The Bayelsa State Sports Academy, Asoama, emerged victorious at the South-South Under-15 Hockey Tournament, defeating Edo State 2-1 in a thrilling finale held in Benin City, Edo State. The four-day competition, hosted at St. Maria Goretti School from June 20-24, 2024, aimed to foster young hockey talents and align them with national and international standards.
Initially billed to feature Delta, Edo, Bayelsa, and Rivers States, only Bayelsa and Edo competed after Rivers and Delta withdrew, leaving the stage set for a fierce rivalry. Bayelsa rose to the challenge, clinching the title with determination and skill.
Coach Ogalah Ebimoboere of the Bayelsa Sports Academy lauded the team’s efforts and credited their success to hard work and the Prosperity Administration’s support for grassroots sports development. She emphasized the victory as a testament to the Academy’s commitment to nurturing young athletes.
Head Coach of the Hockey Association, Mr. Sunday Ottiwere, alongside his assistant, Mrs. Osato Precious, expressed optimism for future tournaments, hoping for increased participation from South-South states. The triumph not only brought glory to Bayelsa but also highlighted the region’s growing hockey potential.
This win underscores Bayelsa’s dedication to sports excellence, setting the stage for more successes in the future.
