By ODU IJI
The Benue State Handballers, who are well known as BENUE BUFFALOS and LOBI BABES throughout Nigeria and the diaspora, are organizing the first-ever reunion of their kind.
This is planned to take place in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, on December 5–7, 2024.
In addition, a plethora of events are planned to raise awareness of handball and motivate future players.
Over the weekend, ODU IJI conducted an online chat with Gabriel O. Odeh, a former professional handball player from Okpokwu Loca Government Area in Benue State, who also played internationally.
During the All-African Games, he competed from 1997 to 2009 in Israel, Tunis, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Italy, and his own Nigeria. Additionally, he participated in the following clubs: CLUB AFRICAN OF TUNIS (TUNIS), MIDA HANDBALL CLUB, EXPERIENCE HANDBALL CLUB (TARAJI), and MACCABI ROHOVOT (ISREAL). FORTEX HUNGARY HANDBALL CLUB (HUNGARY), AL-ARABI HANDBALL CLUB OF QATAR (QATAR), AL-KALEEJI and AL-NOUR HANDBALL CLUB (Saudi Arabia), and ANCONA HANDBALL CLUB (ITALY).
Go through the excerpt.
Qtn: When playing handball, what was the most memorable moment you had?
Answer: It’s priceless to feel the delight we get when we win.
Qtn: What effects did playing handball have on your life besides the game?
Answer: I became a better person and more involved.
Qtn: What knowledge have you gained from playing handball?
Answer: To put it simply, I became more driven and disciplined in my pursuit of my objectives.
Qtn: In handball, what was your most satisfying accomplishment?
Answer: When we took home the bronze medal at the All-Africa Games
Qtn: When you played handball, what did you miss the most?
Answer: I miss competing, making new friends, warming up before games, exceeding expectations, receiving support from the crowd, and being constantly active.
Question: Have you maintained contact with your previous teammates?
Answer: Yes, I do.
Qtn: What will be your reaction upon seeing your former teammates again?
Answer: I’m really excited about that day since I know it will bring back memories and I also want to have fun.
Qtn: What are your thoughts on the planned reunion?
Answer: I’m eager to go, as I mentioned. I think it’s a fantastic concept that will unite us once more and raise awareness for both prospective and current players.
Qtn: After this reunion, are you hoping for more?
Answer: Yes, I most definitely do.
Question: What guidance would you provide the present players that want to succeed?
Answer: To be fervent, disciplined, and focused when I get the chance to meet them. I explain to them the advantages of participating if they are committed and give it their all. It will uplift them and pay their bills.
I enjoyed our conversation, sir. Many thanks.