The inaugural PAMO Tennis U12 and U14 Championship wrapped up in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, with young tennis talents showcasing their skills in a three-day event. The tournament, aimed at nurturing future tennis stars, brought together 40 participants from across the state.
Organized to inspire young players to pursue both sports and education, the competition saw Bayelsa’s future tennis prospects battle it out for top honors.
Director of Sports at the Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, praised the sponsors for their vision, predicting that Bayelsa could reach new heights and secure podium finishes at national events like the National Sports Festival within the next five years. He was particularly pleased with the strong turnout of young players, describing the initiative as an important step toward the future of tennis in the state.
Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan’s support for youth sports development was highlighted, with Sir Wodi noting that the tournament complements Dr. Jonathan’s ongoing efforts, including the tennis court he established at his residence in Yenagoa.
The sponsor of the event, Mr. Alfred Koripamo, a passionate advocate of grassroots sports, expressed satisfaction with the young talent on display and emphasized that tennis has found a home in Bayelsa. He also revealed plans to make the championship an annual event, with hopes of expanding it to attract more participants and foster national-level competition in the state.
Rev. Anthony Suoware, Chairman of the Yenagoa Tennis Club, commended the tournament for equipping the young athletes with fundamental skills, noting that tennis provides valuable opportunities for youth development. He added that the Yenagoa Tennis Club remains committed to helping these young players compete on a larger stage, enhancing Bayelsa’s reputation as a hub for sports development.
Secretary of the Tennis Association, Mr. Opoikumo Jerry, and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association, Mr. Ama-ebi Ebikpolade Stow, also lauded the event’s success and commended the dedication of both players and parents. Mr. Stow further revealed his intention to adopt one of the young players and continue collaboration between tennis and table tennis associations to positively engage the state’s youth.
In the U12 girls’ category, Ayebaifie Joshua emerged as the champion, with Alaere Benjamin taking second place. Excellency Ogoniru claimed the title in the U12 boys’ category, while Perewari Benjamin and Ayo Abourfatatai placed second and third, respectively.
Karina Opuene triumphed in the U14 girls’ category, followed by Abigail Dominic in second place. Peculiar Williams and Deborah Felix finished in third.
In the U14 boys’ category, Blessed Yimonovie was crowned champion, with Goodluck Sakwe, Israel Abiah, and Michael Whoknows rounding out the top spots.
This first edition of the PAMO Tennis Championship has laid a strong foundation for nurturing young tennis talent in Bayelsa, and all eyes are now on the next edition as the state solidifies its position in the nation’s tennis scene.
