By Emmanuel Kwada
The sixth edition of the President Beach Volleyball Tournament has officially commenced in Kaduna, with an unprecedented 38 teams battling for honors in the senior and U-17 male and female categories. The tournament, which serves as a platform to boost Nigeria’s chances ahead of the continental competition later this year, has attracted teams from all parts of the country.
The teams arrived in Kaduna on February 16, ahead of the technical session held on February 17 at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium. The session was followed by the colorful opening ceremony, which marked the official commencement of the tournament at the Murtala Mohammed Square multipurpose sports complex.
In an interview with newsmen, Technical Director of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Mr. Martin Melandi, expressed his excitement at the large number of teams participating in this edition. “We are thrilled to see 38 teams competing in this year’s tournament. It’s a testament to the growth and popularity of beach volleyball in Nigeria,” he said.
We want to incentivize our teams to perform at their best, and we believe that the cash prizes will motivate them to give it their all
Melandi also revealed that the top three teams in each category will receive cash prizes for their efforts. “We want to incentivize our teams to perform at their best, and we believe that the cash prizes will motivate them to give it their all,” he added.
The tournament was initially planned to last longer, but it will now end on Friday to allow players representing their states in the National Sports Festival (NSF) Zonal Eliminations to travel back to their stations. “We have to ensure that our players are able to participate in the NSF, so we have adjusted the schedule accordingly,” Melandi explained.
DCP Stephen Hasso (Rtd), a board member of the NVBF, was also impressed by the quality of players at this edition. “The President Beach Volleyball Tournament has over the years developed talents for the country, and I’m excited to see the level of competition this year,” he said.
Beach volleyball is gaining popularity in Nigeria, and we’re seeing more and more people take an interest in the sport
Hasso also highlighted the recent beach volleyball open held in Adamawa State, which attracted several dignitaries, including the Paramount Ruler of Bachama. “Beach volleyball is gaining popularity in Nigeria, and we’re seeing more and more people take an interest in the sport,” he said.
The sixth edition of the President Beach Volleyball Tournament will come to a close on Friday, with the top teams in each category set to receive their cash prizes. The tournament is expected to be a thrilling competition, with teams battling it out for honors and a chance to represent Nigeria at the continental level.
