By: Lawal Damilare

New beginnings often bring a breath of fresh air, and change can be difficult to embrace. However, the UI inter-house sports event was a welcome change for many. For some, it was a time for bonding and making new friends; for others, it was a nostalgic reminder of their school days.

The UI inter-house sports event was an initiative sponsored by the University of Ibadan Students’ Union, and coordinated by Victor Kolawole. Originally scheduled for December 13th, it took place eventually on December 14th. The primary objective was to recreate the fun moments of secondary school while promoting sportsmanship and professionalism.

The event featured four houses: Green House (Independence Hall, Queen Idia Hall, Sultan Bello Hall); Red House (Queens Hall, Mellanby Hall, Zik Hall); Yellow House (Awo Hall, Kuti Hall, Tedder Hall); and Blue House (ABH and PG hostels). Various events took place, including the Marathon, March Past, Tug of War, Sack Race, Sprint Races, Lime and Spoon Race, and Skipping Race.

The day began with the VC’s Marathon, which covered 7.62km. David Adediran from Green House emerged first with a time of 28:57, securing the first gold medal for Green House. Eje Elijah from Green House and Olanrewaju Elijah from Red House came second and third, respectively.

Subsequent events followed, and the medal table grew. Victor Kolawole, the chairman of the event, won the gold medal for the Skipping race. Green House also emerged as the winner of the March Past, and other novelty races took place between the SU President and his fellow executives.

At the end of the day, Green House secured first place with 357 points, followed by Yellow House with 257 points, Red House with 218 points, and Blue House with 83 points.

Appraisal

The event received widespread commendation across the university community. Despite initial skepticism, the inter-house sports event proved to be a valuable experience. The organizers’ thoughtfulness was applauded, as the event provided a much-needed respite from the rigorous academic session.

However, concerns arise regarding the sustainability of the event. Will it continue, or was it a one-off occurrence? The inter-house sports event addressed issues of inclusivity, allowing female participation and providing alternatives to football. If this format is to continue, how will it be sustained?

Victor Kolawole, the chairman of the event, expressed that the inter-house sports event might continue despite initial plans for it to be a one-off. He noted that it was initially intended to fill in for the sports day in the SU Week.

“Well, in planning, it looked like it would be a one-off, but with the reviews, it may continue. It was a good initiative. Originally, the inter-house sport was to fill in for the sports day in the SU Week, just like the Super Cup was for last session, which later continued. It would be really nice to see it continue,” Victor Kolawole said.

For the event to continue, a structure needs to be put in place. Will halls maintain their houses, and if so, will that reduce the chances of fostering bonds between halls? Another concern is the inclusion of other sports versus the short calendar span.

To address these concerns, subsequent years can feature broader publicity, including external sports bodies. The inter-house sports event can serve as a grooming ground for talents to represent the school in athletics or other sports.

Generally, the UI maiden inter-house sports event was a success. It provided a welcome change for the student community. Its sustainability and continuation will depend on addressing the concerns raised and putting a structure in place. To be able to sustain the idea is a paramount concern.