Ex-international long jumper, Yusuf Alli has sent a special charge out to Nigeria’s athletes preparing for this year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, where he urged them to compete with courage, support one another and reflect attitudes of excellence.
Sports247 reports that Alli, who is now chairman of Nigeria’s Elite Athletes Development And Podium Board, delivered the charge during this year’s contingent’s first official meeting at their pre-competition training base in Aberdeen, Scotland.
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Alli reminded the athletes that success at the highest level requires much more than talent, hence his advice that they must all follow the values of discipline, determination, professionalism and total focus on their preparations for the competition.
He further urged all competitors selected for various events in the Nigerian contingent to observe camp rules diligently, including meal times, training schedules and transportation arrangements, while also reminding them not to forget the need for adequate rest to aid recovery and enhance performances.
The 1990 Commonwealth Games men’s long jump gold medalist in Auckland, New Zealand added: “Success at this level is built on discipline. Every minute matters. Be punctual for meals, respect the bus schedule, arrive early for training and give your body the rest it needs to recover.
“These are not ordinary routines; they are the habits of champions. If we all do the little things right, the medals will take care of themselves. When you wear the colours of Nigeria, you represent more than yourselves … you carry the hopes and pride of millions of Nigerians.
“Compete with courage, support one another and let your conduct, both on and off the field, reflect the excellence our country is known for. We want Team Nigeria to be remembered not only for winning medals but also for professionalism and character.”
