Category: Sports

Athletes, aerobic clubs and school children on Saturday in Lagos joined millions across the world to take part in the 2023 Olympic Day celebrations.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, tagged ‘Let’s Move’, was held at the National Stadium, Lagos.

Thomas Bach, President of International Olympic Committee (IOC), in a message read by Habu Gumel, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, preached togetherness on Olympic Day celebrations.

Bach urged member associations to embrace sport as it embodies the spirit of togetherness as well as spreading joy to participants.

“The beauty of sports is that it inspires the world to move and it brings us all together as a community, no matter where we are or how we choose to move.

“When we do sport, it inspires us to always give our best. When we do sport, it keeps our mind and body strong and healthy.

The Chairman of the Sports-for-All Commission, Ibrahim Abdul of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), called on Nigerians to show interest in global events.

”This is a significant event that promotes the values and goals set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC),” he said.

The Secretary of Sports For All Commission, Augustine Odigie, said that this year’s theme for the Olympic Day celebration “Let’s Move,” sends a powerful message promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.

”It is encouraging to note that 17 states in Nigeria participated in this year’s Olympic Day.

”This number showcases the wide participation and interest in the celebration, further reinforcing the success of the occasion,” he said.

Some Nigerian Olympians, led by Chioma Ajunwa and Henry Amike, were part of the event.

NAN reports that highlights of the Olympic Day include aerobics, dance, jogging and cultural display.

The participants were issued certificates of participation.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Banyana Banyana’s presence at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup sends a powerful message that women can achieve anything they set their minds on, says Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa.

“I want to commend Banyana Banyana for the indomitable spirit they have displayed throughout their careers. Their courage, talent and commitment has made us all proud. May they continue to rise above all obstacles, may they continue to break barriers and redefine what is possible,” the Minister said on Friday in Pretoria.

He made these remarks during the announcement of final 23-woman squad to represent South Africa at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The reigning African champions, South Africa, together with Morocco, Nigeria, and Zambia, are the four African teams set to represent the continent at the World Cup in New Zealand and Australia from 20 July – 20 August 2023.

“South Africa is with you every step of the way. As a country, we do not only hope you only come back with a trophy but we also hope that you come back with experience and knowledge that you can share with all of us.

“I encourage you to embrace every moment, and never lose sight of the power you hold to inspire the future generations.

“I wish you all the success, happiness and fulfilment in your upcoming endeavours. Go forth Banyana Banyana and continue to shine your light in the world,” Kodwa said.

He expressed his deepest gratitude to each member of the coaching staff, who have nurtured and guided the team.

“Your expertise, dedication and commitment have played a vital role in shaping these talented athletes into the formidable force that we have today. Your tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed and we are immensely grateful for the impact that you have made on the lives of these athletes,” the Minister said.

Banyana Banyana Captain, Refiloe Jane, said being selected as the captain of the team and representing the country at the World Cup is an honour and privilege.

“I also want to give credit to the players who have been selected to go to the World Cup. We know what lies ahead. It is not going to be easy but we have put in the work. We have showcased what we are capable of. Going into the World Cup, we will leave no stone unturned,” Jane said.

Head coach of Banyana Banyana, Desiree Ellis, announced the squad to represent South Africa at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup as follows:

Goalkeepers:

Andile Dlamini

Kaylin Swart

Kebotseng Moletsane

Defenders:

Karabo Dhlamini

Fikile Magama

Lebohang Ramalepe

Tiiseto Makhubela

Noko Matlou

Bambanani Mbane

Bongeka Gamede

Midfielders

Kholosa Biyana

Refiloe Jane

Sibulele Holweni

Linda Motlhalo

Nomvula Kgoale

Robyn Moodalay

Forwards

Gabriela Salgado

Jermaine Seoposenwe

Noxolo Cesane

Melinda Kgadiete

Wendy Shongwe

Hildah Magaia

Thembi Kgatlana

Standby

Ntabiseng Majiya

Amogelang Motau

Regirl Ngobeni

Source: South African Government News Agency

Senior national football team coach Collin Benjamin says the Burundi game is done and dusted and the focus now should be building a team and exposing younger players to more international competitions.

On Tuesday, Namibia lost 2-3 against Burundi in its last African Nations Cup qualifiers in Tanzania. With that defeat, the senior national men’s team will now have to wait for the match between Burundi and Cameroon in September to see if they will be competing at the nations cup finals in Ivory Coast.

In an interview with Nampa on Wednesday, Benjamin said conceding two early goals on Tuesday derailed them from their official plan, but nothing can be done about it now.

“The match was lost, but the battle is not over yet. We will wait for the two teams to play each other. What is left is to rectify what happened in the match at the training ground as these are the same guys that won Cameroon, and one can’t therefore say they are not good enough just two months after winning against one of the best teams on the continent,” he said.

The coach added that some of the positives picked from the match are that the local-based players brought their part, but more needs to be done to help them improve as athletes.

Benjamin further said a few changes will be made for the Council of Southern African Football Association (COSAFA) senior cup challenge squad in order to give exposure to the young players so they can gain experience in playing football at a good level.

“If these young and local players build up international experience, we will have a good team to rely on,” he said.

Benjamin said he trusts all the players called up for national duties, and therefore, a defeat against Burundi cannot change his view on them.

