In collaboration with the Sierra Leone Squash Association (SLSA), NP Sierra Leone Limited has proudly organised the third edition of the Inter-Secondary School Squash Competition at the St. Edwards Senior Secondary School in Freetown.
The two-day tournament featured schools in the Western Area, including the Sierra Leone Grammar School, Services Secondary School, Methodist Girls High School, the Annie Walsh Memorial School, Prince of Wales Secondary School, and Lebanese School.
Speaking on behalf of the Company, Communications Manager, Dr Williette James, expressed utmost gratitude to participants (school pupils) and partners for a successful competition. “Our commitment is to keep Squash sport alive, reward excellence and ensure that it thrives across Sierra Leone. If we do not sponsor Squash, the sport may phase out in Sierra Leone. We believe in its value not just as a competitive sport, but as a full-body exercise that promotes health and youth engagement.”
Dr. Williette James also highlighted NP (SL) Ltd.’s significant contribution to the sport through the construction of Squash facilities in Freetown and Bo. She encouraged the pupils to dedicate themselves to the game, viewing it as an opportunity to reap the rewards of their hard work and talent.
Bassem Mohamed, President of the Sierra Leone Squash Association, emphasised the SLSA’s commitment to developing Squash, both locally and internationally. “SLSA currently works with 15 secondary schools, and we plan to expand our reach by including more schools next year. We have been working tirelessly for the game to be played both locally and internationally. We are proud that the National Squash Board is now a recognised member of the National Olympic Committee, the National Sports Authority, and the Squash Federation of Africa.”
The President thanked NP (SL) Ltd. for its consistent support of the Inter-Secondary School Squash Competition over the years.
Designed to cater to pupils at every level, the competition covered age categories under 12, 14, 16 and 18 for both male and female participants. Along with trophies, the winners in first, second and third places walked home with cash prizes, including Nle2,000, Nle1,500 and Nle1,000.
For the Under 12 category, Chino Mansaray of Blossom Academy and Mohamed Salab of the Lebanese International School emerged winners for boys and girls categories, respectively. For Under 14, Hajaratu Mansaray of the Freetown Secondary School for Girls, and Peter B.L. Conteh of the W.A.M Collegiate School emerged winners. For Under 16, Isatu Mansaray of the Methodist Girls High School and Mohamed Darwish of the Lebanese International School emerged winners. Lastly, Aleen Fofanah of Vine Memorial Secondary School and Michael Koroma of the Sierra Leone Grammar School emerged winners of the Under 18 category.
NP (SL) Limited remains committed to popularising Squash sport. The Company is also motivated by the aspiration to foster a squash-playing culture in schools and universities throughout the country. The aim is to create an environment where pupils can develop their sporting skills. This is why the Company has constructed squash courts at Sierra Leone Grammar School, St. Edwards Senior Secondary School, Bo Secondary School, Fourah Bay College, and most recently, at the Myohuang Officers’ Mess.