Handball Tourney: HFN Advises Clubs On Preparation

The Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) has advised clubs
for the 34th Africa Club Championships in Tangier, Morocco, to use the
postponement of the championships to prepare adequately.

The President of HFN, Yusuf Dauda, told newsmen on Wednesday
in Lagos that the championships were earlier scheduled to hold from October 18
to 29.

Dauda, said that it had been postponed indefinitely because
of the 18th Congress of the Africa Handball Confederation (CAHB).

“I am aware of the championships postponement. It is an
opportunity for the participating teams to beef up their training to make sure
that all their wings are flaw-free,’’ he said.

Dauda disclosed that four teams, two male and two female,
would represent the country at the tournament.

The teams are Niger United of Minna, Safety Shooters of
Abuja, Grasshoppers of Owerri and Owena Queens of Akure.

The HFN boss noted that the event was important to the
federation because it would boost Nigeria’s ranking in African Handball

“We have a lot to gain because apart from our players
gaining exposure, it will also increase our ranking in Africa as the championships
are being organised by the CAHB,” he added.

Dauda disclosed that the federation had taken steps to get
sponsors, to enable the teams to compete at the annual championships.

According to him, the federation has written letters to some
organisations for assistance and we will also approach some state governors for
sponsorships.

Dauda also expressed optimism that the teams would improve
on their 2011 performances which, he said, was not too good.