Lagos, Nigeria – For 16-year-old Angel Okere, what began as a casual after-school activity has quickly grown into a genuine passion. The Queensfield Secondary School, Ikeja student has found her rhythm on the volleyball court, determined to turn her early steps in the sport into something bigger.
“I never imagined I’d enjoy volleyball this much,” Angel said with a bright smile after a recent school practice. “At first, I joined just to try something new, but now it’s one of the best parts of my week.”
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Her school’s volleyball coach, Mr. Adebayo Johnson, said Angel joined the team earlier this year with no prior experience but has shown steady improvement and strong dedication.
“She’s still a beginner, but she’s got the right attitude,” he noted. “Angel listens, learns fast, and gives her best in every game.”
The friendly matches held at the Queensfield sports ground have become her training ground. Angel, who often stays behind after class to practice her serves and passes, says the teamwork keeps her motivated. “I love how everyone supports each other,” she explained. “Even when I make mistakes, my teammates encourage me to keep going.”
Balancing academics and sports isn’t always easy, but Angel manages her time carefully. She hopes to one day represent Lagos State in a junior volleyball competition. “I know I’m still learning,” she admitted, “but I believe with more training and support, I can go far.”
For now, Angel continues to train under the guidance of her coach and dreams of becoming a player young athletes can look up to. Her story reflects the growing enthusiasm for school sports across Lagos — a reminder that even the smallest beginnings can lead to great achievements, and that youth sports are slowly reclaiming their place in Nigerian schools.
