By Gbenga Sodeinde
Following the conclusion of the 6th edition of the National Youth Games in Ilorin, Kwara State, Team Ekiti has returned with 13 medals comprising 2 gold, 9 silver and 2 bronze to finish 16th out of 36 states and the FCT on the overall medals table.
It was the first time the Acting General Manager of Ekiti State Sports Council , Mr Adekunle Adeyemi would lead Team Ekiti to a major national sporting assignment.
Mr Adeyemi who spoke with Goalgetter Media described the 2021 National Youth Games as a great privilege to contribute his expertise and professionalism towards writing the name of Ekiti state in gold through sports among committee of states in the country.
He expressed delight at the level of comportment decency and decorum at the Team Ekiti camp while the Youth Games lasted saying all the athletes were worthy ambassadors of the state in character and professional conduct.
The Acting General Manager who highlighted the medal winning games said finishing among the best 16 in the country required herculean task and dedication from the athletes and officials even as he applauded the fighting spirit of Ekiti athletes in virtually all the games.
He informed Goalgetter Media that it was fulfilling for Ekiti state to have won medals in games like cricket, tennis, para-athletics and weightlifting out of the 9 games that Ekiti state contested at the NYG 2021.
Mr Adeyemi also gave kudos to coaches and organizers who inspired the athletes in each game before, during and after every event stressing that the impact of their contributions was unquantifiable.
He thanked the state governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi for his administration’s support towards youth and sports development especially by funding state athletes participation in national sporting competitions like the National Youth Games.
He assured the athletes that the state governor will continue to encourage youths’ participation in sports.
The Acting General Manager also thanked the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development , Hon Micheal Awopetu as well as the Chairman, Mrs Olusola Osetoba and Board Members of Ekiti State Sports Council for their sacrifices and commitment towards improving the state of sports in Ekiti.
