Coach decries poor infrastructure in grassroots volleyball

A volleyball coach, Stephen Peter, has urged government and stakeholders to support grassroots volleyball development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Peter, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police and coach of NY Spikers, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday that poor infrastructure and inadequate funding were hindering the growth of young players. […]

A volleyball coach, Stephen Peter, has urged government and stakeholders to support grassroots volleyball development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Peter, a retired Deputy Superintendent of Police and coach of NY Spikers, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday that poor infrastructure and inadequate funding were hindering the growth of young players.

“We urgently need intervention. Talents abound here, but without facilities, their potential may never be realised,” he said.

He identified the incomplete female court as a major challenge, estimating that it would cost between N8 million and N9 million to complete.

“Our female court is a priority. Without it, training remains difficult, especially for our girls who deserve equal opportunities,” Peter said.

He added that the high cost of volleyballs and other equipment had placed a financial burden on the club, which relies on personal funding.

“A single ball costs about N150,000. We fund everything ourselves because we have no sponsors,” he said.

Peter said the club also struggled to provide jerseys, footwear and kits for teenage players, noting that this affected their morale and performance.

“These children are committed, but lack of basic kits affects their morale and performance,” he said.

NAN reports that the appeal underscores the need for increased investment in grassroots sports to nurture talents and enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in volleyball globally. (NAN)