By Hananeel Jackson

Ahead of the sixth edition of the National Youth Games slated for Ilorin, Kwara State from 10th to 19th of October, 2021, Zonal Elimination Competitions have started at the six regions of the country.

The Zonal Elimination for Team Sports began from September 3rd and will end on 7th September, 2021 to qualify for the National Youth Games.

Team Bayelsa contingent of 160 athletes and officials departed the state capital in high spirit and great expectations of impressive performance as in previous editions.

The showpiece is expected to feature six states in the South South region which includes Rivers, Akwa Ibom ,Cross River, Bayelsa , Edo and Delta States.

The Bayelsa State team will be going into the elimination series with the hope of replicating the feat achieved in the National Sports Festival in Benin City, Edo State and the State Handball team’s scintillating performance in the National Division one play offs in Benin City as well as Bayelsa United and Bayelsa Queens brilliant outing in the Aiteo Cup last month.

Addressing the contingent at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa before their departure for Asaba, Commissioner for Sports Development, Daniel Igali represented by the Director of Sports, Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi advised the young athletes to adhere to the rules and compete as champions which Bayelsa is known for.

While emphasizing the need for discipline and composure in the games Sir Wodi reminded the athletes that they would compete against Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo and Cross River States, urging them to display the spirit of fair play alongside courage.

Team Bayelsa will participate in seven sports namely: Football, Basketball, Cricket, Handball,Beach Volleyball, Hockey and Volleyball in the Delta State capital.