As the 2024 National Youths Games Zonal Elimination Ball Games comes to an end in Osogbo at the weekend, the Lagos’s team has secured 10 slots going into the Games proper in Asaba, Delta State.
The qualifying series witnessed a spectacular display of athleticism and sportsmanship as Lagos State’s contingent stole the show. With determination etched on their faces, the athletes took to the courts and fields, demonstrating the good spirits of excellence and the level of preparation put in place prior to the Games.
It was a celebration galore for the Lagos’s girls football team winning all their three matches, earning nine points on the log. The team’s cohesive play and tactical brilliance earned them a well-deserved win. They trounced Oyo 3-1 and in the second leg they were able to replicate the same score line before rounding off the campaign with a 2-0 win over host’s Osun.
The basketball female team also put up a stellar performance in a round-robin game, having overpowered Osun 14-13 in a close margin encounter. Their matches against Ondo 11-3 and Ekiti 18-6 were very spectacular, and proved unbeatable, sinking three-pointers with ease and executing flawless defensive plays.
In the hockey event, Lagos’ girls were very impressive as they did not bow to any pressure on the field of play. They outpaced Oyo 2-0 before a tie with Ekiti which ended in another 2-0, signifying the level of area covered and the number of goals scored in two matches.
Team Lagos Handball boys were also another fashion of indomitable team Lagos paraded with the level of their perseverance against Oyo state in the final. It was an intense encounter as the match ended 20-20 after regulation time. But Lagos boys triumphed 8-7 in the penalty shoot-out. They outclassed Ogun 26-20 in their first match.
Volleyball (female), Abula(female) Cricket(female), Hockey(female), Handball(male), Rugby(male/female), Football(female), and Basketball(male/female) have all qualified to represent the state at the Games proper in Asaba, Delta State, from 9th to 19th September 2024.
In his reaction to the success recorded, the Director General of Lagos State Sports Commission Lekan Fatodu, reiterated that their outstanding performances were a testament to the state’s investment in grassroots sports development and the athletes’ unwavering dedication.
While assuring athletes of the full support of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration on sports development and their welfare, Fatodu emphasized that the state will continuously prioritise athletes’ needs and safety at all times.
He admonished the athletes to always aim high and set goals as there are times to win and lose in any competition, adding that some of the factors that keep them progressing in life, particularly in sporting activities are determination, perseverance and focus.
The Lagos athletes’ triumph in Osogbo was met with jubilation back home, as fans and officials alike celebrated their success. The team’s display of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship had made Lagos proud, and their journey to the top, just beginning.
