Former athletes of the International School, University of Lagos (ISL), have proudly inaugurated two newly renovated basketball courts at the university’s Sports Centre.
These passionate students united in their efforts to contribute to the development of sports within the school while also paying tribute to their beloved coach, Ernest Ijeoma, who mentored them during their time at ISL.
The Project Coordinator, Olakale Lipede, emphasized that this project was a testament to the former students’ commitment to empowering and enhancing youth sports.
He acknowledged that ISL has always been a dominant force in basketball and expressed their desire to maintain that reputation. Lipede fondly reminisced about his own experiences at ISL, where the court became a haven and a motivation for him to attend school daily.
He highlighted the significance of sports as an avenue for building self-esteem alongside the academic offerings of the institution.
Lipede further revealed the financial support provided by the former students in renovating the basketball courts. In 2020, a group of nine former students raised N1.7 million to initiate the refurbishment of the first court.
Subsequently, in 2022, 68 former students contributed N9.1 million towards the renovation of the second court, ensuring it met international standards.
Representing the University of Lagos Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folasade T. Ogunsola, Mr. Sola Kuti expressed his admiration for the former students’ initiative and their acknowledgment of Coach Ijeoma’s pivotal role in their basketball journeys.
Kuti commended the donors for their dedication to their alma mater and their commitment to excellence, as evidenced by the high-quality outcome of the court renovations. He highlighted the fact that these individuals could have utilized their resources for personal endeavors but chose to give back to ISL because of their profound love for the school and Coach Ijeoma.
Coach Ijeoma, visibly moved by the honor bestowed upon him and the school, expressed his gratitude towards his former students.
Overwhelmed by the unexpected project, he joyfully recounted how former athletes from various corners of the globe, including Canada, Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, actively participated in the renovation efforts.
He extended his heartfelt appreciation to God and singled out Olakale Lipede, an athletic member and basketball player during his coaching tenure, as the driving force behind the project.
The commissioning of the newly renovated basketball courts stands as a testament to the enduring bond between ISL’s former athletes and their alma mater. Through their contributions, these individuals have exemplified the spirit of giving back and a commitment to excellence.
The enhanced facilities not only provide an avenue for current and future students to hone their sporting skills but also serve as a tribute to the coach who inspired their love for the game. The ISL community celebrates this remarkable achievement, marking a significant milestone in the school’s rich sporting legacy.
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