The National Under 18 Women’s Handball team has returned to Lagos for the final phase of preparation ahead of the IHF Women’s Under 18 World Championship in China. The team, coached by Shittu Adewunmi Agboola, began their intensive training camp in Benin City, Edo State, with eighteen players gearing up for the global event scheduled to take place in Chuzhou, China, from August 14 to 25, 2024.
Coach Shittu expressed satisfaction with the initial phase of the camp, describing it as a rewarding experience for both the players and the technical crew. He extended his gratitude to the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), led by Mr. Samuel Ocheho, for their unwavering support in ensuring optimal preparation for the world championship.
“The first phase of training in Benin City was rewarding and worthwhile, not just for the players but also for the technical crew. We thank the Samuel Ocheho-led Handball Federation of Nigeria board for ensuring that we get the best preparation ahead of the world championship,” said Coach Shittu.
The team has now relocated to the Rowe Park Sports Center in Lagos to finalize their preparations. This last phase of camping aims to fine-tune their strategies and ensure they are in peak condition for the championship.
Nigeria secured their spot in the world championship by qualifying for the first time at the Africa Women’s Under 18 Handball Nations Cup in Monastir, Tunisia, last year. They further demonstrated their prowess by finishing second globally in the IHF Trophy series, positioning themselves as one of the most exciting teams to watch in the upcoming tournament.
The Nigerian U18 girls team will face formidable opponents in Group B, including European giants Croatia and Montenegro, as well as African rivals Angola. The world championship will commence on August 18 at the Olympic Sports Center in Chuzhou, China.
As the team prepares to make history on the global stage, the support from the HFN and the dedication of the coaching staff and players underscore Nigeria’s commitment to excelling in international handball.
