The recently concluded 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star Tour (phase 1) in Ibadan, Oyo State, showcased the rising prominence of beach volleyball in Nigeria, with Kada Kings and the Nigeria Customs Service emerging as the leading teams. Kada Kings dominated the tournament, winning all six of their matches, while the Nigeria Customs Service remained unbeaten in both the men’s and women’s categories with five victories each. The venue for this exciting competition was the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, which played host to 24 teams from across the nation. These comprised 11 men’s teams in the Open Tour, six men’s teams in the Star Tour, and seven women’s teams in the Star Tour, demonstrating the depth and competitiveness of Nigerian talent in the sport.
DCP Stephen Hasso (RTD), the Chairman of the Control Committee of the Nigeria Beach Volleyball Tour, emphasized that the initiative is fundamentally aimed at preparing Nigerian beach volleyball players for significant international competitions. The tour not only provides a platform for local teams to showcase their ability but also helps identify and nurture talent that can compete at higher levels. Among the participating players are three women who have previously competed in two different Olympic Qualifiers, and several male players with experience in various African Championships. This blend of experience and youthful energy is pivotal for the sport’s growth in the country.
Hasso expressed satisfaction with the performance levels observed throughout the tour. He noted a marked improvement in both younger players’ skills and older players’ strategic gameplay, reflecting a growing appreciation for the sport among Nigerian athletes. The chairman highlighted the importance of continually fostering this growth by ensuring that athletes remain engaged and active through regular competitions. He believes that this consistent involvement is crucial for honing their skills and preparing them adequately for future international tournaments, thereby establishing Nigeria as a formidable player in beach volleyball on the global stage.
The success of this year’s tour is a testament to the investments being made in beach volleyball and the commitment from both players and governing bodies to elevate the game’s status. The presence of competitive teams and the enthusiastic participation of players underscore a collective drive toward excellence in the sport. As the tour concluded, there were high hopes for future editions, with a vision for expanding the tournament and introducing more local teams to the competition, which could possibly lead to even stronger performances in subsequent international events.
In conclusion, the achievements of Kada Kings and Nigeria Customs Service in the 2024 National Beach Volleyball Star Tour shine a light on the promising future of beach volleyball in Nigeria. With continuous support from the governing bodies, players are becoming more prepared for the challenges of international competition. The blend of experienced athletes and fresh talent may very well form the backbone of Nigeria’s representation in future beach volleyball global tournaments, provided that efforts to keep players engaged and improve their skill set remain a priority.
As the Nigerian beach volleyball scene continues to develop, there remains a potent need for support and recognition from stakeholders at all levels, including sponsors and sports enthusiasts. With dedicated effort and strategic planning, the potential for Nigeria to excel in beach volleyball on an international scale is within reach, marking a turning point for the sport’s development in the country.
