Sports journalists have been enjoined to be more varsatile and dedicated to the reportage of sporting activities in and outside the country
The President of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Honour Sirawoo, gave the piece of advice in Awka during the just concluded one week event of the Anambra State Chapter of the association.
The weeklong activities included novelty match, walk, symposium, and interaction with stakeholders in the sports sector in the area.
The programme climaxed with award and media night where a few individuals who had distinguished themselves in the world of sports were recognized.
SWAN President, Honor Sirawoo, who was represented on the occasion by the National Vice President of the Association in the South East, Chigozie Chukwulota, called on sports journalists to strive always to grow on the job rather than becoming local champions.
He said that as sports journalists, he said they should try to move round the globe, cover sporting activities in other states of the federation and beyond. Mr Sirawoo urged them to develop their passion.
A veteran sports Journalist and Special Assistant to the Governor of Anambra State on Media, Mr. Tony Nezieanya, in a paper presentation charged SWAN members to be knowledgeable in the rules and regulations involved in the practice of their profession , which I is sports coverage.
Mr. Nezieanya said sports journalists must be in a position to provide authentic information even as he harped on the need for government and clubs to build venues and facilities for sporting events on standard that would nurture sports men and women, especially those at the grassroot.
He told them that there is an absolute need for the sports journalists to raise their levels too, ICT has come with many tools for the practice excellence in sports journalism.
He encouraged all all practicing sports journalists to aspire to cover the World Cup and the Olympic Games, at least once in their lifetime while on the job.
Also speaking, former Super Falcon international, Maureen Madu, in a remark, said there was the need for talent haunt at the grassroots to discover and harness the talents that would push sports in Nigeria to greater heights.
SWAN Chairman in the State, Mr. Tony Orji, commended the Anambra State Sports Commission for their support and the State government for providing a conducive environment for Sports Writers to carryout their duties diligently.
