30 Referees Receive National Grade 3 Certificates Following Volleyball Referees Course
By Marvelous Ezenwa
In an important milestone for volleyball development in Nigeria, 30 referees were awarded national Grade 3 certificates after successfully completing a 10-day Volleyball Referees Course. The course, which ran parallel to a coaching program, offered participants the chance to hone their officiating skills and elevate the standards of professionalism within the sport. This achievement marks a new era for the referees, equipping them to contribute significantly to volleyball matches and tournaments across the country.
The closing ceremony was a proud moment not only for the participants but also for the broader sports community in Anambra State. The Nigeria Volleyball Association honored Hon. Patrick Estate Onyedum, Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission, for his exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing sports in the state. The award, presented by Mohammed Mohammed, highlighted Onyedum’s key role in promoting volleyball as a prominent sport in Anambra. Emeka Obidimma, Director of Sports, accepted the award on Onyedum’s behalf and pledged continued efforts to boost volleyball and other sports.
Chief Onyemachi lamented that the reluctance of the south east to engage actively in volleyball contributes to the regions diminishing influence in national sporting circles, Nonetheless he remains hopeful that this training course will strengthen the presence of volleyball in Anambra and wider south east.
He plead to Anambra State sports development commission to continue and to engage our states sports directors to see how the south east will grow in volleyball.
Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo was also praised during the event for his consistent support of sports development in the state. His administration’s focus on youth empowerment through sports has become a defining feature of his leadership. Governor Soludo’s vision for a thriving sports culture has opened doors for athletes, referees, and coaches to reach new heights of excellence, reflecting his broader commitment to youth development.
Under Governor Soludo’s leadership, Anambra State has become a leader in sports initiatives, with volleyball gaining particular attention. His administration’s investments in grassroots sports and infrastructure have paved the way for athletes and officials to thrive. The recent certification of these referees underscores his dedication to fostering talent and professionalism across all levels of sports.
As Anambra continues to grow as a sports powerhouse, the certification of these 30 referees is a clear indicator of the state’s readiness to shine on national and international stages. With the support of visionary leaders like Governor Soludo and Hon. Onyedum, the future of volleyball and other sports in the state remains bright.
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