The Edo State Sports Commission is making extensive preparations for the upcoming 2023 National Youth Games, set to commence in Asaba, Delta state, on September 20.
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Athletes and officials have been gathered and are currently in camp at Etete, GRA, to undergo intensive training and preparations.
Speaking on behalf of Team Edo’s readiness for the Seventh National Youth Games, Mr. Charity Igbinosa, the state Director of Sports Development and Operations, highlighted that the two-week camp aims to familiarize young athletes with the necessary equipment and conditions.
He also noted that Olympian Yusuf Alli, the chairman of the Sports Commission, has granted approval for all the resources required to ensure thorough preparations for the Games.
Team Edo is gearing up to send a contingent of approximately 223 athletes and officials to participate in 23 different sports during the event in Asaba.
The 2023 National Youth Games are expected to draw a total of 5,742 registered participants, featuring 34 different sports.
In a related development, athletes have received important advice to stay away from performance-enhancing substances due to their potentially detrimental effects on their future lives.
Dr. Femi Ayorinde emphasized the importance of this message while providing doping enlightenment to coaches and secretaries of the Kwara State Sports Commission.
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Dr. Ayorinde cautioned that the use of banned drugs could lead to various negative consequences, including damage to athletes’ reproductive systems, abnormal behaviors, and serious health issues.
He underscored that all drugs should be regarded as potentially harmful, and athletes must exercise caution to ensure that the substances they use do not contain banned components.
Furthermore, Dr. Ayorinde stressed the importance of obtaining clearance from the anti-doping agency when prescribed new medications from hospitals, as athletes should be aware of the substances they are ingesting.
Lastly, it was made clear that any banned coach found training athletes would face severe consequences, potentially leading to a lifetime ban for both the coach and the athletes under their guidance.
This stern warning underscores the commitment to maintaining a clean and fair sporting environment.
