By Vivian Ahanmisi and Tunmise Omosofe
Bayelsa defeated Lagos 2-1 in the girls’ final of the second National School Volleyball Championship in Lagos on Friday, winning 25-14, 19-25, 15-12.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the final was held at the Nigeria Institute of Sport Hall, National Stadium, Lagos.
Bayelsa secured an impressive win in a keenly contested match, drawing attention as both sides showed determination, but Bayelsa proved more clinical at decisive moments.
The Bayelsa side dominated early exchanges with strong serves, coordinated teamwork and effective attacking play, setting the tone for a gripping encounter.
Bayelsa captain, Karina Stephen, described the victory as a wonderful experience after a fiercely contested final.
“I am very happy we defeated Lagos. It was tough, but we are glad we overcame them,” she said.
The coach, Jeffery Omoruyi, praised his team’s performance and development after the hard-fought victory.
“Playing Lagos was good because of their strong youth development programmes. They are very mobile, but we still secured the win,” he said.
He admitted his side faced challenges, particularly against Lagos’ solid defensive play.
“They defended better than us at times, but we held on to secure victory,” Omoruyi added.
He described the squad as a growing side, citing their experience in youth competitions as key to their progress.
“My team is developing. They have come through the youth games,” he said.
In the male category, Bauchi also defeated Lagos 2-1 to emerge champions.
Bauchi won with set scores of 25-21, 25-12 and 15-9, showing superior coordination and attacking strength.
The victory confirmed Bauchi’s dominance as they outplayed Lagos to claim the title.
President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee, Abu Gumel, described the tournament as an excellent grassroots development platform.
“I am satisfied with the organisation and participation. It will help groom future champions,” he said.
He stressed that grassroots sport remains vital for sustaining Nigeria’s presence at global competitions.
“This development is important because it focuses on nurturing future champions at the grassroots,” Gumel added.
He commended the School Sports Federation of Nigeria for organising the championship, noting it would strengthen the sports structure.
According to Gumel, volleyball is making steady progress, attributing growth to increased support for school sports programmes.
“I am pleased with volleyball’s direction and encourage sustained investment in grassroots competitions,” he said.
President of the Nigeria School Sports Federation, Olabisi Joseph, described the championship as exciting and impactful.
“It has been amazing. We saw skills, joy, interaction and friendships among teams from Bayelsa, Bauchi, Adamawa and Lagos,” she said.
She noted the competition’s growth, with 28 teams participating this year compared to 21 last year.
Joseph said the increased participation raised the level of competition significantly.
She added that Nigeria Volleyball Federation officials commended the quality of play as a solid foundation for talent development.
Joseph emphasised exposing young athletes to competition, noting some participants visited Lagos for the first time.
She said the event provided both sporting and educational experiences for the students.
Outstanding players will be selected to represent Nigeria at the ISF World School Volleyball Championship in China from July 1 to July 10.
Joseph recalled Nigeria finished seventh at the last edition and expressed optimism about improved performance.
She urged corporate bodies, governments and Nigerians to support school sports development.
“Sports instil discipline, teamwork and offer careers in journalism, medicine, administration and business.
“Sustained support will help curb social vices and nurture athletes capable of representing Nigeria internationally,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
