Stella Azih, the head coach of Delta Force, has shared insights into the challenges faced by the Delta State Handball Team and the hard work put in to avoid relegation.
Since assuming the role of head coach on November 1st 2024, following the retirement of her predecessor, Azih has been working diligently with the team.
Reflecting on her experience, Azih noted significant improvements within the team, attributing it to the integration of younger players and a united coaching crew.
“A lot of our old players have been laid off, and we brought in younger players. With the help of our coaching crew and the respect and coordination among the players, we have moved higher this time around,” she said to Sports247.
Despite initial coordination issues in the first phase, the team has now found its rhythm. “In the first phase, there was no real coordination, but this time around, we put our hands on deck to ensure the team goes higher and avoids relegation,” Azih explained.
Last year, the team finished in fifth place, highlighting the need for continued improvement.
Azih emphasized the importance of early camping and proper equipment for better performance. “Last time, there was not much camping, but this time we had about four weeks and some days of internal camping, which helped the team blend,” she explained.
She also noted that grassroots development is crucial for the sport’s growth and called for the empowerment of grassroots coaches with necessary equipment like balls, canvas shoes, and goal posts.
“Empowering grassroots coaches and providing them with the right equipment will help grow the sport,” she said.
Addressing the challenges of bringing players together from different local governments, Azih highlighted the need for collective effort and sacrifice from both coaches and players.
“We train every day but bringing them together from various local governments requires a collective response,” she stated.
Azih’s extensive experience in sport underscores her commitment to developing and improving the Delta State Handball Team.
Having started her handball career in 1985, she played in Lagos State before moving to Delta State in 1994, where she transitioned to coaching.
Azih also emphasized the need for better support and infrastructure from the new sports commission to ensure the sport’s prominence in Nigeria.
“There are lots of challenges in sports, and handball is no exception. If the sports commission can help with infrastructure and equipment, it will make a big difference,” she stated.
Azih’s dedication and strategic approach aim to keep Delta Force out of relegation and improve their standing in future competitions.
