The Ardova Handball Premier League is gearing up for an exciting second phase, with all 22 participating teams expected to arrive in Lagos on Tuesday. This phase commences on Wednesday and will continue until December 8. Following the conclusion of the first phase held in Benin, Edo State, the matches will be hosted at two prominent venues: the National Institute of Sports hall and the Rowe Park Sports Centre in Yaba. This transition represents a critical juncture in the league, where teams will vie for crucial points in a competitive environment.
In the men’s category, the top-ranked Tojemarine Academy stands out as a team to watch. With a current record of 33 points, they are leading the league and will face off against the Corrections Boys, who sit in seventh place. Tojemarine Academy’s success thus far puts pressure on them to maintain their dominance during this phase. Following closely behind, the Rima Strikers, with 29 points, are eager to narrow the gap as they prepare for their upcoming match against De Defenders. Meanwhile, Niger United, positioned at a lower point on the table, will look to improve their fortunes in their match against the Sunshine Kings, who currently occupy the tenth spot.
On the women’s side of the league, the defending champions, Safety Babes, continue to display remarkable form, remaining unbeaten for over two years. They currently lead the women’s category with 27 points and will face the Rivers Queens, who sit in sixth place. The performance of Safety Babes is a testament to their consistency and skill, and they will aim to solidify their position as they enter the second phase. Hot on their heels are the Defender Babes, positioned second in the standings with 23 points, who will face off against the Rima Queens, currently fourth. The women’s matches promise to be equally thrilling, with each matchup holding the potential for surprises.
In anticipation of this competitive phase, the Handball Federation of Nigeria has taken a proactive approach by releasing the schedule of fixtures well ahead of time. This decision is aimed at equipping teams with the necessary information to prepare effectively for the matches. Shina Sanya, the tournament director, emphasized the importance of having a structured timetable in place, allowing teams adequate time to plan their strategies, travel arrangements, and overall preparation. Sanya’s foresight is expected to facilitate smoother logistics and ensure that all teams are ready to compete at their highest potential.
As the teams prepare for the second phase, the administrative side of the league is also crucial for ensuring a successful tournament. By organizing a technical meeting prior to the matches, the league officials aim to set clear expectations and guidelines for the teams. This meeting will not only serve to confirm match details but also foster a spirit of sportsmanship and professionalism among the participants. With teams arriving from various regions, this collective gathering will also contribute to building camaraderie within the league.
With the second phase of the Ardova Handball Premier League set to commence, both excitement and anticipation are building among players, coaches, and fans alike. The outcomes of these matches will be significant, as the league champions in both the men’s and women’s categories will be determined by the end of this phase. This tournament not only highlights the talent present in Nigerian handball but also serves as a platform for further development of the sport in the country, setting the stage for future competitions and fostering a deeper love for handball among fans.
