After an intense 5 days of technical tutoring and competition, winners have emerged from the maiden edition of Ikoyi Club Lawn Tennis competition for Secondary Schools in Lagos State, sponsored by a leading soft drink manufacturing company, Seven-Up Bottling Company.
ThankGod Adakole from Falomo Senior High School defeated another School mate two sets to one, to grab the Male senior category trophy, Ozioiza Yakubu from Gilbrata Secondary School emerged the Female Single Senior category winner. Ohunene Yakubu also from Gilbrata went home with the female junior category medal, while Silas Isaac a JSS 3 student from Master Moulders Secondary defeated another public school player to win the Male Junior Category.
Various participants that got to the quarter and semi -finals were given award of encouragement, while coaches and other officials were recognized for their efforts and contribution to the success of the competition.
The competition which was targeted at developing talents and training the trainers had over 240 students male and female from the public and private secondary schools in attendance as well as senior tennis coaches with the support of National Tennis Federation.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Chairman Tennis Section, Ikoyi Club, Mr. Abimbola Okubena noted that, participation of players and coaches was outstanding as the aim of the competition and clinic was met. One of the greatest score of the 5 day competition was the train the trainer session which focused on shaping the technicality of the tennis coaches.
He added that, there will be follow up on the clinic to sharpen the young star on technicality, game rules and overall flair for the game. As they are the future of tennis development in Nigeria.
Mr. Okubena, appreciated tennis federation and seven-up bottling for their various contributions toward the actualization of the maiden edition of the competition. ‘The competition is expected to expand to all secondary schools in Lagos next edition’. Abimbola stated.
Male single winner, ThankGod Adakole, speaking on behalf of the winners applauded Ikoyi club for the idea and seven-up for giving a lead to developing young talents that will propel tennis game appreciation.
The Ikoyi Club was established as an European club in 1938 in Ikoyi, Lagos. It occupies approximately 456 acres of land. In the subsequent years, the club merged with the Lagos Golf Club. Besides the golf course, the Club also has many sports and relaxation amenities for members and their families.
