SWAN in a communique issued in Owerri after their June Monthly Congress regretted that the state finished 16th overall with 4 Gold, 6 Silver, and 28 Bronze medals-the worst in the history of the team’s participation at the Festival

In the communique jointly endorsed by the SWAN chairman Imo State Comrade Cosmos Chukwuemeka and the Secretary Turnde Liadi charged the Imo State Sports Commission and coaches to eliminate sentiments and favoritism in athlete selection.

The association noted that Team Imo failed to field its best athletes in several events while urging that henceforth selections must be merit-driven to ensure fairness and optimal performance.

SWAN strongly urged the state government to prioritize the welfare of athletes noting that adequate welfare incentives will curb the increasing poaching of Imo athletes by other states and foster better performance.

The group frowns at the consistent delay in fund disbursement for major competitions which according to them hinders preparation and performance.

The association calls on the administration of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, to ensure early release of funds to enable proper planning and execution.

The body attributed the poor performance of the athletes to the dilapidated equipment and poor facilities.

SWAN however callef for urgent renovation of key sporting infrastructures, including Tartan tracks at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Handball turf and stands at Grasshoppers Stadium
swimming pool behind the Dan Anyiam practice pitch, Provision of modern sports wheelchairs and kits for para-athletes

SWAN recommended for engagement of retired and experienced coaches on part-time basis by the Sports Commission and Ministry of Sports to boost Team Imo’s competitiveness

The body commends all medal-winning athletes at the Festival, particularly Favour Okehie of Darts that won four medals including a gold medal and other individuals that won gold medals for Team Imo.

Others include Jacinta Mbagwo (Para Table Tennis), Uchenna Anuruo & Isife Michael (Golf Doubles),Mercy Nneka Onwuchekwa (Chess)

SWAN calls on the Imo government to offer these five immediate employment as a form of reward and motivation for future athletes.

They also appealef to the Imo State Government to host and celebrate athletes who won medals at the Edo 2020, Delta 2022, and Ogun 2024 editions of the National Sports Festival adding that this will ensure our best athletes return home.

On Heart land Fc relegation, the body expressed deep concern over Heartland FC’s relegation from the NPFL while urging the government to strengthen support structures to ensure a swift return to topflight football.

SWAN commends Heartland Queens for retaining their NWFL ststus as they urged the technical crew and management to intensify efforts for a stronger league performance next season.

The body however appealed to the government to improve the club’s welfare package to help motivate them next season.