From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nasarawa State Under-15 tennis team is set to make its mark at the ongoing National Youth Games, with the boys gearing up for intense matchups against their counterparts from Adamawa and Oyo states. The team, brimming with young talent, is confident and eager to put forth their best performance.
Muhammed Abdullahi, 12-year-old will face Ogunjere Onyekachi from Oyo State in a crucial match that promises to test both skill and mental fortitude.
On the other hand, Ismail Shuaibu, 12 years of age another rising star from Nasarawa, is set to compete against Atarama Henriga from Adamawa State, in what is expected to be a closely contested battle.
Speaking to The Sun Correspondent on Friday, Coach Shuaibu Usman, who has been instrumental in shaping the boys’ preparation, expressed optimism ahead of the matches. He noted that the young athletes have worked hard and are highly motivated to showcase their talent on the national stage.
“These boys have put in tremendous effort over the past months, and this tournament is a big opportunity for them to prove themselves. It’s not just about winning; it’s about learning, growing, and gaining experience. Facing strong opponents from states like Adamawa and Oyo will build their resilience,” Coach Usman said.
For the boys, competing in the National Youth Games represents more than just a chance to win medals; it’s an opportunity to step into the national spotlight and make a name for themselves in the sport.
Muhammed Abdullahi who is one of the youngest in the team, spoke about his excitement and determination to perform well in his second major tournament.
“I’ve been training very hard for this. I am determined, but I believe in myself and my team. I want to make my state proud,” Abdullahi remarked with enthusiasm.
The upcoming matches are crucial for Nasarawa State’s chances in the tennis category, and all eyes will be on these talented young players as they take to the court. Both the team and their coach are hopeful that their preparation, coupled with their passion for the sport, will lead to a successful outing.
The National Youth Games continues to be a platform for nurturing future sports stars, and for the Nasarawa Under-15 tennis team, this year’s edition might just be the beginning of a promising journey.
