No fewer than 35 players, aged between nine and 19, are training at the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation’s national camp ahead of three international tournaments in Ghana and Guinea.
The camp is holding at Babcock University, Ogun, with support from the institution’s management led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Afolarin Ojewole.
The training prepares players physically, technically, and mentally for the Africa Hopes Week and Challenge, West African Regional Championships, and African Youth Championships.
themomentng reports that Coach Dotun Omoniyi and four other coaches supervise the programme involving 18 girls and 17 boys.
The players undergo intensive daily training, tactical drills and competitive matches designed to sharpen their skills and improve performances before the continental competitions.
Ojewole praised the players’ discipline, commitment and talent, describing the camp as consistent with Babcock University’s holistic approach to education and sports.
“Babcock University is always committed to training the heart, the head and the hands.
“We believe in the holistic development of individuals, and skills are an important part of training the heart,” he said.
Ojewole said sports promote physical fitness, improve academic performance and help develop responsible, well-rounded leaders.
“The discipline, determination, desire to win and spirit of sportsmanship are qualities the world needs today.
“Losing is part of winning, which is why sports have an important place at Babcock University,” he said.
According to him, hosting the national camp reflects the university’s commitment to youth development and advancing sports in Nigeria.
NTTF President Adesoji Tayo said the camp would become a regular initiative, with plans to make Babcock a permanent national training base.
“This campus is beautiful and away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, making it an ideal environment for these children.
“Babcock provides good food, proper nutrition and excellent support. The university has taken outstanding care of the players,” Tayo said.
He said the players had received quality accommodation, transport, medical care and access to excellent training facilities throughout the camp
“The hall is excellent, the equipment is of high quality and that is why we chose Babcock,” he said.
Tayo noted that Babcock’s successful hosting of athletes during the National Sports Festival demonstrated its capacity to support elite sporting programmes.
He reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to creating opportunities for young players to gain international exposure and compete at the highest level.
“Regular camps and quality training programmes will strengthen Nigeria’s future in table tennis,” he said.
Tayo expressed confidence the players would perform well in Ghana and Guinea, saying the camp had improved their skills, experience, and confidence ahead of competition.
