U-15 Table Tennis Championship Kicks Off in Lagos

The seventh edition of the Adegboyega Efunkoya Sports Foundation’s National U-15 Table Tennis Championships started in Lagos on Tuesday. The event kicked off with a two-day clinic at the indoor hall of the National Stadium.

The main tournament will run from August 13 to 15. New champions are expected to emerge during this exciting period.

Hundreds of young athletes are taking part in the clinic. It aims to improve their strokes, footwork, and tactics. The clinic also focuses on discipline and innovation. The programme includes physical conditioning and modern training methods. These will prepare players for tough competition and give them a chance to impress national selectors.

Babatunde Obisanya, the chairman of the Foundation and a former national team coach, talked about the importance of the clinic. He said, "We are overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from stakeholders worldwide, former players in the diaspora, administrators, and enthusiasts who believe in our vision. Our mission is to continue the legacy of Dr. Adegboyega Efunkoya, ensuring that players combine sports with education. Each year, we introduce new innovations, and this year will be no different. Beyond competition, we remain committed to supporting the education of players who excel."

Since it started, the championship has produced many talented players for Nigeria’s national teams. One notable success story is Matthew Kuti. He was discovered at the first edition and is now a key member of the senior squad. He is also the reigning U-19 champion in Africa. Other successful alumni include Khadijat Musa and the Ayoola siblings, Umar, Usman, and Kabirat, who currently play for Nigeria at the junior level.

The Adegboyega Efunkoya Sports Foundation is dedicated to honoring Dr. Adegboyega Efunkoya. He was the former chairman of the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation and had a big impact on the sport in Nigeria. The Foundation continues to promote table tennis among junior players in primary and secondary schools. Their goal is to help Nigeria become one of the top ten table tennis nations in the world.