NEWS DIGEST – The Nigeria Squash Federation (NSF) on Monday says Professional Squash Association (PSA) has listed the 2018 edition of the Lagos International Squash Classics in its calendar.
A statement by the federation President, Boye Oyerinde, said that the listing was as a result of the successful hosting of previous editions of the classic sponsored by Lagos State Government.
“As a PSA listed tournament, the Lagos International Squash Classics is a world ranking event where players can amass points for their global rating.
“Despite not staging the 2017 edition, the world body decided to list the tournament following the overwhelming commendations that followed the previous editions attended by top players across the globe.
“The $20,000 prize money tournament will hold this year at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium,’’ Oyerinde said.
The championship is scheduled to hold from March 19 to March 24.
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He said that the men’s category winner will get $15,000, while the women will be aiming for the $5000 prize money.
Meanwhile Nigerian based players have commenced preparation for the tournament.
Nigeria’s number one male player, Sodiq Taiwo said that with adequate preparation, local players have the ability to halt the dominance of the foreign players.
“I think there is nothing stopping the local players from winning the title this year as we are all aiming to ensure that the foreigners do not come again and take away the titles.
“There is no doubt that the difference between local and foreign players is exposure, but for me, I am sure that with good preparation and focus, we can rule the event this year,” Taiwo said.
The 2017 Zimbabwe Open champion, however, commended Lagos state government for keeping faith with the tournament.
“I must commend the Lagos state government for their interest in squash and this is another opportunity for players, particularly local players to improve their world ranking.
“Because every player that takes part in the championship will amass points for participation. I hope and believe they can continue and this can become a regular event on the PSA calendar,” he said.
