Shira Local Government Area defeated Misau Local Government Area 17 to 4 goals in the men’s handball event at the ongoing Bauchi State Sports Festival 2024 on Saturday.
Shira LG consisting of U13 players stole the show against Misau LG in the match played at the outdoor court of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium (ATBS).
Led by coach Reuben Sylvanus, the Shira boys schooled Misau as the first half ended 11 to 2 goals. Upon resumption of the second half, Shira LG relaxed their nerves playing more defensive handball. Misau LG managed to score 2 goals as the games ended 17 to 4 goals.
Speaking with newsmen in Bauchi, head coach of Shira LG, Reuben Sylvanus revealed that the team consists of players between the ages of 10 to 13 years old.
The former U21 player said his main focus is to prepare a solid team for the state ahead of the National Youth Games (preliminaries) coming up next month.
Sylvanus said, “I am happy with the performance of the young boys in their first match. I informed them in the second half not to waste their energy against a weaker side because we still have tougher teams to play.
“I will not put too much pressure on the young boys; I told them to enjoy themselves on the court and play according to instructions. I am building a formidable team for the upcoming preliminaries of the 2024 National Youth Games. I strongly believe that the boys have what it takes to make a huge statement at the national level”.
Meanwhile, Bauchi State Director of Sports, Usman Yusuf explained that coaches are on ground to identify players who can play for the state at the National Youth Games, National Sports Festival and National Handball Championships.
Yusuf said, “The purpose of the festival is to identify potential champions and I can tell you that I have seen some players who will represent the state.
“Bauchi will become the hub of sports in Northern Nigeria and in no time various states will use our model of talent discovery”.
