PeakNews Online
Ibadan is poised to host a flurry of activities as the Squash Section of the Ibadan Recreation Club 1902 gears up for the inaugural Nigeria Top 8 Female Invitational Squash Tournament. The event, sponsored by Solar Power Etal and the African Diaspora Squash Association (ADSA), aims to bring together the country’s top eight female squash players to compete for a wildcard entry to the prestigious Abbas Family Squash Tournament in Maryland, USA.
Akinlolu Ajayi-Obe, CEO of Solar Power Etal, emphasized the tournament’s focus on empowering young female athletes by providing them a platform to showcase their talents. “This tournament is designed to give the girl child a sense of belonging and an opportunity to showcase their talents,” Ajayi-Obe stated. He highlighted his company’s long-standing commitment to sports development, particularly in squash and basketball.
Ajayi-Obe elaborated on the partnership with ADSA, a US-based organization dedicated to promoting squash within the African diaspora. “We’re sponsoring a ‘wild card’ entry for a talented Nigerian female player at the PSA tournament happening alongside ADSA’s event. The Solar Power Etal Invitational is another way to further empower female squash players.”
The tournament’s focus on female athletes aims to address the historical lack of resources and encouragement for women in squash. “Unfortunately, there’s often a lack of resources and encouragement for female squash players. This tournament aims to address this disparity and provide a platform for talented female athletes,” Ajayi-Obe explained.
While the tournament does not offer traditional prize money, participants will receive an appearance fee of N100,000.00, with all travel, accommodation, and meals covered by Solar Power Etal. Additionally, ADSA is offering an all-expenses-paid trip to the prestigious Abbas Family PSA tournament, providing significant exposure for the athletes.
Ajayi-Obe expressed hope that the tournament would become an annual event, contingent on ADSA’s continued sponsorship. “Our commitment to supporting sports development remains strong, regardless of the tournament’s future format,” he noted, while indicating that Ibadan might not be the permanent home for the event.
Technical Director of the Oyo State Squash Association, Niyi Oyewumi, welcomed the tournament as a significant boost for female players. “This tournament is a welcome development that will energize female players to be at their best,” Oyewumi said. He called on the Oyo State government to complete the four squash courts at the Adamasingba Stadium complex to facilitate better training and hosting of future tournaments.
As the countdown begins, excitement is building for this landmark event in Nigerian squash, promising to pave the way for greater opportunities and recognition for female players in the sport.
Joe
