An athletics coach from Bayelsa State, Richard Torugbene has sent out a deeply emotional and passionate appeal to people in authority to kindly give him the recognition he deserves.
Sports247 reports that Torugbene disclosed that he has spent several years toiling to produce track and field talents for the state and Nigeria as a whole, but there is nothing concrete to show for his efforts.
The vastly experienced yet largely embattled gaffer made his stand in a post via WhatsApp, which he used to bare his troubled thoughts regarding what he referred to as his ‘thankless journey in Nigerian athletics.’
Torugbene stated at length that he is always troubled when he looks back at the efforts he has put into training budding talents, but he is yet to gain any commensurate state or federal appointment worthy of his status.
“For many years, I have dedicated myself to discovering, training and mentoring athletes who have gone on to represent our nation with pride. My passion has always been to contribute to the growth and development of athletics in Nigeria, and I have served with commitment, sacrifice, and integrity.
“However, despite my years of service and the contributions I have made, I have not been given the opportunity to participate in any local or international assignments. It is disappointing to feel that merit and dedication are sometimes overshadowed by politics,” Torugbene averred.
The highly resourceful and tireless tactician went on to reel out the names of his products who were part of Team Nigeria’s recent hunt for medals at the recent Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland and others who will this week compete at the World U20 Athletics Championship in Nairobi, Kenya.
“For example, at the World U-20 Championships, I am privileged to have four athletes whom I personally trained, developed and selected to represent Nigeria: Tejiri Godwin (100m), Faye Perfect (200m and 4×100m relay), Precious Opinion (triple jump), Faith Ezechukwu (400m and 4×400m relay).
“Seeing these athletes wear the national colors is a source of immense pride and a testament to the years of hard work, dedication, and commitment invested in their development.
“While I celebrate their achievements wholeheartedly, I also believe that coaches who consistently produce athletes for national teams deserve recognition and opportunities to contribute at both local and international levels.
Recognizing the efforts of grassroots coaches will strengthen the future of athletics in Nigeria and inspire many more to continue developing young talents,” Torugbene suggested.
He, however, clarified that there is no hatred in his heart nor malice against anyone in power, even as he expressed optimism that the current situation in Nigeria will soon transform into one in which merit will be the basic yardstick in giving appointments to people in sports.
Torugbene concluded with a pledge to continue working hard and assured that he will never relent in his passion for grooming talents, but stressed that the system should recognise coaches according to their proven technical abilities.
“This is not a message of bitterness, but a sincere appeal for fairness, transparency and equal opportunities for every coach who has worked tirelessly to develop athletes and advance Nigerian sports.
“When those who have invested their lives in building talent are recognized based on their contributions, our sports will continue to grow stronger. I remain committed to developing young athletes and serving Nigerian athletics with excellence.
“I hope the future brings a system where hard work, competence, and dedication are valued above every other consideration. Thank you, and may God bless Nigerian athletics.
I remain committed to serving Nigerian athletics and nurturing the next generation of champions,” Torugbene submitted.
