The Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF) believes that the inaugural Lagos International Squash Classics, which began at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, yesterday and ends on May 13, will prepare the country’s players for next year’s Olympic Games and other major international championships.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, NSF’s Technical Director, Yusuf Durosilorun, said the event, an international ranking competition, would pit Nigerian players against the world’s best stars. He added that it would open the window for more Nigerian squash stars opportunity to fight for world ranking points at home.
Also speaking, Chairman, Lagos State Squash Association (LSSA), Tomi Falase, disclosed that participants are expected from England, Germany, France, Egypt and Hong Kong, among others.
Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Oluwatoyin Gafar, said the state government is delighted to be part of the international squash championship, noting that bringing international stars to the state to compete will bring more development to the sport in Nigeria.
He said that 24 men and 16 women are expected to participate in the event, which has cash rewards for winners.
