Ondo concludes trials for Niger Delta Sports Festival

Ahead of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, starting from April 1 through April 9, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the final screening for Ondo athletes has been concluded.

The process which was held at the Ondo State Sports Complex, had athletes in their numbers participate in different game trials such as basketball, volleyball, handball, boxing, traditional wrestling, chess, tennis, and weightlifting, among others.

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It was a moment of zeal as athletes from the 18 local councils converged on the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure for the final trials before camping and departing for the game proper in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State.

The screening was led by the state professional coaches who coordinated the selection process.

Ondo of the nine ambassadors of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, Seun Ogunkoya, commended the level of preparedness and commitment of athletes and coaches to having a good outing.

He commended the liaison committee for creating an enabling environment for the trials to thrive.

“I think this is my first time seeing potential athletes in the state coming out for the trials; the way I am seeing some things, we are good to go. My expectation is to be part of the victory, and with my own observation, we are good to go,” he said.

Also, one of the coaches of the Ondo State Swimming Association, Monday Mobgojuri, said the association had already filled all the required categories needed for the competition.

Mobgojuri said the athletes being prepared for the tournament would win medals for the state.

Volleyball Coach, Oluwaseun Afuye expressed satisfaction with the crop of athletes that had been selected, after going to the grassroots to scout out hidden talents before the final screening.

While commending organisers, he noted that this will engage the youths meaningfully and make them reach their full potential

Also, Handball Coach, Ronke Saliu said the level of turnout, showed that Team Ondo was on the right track to go for all that is to be won.

She expressed confidence that those who made the final shot would perform to standard and make Ondo State proud.

Boxing Head Coach, Osifo Moses, said this will give the needed platforms to youth in Ondo State to showcase their hidden talents.

Others advised those picked to remain dedicated, disciplined, and committed to their goals, urging them to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship during the game properly.