Former Chairman of Gombe State Sports Commission, GSSC, Dr. Larry Daniel has charged the youths in his state to avoid the use of drugs but rather pursue careers in sports.
He gave this advise on Wednesday during an interview on Radio Nigeria programme in Abuja.
His words, “I want to charge the youths of Gombe to stay away from hard drugs which can damage their health. The athletes in the State should be more interested and committed in the pursuit of sporting careers that will leave a lasting legacy in the years to come,” Hon. Daniel noted.
He continued, “The reward for their labour will surely come, but they should be reminded that diligence and commitment remain the focal point to their drive. They should desist from getting involved in any drug related deals, as it is capable of damaging their self worth and reputation.”
Former player cum administrator however noted that issues of quick fix and over reliance on big names are some of the factors bedeviling football and other sports development in thr State that need to be urgently addressed.
He further charged them to be result oriented, develop cohesive approaches in blending and building synergy among themselves, while stressing that it is only on such occasion that results can begin to turn in.
Hon. Daniel also said, “Now we believe in big names when we are supposed to be doing it from the grassroot, when you want teams to last, and when you want teams to bring out results they must stay together for at least 3-4 years”
He continued, “Let me use Manchester City as a case study. They won the English Premier League, EPL last season, any team that will beat them in the next 2-3 years will find it very difficult because they have being together for long.
“And even the Super Eagles, we are facing problem. Three or four days to a crucial match, we will call them together for training. People from different clubs, where is the blending? Where is the staying together? no teamwork and we want result.”
Dr. Larry concluded by saying, in those days, they use to have real commitment. “We stay together with one mind, and not playing because of the money involved but the pride in wearing the jersey. Do you know what it means to be chosen amongst millions of Nigerians, that alone is enough respect and pride.”
