Oyo State Government Hosts Hockey Fiesta in Ibadan with Over 200 Players and 48 Teams
The Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the State Sports Council, kicked off the Hockey Fiesta in Ibadan with a bang. A total of 236 players and 48 teams participated in the event, which was sponsored by Summa Food Limited and organized in partnership with the Rocket Grassroots Sports Foundation.
The main objective of the tournament, according to Oluyemi Siyanbola, the Chairman of the Rocket Grassroots Sports Foundation, was to engage the youth in productive activities and nurture talent from a young age. Siyanbola highlighted the decline in hockey participation in the state and emphasized the importance of reviving the sport.
The tournament featured four categories: Under 12, Under 16, Under 21, Masters, and Veterans. Tunde Ajibike, the General Manager of the state sports council, explained that the event was strategically scheduled during the Easter period to bring together hockey players of all ages and skill levels.
The competition was fierce in all categories, with teams battling it out for the top positions. In the female category, Treasure and Precious teams secured third and second place respectively, while Dynamic Babes emerged as the champions. In the male category, Big Boys claimed the first position, followed by Ronaldo and Ondo Flicks.
The Masters category saw intense competition, with God is Good clinching the top spot, followed by Pablo Squad and Oyo Masters. The tournament not only showcased the talent of the players but also highlighted the importance of promoting hockey sports at the grassroots level.
Overall, the Hockey Fiesta in Ibadan was a resounding success, bringing together players, coaches, and fans to celebrate the sport and discover new talents. The event served as a reminder that hockey is still thriving and relevant in the sporting world.