By Vivian Ahanmisi
The Lagos schools tennis tournament organised by Ayida Foundation on Thursday entered its second day with thrilling matches in the U-12, U-14 and U-16 categories.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that boys and girls displayed remarkable passion and confidence on court, comfortably dispatching their opponents in tightly contested matches.
The five-day tournament, which started on Oct. 15, will run until Oct. 19, featuring competitive matches, a Children’s Tennis Clinic, and a Family Day at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, Lagos.
The tournament, with the theme: “Serving Rising Champs”, features over 250 young players from schools within and outside Lagos State, competing in the U-12, U-14, U-16, and U-18 categories.
The event is designed to encourage broader participation in the sport and foster a sense of community among players, parents, and supporters.
The tournament is organised in memory of late Allison Ayida, a tennis pioneer, by his family, who are dedicated to continuing his legacy of promoting tennis in Nigeria through love, service, and excellence.
The tournament has recorded a higher turnout compared to the previous edition, with improved prize structure and participation from schools outside Lagos.
11-year-old Nigerian tennis sensation, Mofifunoluwa Atilola, expressed her delight in the tournament, describing it as a valuable platform for her growth and development as a tennis player.
According to Atilola, the tournament has provided her with a valuable opportunity to develop her skills and gain confidence on the court.
Atilola had also claimed gold in the U-16 category at the prestigious Issa Junior Championship.
She has risen to prominence in junior tennis. With over 30 titles to her name and numerous accolades, she is recognised as one of Nigeria’s top young athletes, inspiring many with her dedication and achievements in the sport.
Atilola, ranked fourth highest U-14 player in Nigeria and 73rd in Africa. She is dominant force in Nigerian tennis having claimed 23 titles between 2021 and 2024.
Winner of several prestigious tournaments, including the 2024 CBN Junior Open U-14 and the Sapetro Futures Tennis Championship.
NAN reports that Daniel Igbinovia triumphed over Salau Ramadan 10-5, while Godwin Obji edged out Khalid Dosumu 11-9 to progress.
Chisimdi Afammbonu overpowered Eunice Chinoso 4-0, to also reach the second round of the U-12 girls’ singles event.
In the U-14 boys’ matches, Michael Osagie thrashed David Joseph 10-4, while Okandeji Mohammed beat Tobi Taye 10-4 to progress.
Tiffany Osho secured a spot in the next stage with a thrilling 4-1, 5-4 win over Maisara Jimoh.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran