By Don Peter Okoro
In a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship, the Standard Sports Club of Owerri, Imo State, emerged victorious in the 25th Edition of the East of the Niger Inter Club (ENIC) Tennis Tournament. They clinched the top spot by defeating the Onitsha Country Club in a tightly contested final match, relegating them to the second position. Enugu Sports Club and Nnewi Sports Club shared the third position.
Speaking to the press after the intense final, Hon. Dr. Ugochukwu Uzodike, the President of Nnewi Sports Club, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the tournament. He commended the players for their exemplary conduct throughout the event, emphasizing the importance of magnanimity in victory and gracious acceptance in defeat, highlighting that there’s always another opportunity.
Also sharing his thoughts, Dr. Chukwujekwe Emeka, the Vice President of Nnewi Sports Club and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee for the tournament, shed light on the significance of ENIC Tennis Tournament. He explained that ENIC, which stands for East of the Niger Inter Club Tennis Tournament, is an annual event sponsored by CUTIX Plc, attracting clubs from the South-South and South-East regions. This edition, being the 25th, was hosted by the Nnewi Sports Club.
Dr. Emeka elaborated on the tournament format, which includes group stage matches, knockout rounds, semi-finals, and the grand final. In celebration of the silver jubilee milestone, additional sports such as Badminton, Scrabble, Table Tennis, and Draught were incorporated to enhance the excitement.
Highlighting the essence of the tournament beyond the competition itself, Dr. Emeka emphasized the invaluable networking opportunities it provides. He wished all participants safe travels back to their respective destinations.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries including Mrs. Ijeoma Odunoye, the CEO of CUTIX Plc, who advocated for the tournament to be elevated to a national level. Also in attendance were Hon. Augustine Onyekachukwu Ike, representing Nnewi North in the Anambra State House of Assembly, Amb. Odi Nwosu, Hon. George Adinnu Okezie, Mr. Chikwado Ejimbe (Chidovas), Mr. Agupson, Hon. Paul Muoneke representing the Commissioner for Sports, Rotarian I.K. Osai, and Mr. Wilfred Muoneke, among others.