He said the team has 12 days to focus on the young players who need to gain international experience. The Cosafa senior cup challenge is slated for Durban, South Africa from 05 to 16 July 2023.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

The Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has called on States to demonstrate full commitment to the success of the Olympic Day celebration.

Ibrahim Abdul, Chairman of the Sports-for-All Commission of the NOC made the call during a virtual meeting of the Committee ahead of the Olympic Day Run celebration scheduled for June 24.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of this year’s Olympic Day Run is “Let’s Move”.

Abdul said the Olympic Day Run had become an essential event that brings people together to celebrate the values of Olympism and promote physical well-being.

He described the celebration as a significant event which promotes the values and goals set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

According to him, it is worth mentioning that the Commission benefits from the expertise and experience of two former chairpersons, Anthony Oyetayo and Henry Amike who brought valuable insights to the table.

“With their guidance and the collective knowledge of all members, the success of this celebration becomes highly feasible,” he said.

On his part, Tunde Poopola, NOC, Secretary-General, said there was need to enhance the marketing drive of the NOC to improve its funding.

Poopola said the funding was crucial in sustaining the values of Olympism and ensuring the continued celebration of the Olympic Day.

“It reflects the Commission’s dedication to maintaining and promoting the essence of the Olympic Games,” he said.

Also speaking, Austin Odigie, the Assistant Secretary In-charge of the Commission commended the impressive turnout at the inaugural meeting.

Odigie commended the enthusiasm and commitment of members towards organising a memorable Olympic Day celebration.

He said it was encouraging that 13 States had volunteered to host the event on their territories.

“This number showcases the wide participation and interest in the celebration, further reinforcing the expected success of the occasion,” he said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Nigeria will participate in 11 events at the 2nd African Beach Games scheduled to hold between June 22 and June 30 in Temament, Tunisia, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

A statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja by Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer (PRO), Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), said the Games was organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA).

Nezianya disclosed that President of the NOC, Habu Gumel is expected to lead Team Nigeria to the Games which would serve as crucial qualification phase for the upcoming ANOC World Beach Games in Bali, Indonesia, scheduled for between Aug. 4 and Aug. 12, 2023.

“Not less than 11 events will be on offer, where athletes will showcase their talents and athleticism of Nigerian athletes on the beautiful beaches of Tunisia.

“The events cover a wide range of sports, ensuring a diverse and exciting competition for both participants and spectators alike.

“First on the list is the high-energy sport of Beach Volleyball, where Nigeria will be represented by a skilled team of 12 players.

“Following closely is Beach Handball, with a talented squad of 10 players ready to showcase their exceptional skills on the sand.

“In addition to these dynamic team sports, Nigeria will also compete in individual events, while air badminton will see three players from Nigeria demonstrating their agility, quick reflexes, and finesse,” Nezianya stated.

The NOC image maker said a solitary athlete would represent the country in Kata Karate (traditional martial art).

He further stated that the open water would provide an exhilarating challenge for Nigerian athletes participating in Open Water Swimming.

“The country will have four determined swimmers diving into the waves, seeking to conquer the demanding nature of the sport.

“The thrill continues with the inclusion of Teqball, a relatively new sport that combines elements of soccer and table tennis.

“Nigeria will field a competitive team of three players, who will battle it out against the other nations in this unique and exciting sport.

“With Tennis, four skilled Nigerian athletes will make their mark on the sandy courts, showcasing their power, precision, and strategy against tough opponents.

“Ocean Racing, a daring and physically demanding water sport, will feature two athletes representing Nigeria’s competitive spirit,” he stated.

He also stated that four athletes would fly the country’s flag in Rowing Beach Sprint, while three wrestlers would represent the country in Beach Wrestling.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Namibian 3×3 basketball team registered mixed results in its unified men’s games at the 2023 Special Olympics World Games underway in Berlin, Germany.

The Namibian team had an impressive performance in its divisioning games since Monday but started its play-off for silverware with an upset against Korea.

Namibia had an impressive start in their medal rankings game but as the game continued, they found it hard to contain the Koreans, who were outscoring them at any given opportunity.

After five minutes of action at the Neptunbrunnen centre, the Korean team collected maximum points with a 16-11 win.

Despite going down in their opening match of the day, the Namibian team dusted themselves off in their second match to outclass Uruguay 9-5 after five minutes of action.

Their last match of the day will be against a high-flying Cuban team who have been causing upsets in the championships with their high-scoring games.

Meanwhile, Namibian cyclist Rodney Stewe, the country’s only gold medallist at the championship thus far in the 5-kilometre (km) cycling event, found the going tough in the 25km race on Thursday.

The Namibian cyclist crossed the finish line in sixth position. Rodney had a mechanical problem in the opening lap of his race after his chain fell off and had no chance to catch up with the rest of the riders when his issue was resolved.

In an interview with Nampa on Thursday, Special Olympics Namibia Country Director Emilia Nzuzi said the athletes have been exceptional and she is happy with their performances.

“Rodney was angry when he crossed the line because of his chain that fell off. Despite all these challenges he did well and we are proud of him. Our basketball team is also doing well and we hope they can win their remaining games so they stand a chance to compete for medals,” she said.

After four days of competition, Team Namibia won three medals: one gold and two silver from athletics track and field events and road cycling. The team is competing in athletics, 3×3 basketball and road cycling.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency