By Ikemefuna Asika
Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has called for the revival of school sports in Nigeria as it serves as the starting point of sports development.
The call is contained in their 13 point communique issued at the end of their convention which took place during the 8th National Youth Games at Stephen Keshi stadium, Asaba, Delta State.
The convention which was presided over by the National President of SWAN, Isaiah Benjamin,
SWAN called for a revisit of the national sports policy to guarantee sustainability of progress in the sector.
They commended the Delta State government for successful hosting of 8th edition of the games and showing demonstrable commitment towards sports development in Nigeria.
On the proposal hinted by the Minister of Sports Development for a possible return to U-17 years age bracket for the Youth Games as against the present U-15, SWAN called for a proper consideration of the pros and cons of the idea.
They called on the Sports Ministry to develop and apply scientific and global standard for a strengthened screening system to check and eliminate age cheating issues.
Part of the communique also states that
“SWAN called for consistency on the part of sports federations to ensure that the equivalent of equipment used for training are used for the competition proper.
“The Convention observed with concern the complaints emanating from coaches and officials with regards to alleged acts of unfairness and favouritism which often spark controversy in some Sports Federations.”
SWAN also called on the Sports Ministry and Sports federations to
develop an effective database to serve as reference points and comparison for athletes and their performance records.
The body of Sports Writers also called on States to prioritize youth games as breeding ground for talent hunt. This is in reaction to States that did not take part or sent few athletes to the games.
The Convention called on both federal and state to set up insurance scheme and pay greater attention to the plight of veteran national athletes who in most cases are not able to meet their needs and medical bills in their later years.
They equally advised active athletes to complement their earnings with education to enable them better secure their wealth considering the short span of their earning period.
