The Chairman of the Scrabble Association of Kwara state, Mr. Olumayowa Kabir Aliyu has spoken of his player’s readiness to participate and do the state proud at the forthcoming national Sports Festival in Edo state.
Speaking to newsmen during the 25th Scrabble Retreat at Olufoda Resort and Hotels Limited, Awolowo road, Ilorin on Sunday, he said that the Retreat, which holds regularly, was to prepare the players for the multi-sports event which has suffered series of postponements, and other tournaments beyond it.
According to him, ‘we have 12 formidable players, among them three women, who are ready to do the state proud at the festival’, he said.
‘I am satisfied with their standard, because we have come a long way, as they have also represented the state as best as they can over the years.
‘They are exposed, and I am sure they will do better’, he averred.
The Chairman also hinted of a move to bring young players on board, starting from next year.
‘We have plans in the pipeline. In the first quarter of 2021, we have drawn up a plan to visit secondary schools, to introduce ‘catch them young’ programme, and introducing them to the basics of scrabble.
While commending the Board of Trustees for their support, he urged the Sports Council to intensify preparations for the National Sports Festival and other competitions.
Mr Olumayowa also commended the government for their support to sports development, adding that the platform will continue to unite people cross board.
Also speaking, Alhaji Ajimati AbdulGaniyu, the coach of the team charged the players to continue to work hard by playing more games.
He also praised the standard of his team, which he says, is capable of springing surprises at the festival.
After the Retreat, the Captain, Ifejuwon Tekobo ended as winner with 8 points, +417. Coach Ajimati Ganiyu, with 6 points, +258 and Tosin Jimoh also with 6 points +144 came second and third respectively.
Others are Shaba Stephen (6 points +117), Segun Adekunle (6 points -118), Joash Aerayetan (4 points-215), Mayowa Aliu (4 points-215) and Kehinde Alao (0 points -226)
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