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By JOE APU
The Eko Club Squash Section will today commence the maiden edition of the Eko Club National U16 & U19 Boys and Girls Squash Tournament at the club’s squash complex in Surulere, Lagos.
The tournament, which ends on Friday, June 28 is being organised in honour of the late Adejuwon Bankole Adenuga, a highly respected figure within the Eko Club Squash Section and a passionate promoter of squash development in Nigeria.
Fondly remembered as “Uncle Ju” by players and friends alike, Adenuga was widely known for his dedication to mentoring young athletes and advancing the sport at grassroots level.
According to the Secretary of the Eko Club Squash Section, Mr. Debo Ogunmuyiwa, the competition serves as both a national sporting event and a tribute to a man whose life embodied sportsmanship, mentorship, and community spirit.
“Uncle Ju was more than just a squash player; he was a true mentor and strategist,” Ogunmuyiwa stated. “He was instrumental in driving developmental programmes such as the ‘Pep Talk for Young Squash Players’ series within the club, and his contribution to building a squash community will never be forgotten. This tournament is a fitting way to honour his legacy.”
Sanctioned by the Nigerian Squash Federation (NSF), the tournament has already recorded 112 entries across all categories via the Nigeria Squash Federation registration portal. A minimum of 85 young players are expected to compete across the U16 and U19 boys and girls divisions, with participants drawn from across the country, including Abia, Bayelsa, Abuja, Akwa Ibom, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Lagos and from various squash academies and clubs nationwide.
Ogunmuyiwa emphasised that the long-term plan is to institutionalise the competition as an annual event, preserving the legacy of the late Adenuga and ensuring continuous youth engagement in squash.
“We are working closely with his family, friends, and well-wishers to make this a lasting memorial,” he explained. “Sustainability is key. We intend to secure corporate sponsorships, attract philanthropic support from alumni and club members, and ensure strong media visibility for the tournament.”
Additional plans include the institution of legacy awards to honour contributors and legendary figures in Nigerian squash, as well as establishing a fixed month annually for the event to ensure consistency and visibility.
The tournament promises not only to showcase some of Nigeria’s best emerging squash talents but also to inspire a new generation of players by reinforcing values of dedication, excellence, and community.
