By Silvernews
The motivational charge delivered by Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Obinna Onyeocha, proved instrumental as Team Imo’s Male volleyball side defeated host Team Edo 3–1 in the final of the Niger Delta Games.
Facing the host side in a charged atmosphere, Team Imo knew the task ahead would be demanding, according to team captain, Paul Ilerechukwu.
The encounter lived up to expectations, with Edo pushing hard to unsettle the visitors. Despite dropping a set during the intense showdown, Team Imo maintained composure and tactical discipline to seal a deserved 3–1 victory, silencing the home crowd and emerging champions.
Speaking after the match, Ilerechukwu revealed that the Commissioner’s pre-final message boosted their confidence.
“We knew it was going to be a battle of champions, especially playing against the host team,” he said. “When they took a set from us, we understood they truly wanted it. But we were not shaken because we knew what we were capable of. We focused on maintaining our lead and displaying our skills.”
He added that Onyeocha’s encouragement before the final reminded the players to stay confident and united — a mindset that ultimately carried them through difficult moments.
