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The inaugural edition of the Rernco Sports Academy Squash Tournament served off Monday at the renowned Ikoyi Club 1938 with 68 players, including 50 men and 18 women, striving for the crown and a $2,000 reward in both the men’s and women’s categories.
This five-day spectacle, featuring a junior training clinic, is a closed satellite event on the PSA World Tour Calendar and will provide players with the opportunity to earn valuable PSA and national ranking points.
Rerhe Idonije, Founder and CEO of Rernco Sports Academy, stated that the tournament aims to be a game-changer for squash in Nigeria, with strategies in place for diverse development programmes. The objective is to elevate squash to one of the country’s top five sports.
“The motivation for us at Rernco is our belief that sports can bridge social inequalities in the lives of children and young people,” she explained. “Moreover, the potential displayed by squash enthusiasts, including players, coaches, and officials, to become world-class athletes is commendable.”
Idonije expressed gratitude to major sponsors such as Zenith Bank, Nestle Nigeria, Nigerian Breweries, Sweet Sensation, and Afrione. “We feel privileged at Rernco to provide a platform where Nigerian squash players can actualise their lofty aspirations,” she added.
Boye Oyerinde, the Nigeria Squash Federation boss, commended the sponsors, stating that their support in bolstering national tournaments will significantly aid the growth of the sport.
In declaring the tournament open, former board member of the NSF Folarin RA Williams lauded the sponsors, noting it is important it incorporated a clinic which he stressed will aid the growth of the sport.
Onas Adegoke, the men’s top seed, is confident about his chances. Asserting his excellent form ahead of the tournament, he proclaimed that he sees no obstacles to claiming the $1,000 prize in the men’s senior division.