Ondo State hockey coach, Mark Oloruntola, has praised Abdulbasit Adekunle for his impressive contribution to Nigeria’s bronze-medal finish at the inaugural U-18 Youth Africa Cup in Nairobi, Kenya.
Adekunle was part of the Nigerian contingent that competed at the tournament, which also served as the African continental qualifier for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup scheduled for December 2026.
Speaking with SPORTING HOPE, Oloruntola said he was not surprised by Adekunle’s selection for the national team, describing the youngster as disciplined, hardworking and committed to his development.
He noted that Adekunle had consistently demonstrated good character and determination during training sessions and local competitions, qualities which, according to him, earned the player a place in the national squad.
“On behalf of the Ondo State Government and the Ondo State Sports Council, I congratulate you on this great feat. I am convinced that this is just the beginning of great achievements in your career.
“I will only advise you to remain committed, disciplined and more focused on your training.
“There is no secret to greatness in sport other than hard work and discipline. Your skill can take you up there, but it is only your attitude and discipline that can sustain you,” Oloruntola said.
The U-18 Youth Africa Cup featured Hockey5s matches in both the men’s and women’s categories, with youth teams from Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Uganda taking part.
In the men’s competition, hosts Kenya claimed the gold medal, while South Africa finished with silver and Nigeria took bronze.
South Africa emerged champions in the women’s category, with Kenya winning silver and Nigeria securing bronze.
The tournament provided the continental pathway to the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup, with Kenya and South Africa securing qualification tickets for the global event billed for December 2026.