A volleyball coach, Stephen Peter, has urged government and stakeholders to support grassroots volleyball development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Peter, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police and coach of NY Spikers, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday that poor infrastructure and inadequate funding were hindering the growth of young players.
“We urgently need intervention. Talents abound here, but without facilities, their potential may never be realized,” he said.
He identified the incomplete female court as a major challenge, estimating that it would cost between N8 million and N9 million to complete.
“Our female court is a priority. Without it, training remains difficult, especially for our girls who deserve equal opportunities,” Peter said.
He added that the high cost of volleyballs and other equipment had placed a financial burden on the club, which relies on personal funding.
“A single ball costs about N150,000. We fund everything ourselves because we have no sponsors,” he said.
Peter said the club also struggled to provide jerseys, footwear and kits for teenage players, noting that this affected their morale and performance.
“These children are committed, but lack of basic kits affects their morale and performance,” he said.
“In spite of the challenges, the club has produced players who have represented Nigeria at national and international levels.
“We have success stories. Some of our players now compete nationally and abroad, which shows what proper support can achieve,” he said.
He cited Rahmatu Ismail and Pamela Bawa as products of the club who are excelling at the continental level.
“These players started here. With better support, we can produce even more champions.”
Peter emphasized the role of the club in youth development and social engagement.
“We are keeping young people away from crime and drugs by engaging them in sports and discipline.
“We appeal to the FCT Minister and other stakeholders to invest in grassroots sports.
“We need facilities and equipment to build the future of Nigerian volleyball,” he added.
Also speaking, the club captain, Isah Moses, described poor facilities as a major setback.
“Our biggest challenge is lack of standard facilities, including balls, equipment and a functional court,” Moses said.
He noted that the women’s court had been in poor condition for over eight years, adding that about N10 million would be required to fix it.
“Government support will transform our training.
“I appeal to corporate organizations and individuals for assistance.
“We call on organizations and volleyball lovers to support us in developing our facilities,” Moses added.
NAN reports that the appeal underscores the need for increased investment in grassroots sports to nurture talents and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in volleyball globally. (NAN)
