Yussuf Alli addressing the contingent.

By Jethro Ibileke 

Edo State contingent to the 8th National Youth Games (NYG), on Monday departed Benin City for Asaba, Delta.

This year’s edition of the NYG will be held in Asaba, the Delta State capital from 11 to 19 September.

The State’s contingent made up of 313, comprises 243 athletes, 70 coaches, and 28 sports officers, will represent Team Edo in 31 games at the youth sporting event.

The Chairman of the Edo Sports Commission, Yussuf Alli, in a brief remark before the team’s departure, urged the athletes to remain disciplined and be good ambassadors as they represent the state.

He cautioned the contingent against seeing the competition as a win-at-all-cost engagement, saying there was an honour even in participation.

“Last year we did very well and I am sure this year we will do better. I trust you.

“We are going there to compete, do your best. We as Edo will not cheat, we will perform well. If we win, fine, if we don’t win, no problem.

“Like they always tell me, if you can’t be first, you can be second, if you can be second, you can be third, on and on. But do your best. You have no regrets.

“If you are wearing the Edo colour, you know what it means, winning. So be good ambassadors; have good behaviour.

“Don’t fight anybody, if you have any problem tell your coach, and from there we can now intervene, please.

“I wish you the best of luck. All of us are coming with you, we are all coming together, and we will be there with you throughout,” Alli said.