National Competition Excites Badminton Players

Badminton players in the country have expressed joy
following the confirmation by the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) to
finally organise the Third Abuja National championships.

Some of the players who spoke on telephone over the
development said that they were happy because they had been training for many
months, without any competition.

For most, the Third Abuja National championships would
refresh their talents, while it would be the first attempt at a championship,
for others.

A Kogi-born player, Eneojo Abah said that he was happy that
there was going to be a competition after a long time, noting that tournaments
enhanced the development of athletes and coaches.

“I am happy that we are finally getting a championship after
a long period and I know that every player and coach will be glad.

“The growth of athletes and coaches are greatly influenced
by competitions. I know that the turnout will be immense because this is part
of what we have all been training for,’’ he said.

A female player, Susan Ideh said she was also excited about
the National Open Championships, saying open championships have not been held
by the federation for some time.

“I really do not have much to say except that I am happy. We
all have been looking forward to the day the national open will be organised because
it gives us room to work on our defects.

“It also allows us to meet new and upcoming players from all
parts of the country,’’ she said.

Ideh, who said that she would not participate in the singles
event, expressed the hope of winning Gold in the doubles and mixed doubles
events.

A Taraba State player, Ifraimu Jinkam said that the national
championship was a good development for him as he had not participated in any
tournament, this year.

He said that he was looking forward to the championships, as
young and old players would be able to meet in Abuja to showcase their talents
and endeavour to improve themselves.

“It will be an opportunity for new and inexperienced players
to match themselves against older and experienced players.

“Organising regular competitions will help players and
coaches to improve themselves,” he said.

Reacting to the excitement of the players, Secretary of BFN,
Amechi Akawo, said: “We just have some tidying up to do and then, we can fix a
date.

“We will definitely organise the championships by September
or October, at the farthest. We want the championships to be memorable,’’ he
added