The Offiong Edem Foundation has launched the sixth edition of its annual Table Tennis Tournament in Calabar, Cross River State, marking a significant milestone in promoting youth talent in the sport. The event, which includes an expanded structure with four age-based categories, offers a total prize pool of N3 million. The foundation, led by Offiong Edem, a five-time Olympian currently based in the United States as a coach, aims to support young players lacking access to proper training resources and equipment. The tournament announcement came during a press briefing held in Calabar on Wednesday. Edem explained that the addition of a new category, Under 11 years, was prompted by the high number of young participants. Previously, the competition featured three divisions, but the surge in entries from children aged seven to eight led to the decision to expand the structure. Now, the tournament will include Under 11, Under 13, Under 15, and a Youth Open category. During the event, Edem distributed over 50 sets of rackets and other essential playing gear to young athletes, adult players, and coaches. She emphasized that providing such equipment is crucial for nurturing talent in regions where access to quality sports infrastructure is limited. “This is a way of supporting young talents who lack access to quality equipment and facilities,” she stated. Edem, a former national champion, spoke candidly about her personal journey in table tennis, recalling the challenges she faced in Nigeria while starting out as a player. She noted a marked improvement in the skill level of current participants compared to previous years and urged the government to take a more active role in developing the sport. “I am just trying to build more Offiong Edems, because I started from here,” she said. “If these young people can play in this kind of environment, and they are playing so well; if the government should try to push, do a little bit, I think they will go far.” In addition to the expanded tournament format, the foundation has committed to personally sponsoring three standout players to compete in national-level competitions twice annually. This initiative aims to provide greater visibility and opportunities for emerging talent. For the 2024 edition, the prize money has been increased by 15 percent, bringing the total amount to N3 million, which will be distributed across all four categories. Edem's efforts have been ongoing since the inception of the tournament, which began six years ago. Each year, the foundation seeks to identify promising players and offer them the tools necessary to thrive in competitive environments. Her work extends beyond the tournament itself, encompassing mentorship programs and community engagement initiatives designed to foster long-term growth in the sport. The foundation's activities align with broader goals of encouraging youth participation in sports and addressing systemic barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. By combining financial support with hands-on coaching and advocacy, Edem hopes to create a sustainable ecosystem for future generations of table tennis players in Nigeria. The upcoming tournament is set to take place in Calabar, drawing participants from across the country. With the expanded categories and increased prize money, the event promises to be one of the largest and most competitive yet. As preparations continue, local officials and sports enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to witness the next wave of talent emerge on the table tennis scene.
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