30th November, 2012
Elizabeth Ike is representing Plateau State in the female hockey event at the ongoing 18th National Sports Festival, tagged ‘Eko 2012’. In this interview with BIMBO AJAYI, the player spoke about her ambition to don the national colours of Nigeria and her impression of the ongoing games.
How will you rate the hockey event of this games?
I think the standard of hockey at this year’s festival is okay, although it is too early to carry out an assessment or make any judgment about the event. The event is still at an early stage as just a few games have been played. But the standard is still great judging by what we have seen so far. However, I think it is better for us to wait till the end of the games before we make our judgments.
What is your view about feeding and accommodation at the hostels?
These are the areas where I will score the Local Organising Committee very high. In fact, some of my colleagues who were at the Garden City Games and the KADA Games in Kaduna, have said repeatedly that the Eko 2012 is the best as far as feeding and accommodation is concerned. Although the people in this part of the country eat a lot of pepper but the LOC has put us into consideration so that we can enjoy our meals. Aside from this, we were supplied on arrival provisions such as beds, mattresses, buckets and water.
What should fans in Plateau State expect from you?
They should expect the best from us because we have made up our mind not to settle for anything less than the gold medal in this event. Aside from our personal effort we also trained collectively in order to meet our target at the games. Our coaches also tried their best by being thorough with us when we were at the open and close camps. We are fully prepared and I know that we will not go back home empty-handed.
Do you consider yourself good enough to play for the national team?
That is my ultimate plan and I am seriously working towards the goal. I know that it is not easy to break into the national team, but I know that the goal is achievable because some people have done it. That dream is not too tall for me since I am determined to do it. Besides, I know that my chances of breaking into the team is great. I still have many years ahead of me to convince handlers of the team. But I am ready anytime to don the national colours if the coaches feel that my contribution is needed in the team.
How will you rate hockey in Nigeria?
Hockey is below par in Nigeria if we consider what they have in other countries. However, it is a gradual process and it is obvious that we still have a lot of ground to cover as long as we expect Nigeria to join the ranks of the best hockey playing nations in the world. I also think that the sport can place Nigeria on the world map if the government can support it just as it is doing to football.