2002 Commonwealth Champion, Segun Toriola (OLY) has explained reasons for choosing to coach Nigeria table tennis senior team.
The Multiple All African Games Champion told www.aclsports.com that he wants to share the wealth of his experience with young players in the country.
He revealed that not playing in the 13th African Games after making his debut 34 years ago was a tough decision.
Toriola said, “I feel happy coaching Nigeria because for me, it is compulsory for me to give back to the young players. When the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation made their decision, they contacted me that they want me to be their head coach in Nigeria.
“I did not have any choice than to accept it because from my experience and what they told me that in Nigeria they don’t think there is anyone qualified to be the coach so for me I am happy that they recognise me and I feel I need to give something back”.
He further said, “There are lots of challenges from other countries in the African Games. Some of these countries recruited players from Europe to win medals in the men and women categories.
“This is my first Africa Games as head coach and will be the first time I will not play since 1990 when I made my debut. I feel a little bit nervous and stressed knowing fully well that I will not handle the bat. I am confident the players will give their best and I will ensure I give them tips to defeat their opponents in the Doubles, Mixed Doubles and Team”.
