Despite the harsh realities, challenges, and unfavourable conditions, many Nigerian coaches are going out of their way to continue to unearth talents for the country.
Rarely do many get a mention when the glory moments arrive, but they remain fulfilled seeing their hardwork flourishing into something they did not imagine.
For Coach Ayodele Solaja, popularly referred to as Buka T in athletics circles, his joy knows no bounds seeing one of his products, Amusan, become a world record holder and a world champion at the same time.
In this exclusive interview with PREMIUM TIMES, Buka T relives the humble beginning of Oluwatobiloba Amusan in the ancient city of Ijebu Ode.
Sadly, the coach reveals how several other talents; some even ‘better’ than Amusan never made it to the world podium.
Excerpts…
PT: Congratulations Coach! Are you heading to the Commonwealth Games to see your girl (Tobi Amusan)?
Buka T: No, I’m in the World Juniors camp in Asaba. We are preparing for the competition coming up in Colombia.
PT: So, how is the preparation going on with the youngsters?
Buka T: It’s going on well. We are in full gear, all things being equal.
PT: Do you see Nigeria matching up with the feat we made in Nairobi or even doing better than we did at the last World Juniors?
Buka T: I think because some countries didn’t attend Kenya under 20, this one might be a little bit tougher, with the Americans coming, but at the same time, we have good athletes that can…
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