- By Joan Iwuchukwu
In the heart of Nigeria’s sports scene, a legend has emerged, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Handball. Meet John Oris, a name synonymous with excellence in the sport. With over 40 years of experience playing Handball at various levels, John has seen it all. From local competitions to international tournaments, he has represented Nigeria with pride and distinction.
As a product of the Handball family. John’s love for Handball was nurtured from a young age. He played with passion, dedication, and a vision to excel. His illustrious career has been marked by numerous achievements, including winning premiership titles with his personal teams.
However, John’s journey has not been without its challenges. He witnessed the sport’s decline in Nigeria, with a decade-long drought in competitions. But with the arrival of a new board, led by Mr. Sam Ocheho, Handball began to flourish once more. The National League was reintroduced, and sponsors started to take notice.
Now, John has returned to his roots, determined to give back to the sport that has given him so much. His mission is to develop Handball in his zone, South South to invest in infrastructure, and bring in sponsors. He plans to build courts, provide equipment, and support teams. John’s vision is to take Handball to new heights, making it a more attractive proposition for athletes, sponsors, and fans alike.
One of John’s key focus areas is developing referees and coaches. He intends to organize seminars and courses to enhance their skills, ensuring the sport is nurtured from the grassroots level. By investing in people, John believes Handball can become a more sustainable and thriving sport in Nigeria.
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As a leader, and CEO as well, John is aware of the importance of collaboration. He knows that success in Handball requires a collective effort from players, coaches, referees, and administrators. His door is open to like-minded individuals who share his passion for the sport. As the owner of the thriving handball club Soof handball club, the south south elect into the board of handball federation has all it takes to support whoever emerges president of the federation to develop the game of handball in Nigeria.
John’s impact extends beyond the world of sports. He believes that Handball has the power to unite people, transcending cultural and socio-economic divides. As a man of the people, he is committed to using his platform to promote social cohesion and development.
The National Sports Commission, however, has a significant role to play in supporting Handball’s growth. John laments the lack of support from the commission, citing the need for more funding and resources. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic, convinced that with the right backing, Handball can become a major player in Nigeria’s sports landscape.
As John embarks on this new chapter in his life, his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of Handball enthusiasts. His story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and a passion for the sport. With his vision, leadership, and commitment, the future of Handball in Nigeria looks brighter than ever
