Haliyah is one of the star members of the Under-15 Team Lagos Handball players, competing in Osun for qualification for the upcoming National Youth Games in Delta.
This morning (Saturday), her team unfortunately lost to Team Ekiti, and she was understandably distraught and inconsolable. While walking around the stadium, I spotted Haliyah crying by the door of their bus, and I beckoned at her, I instantly could tell what was amiss.
I told her that their team had given their all and thrilled the spectators with their stellar performance during the Handball contest. They may not have won the match, but they undoubtedly and creditably won the hearts of many of us. Sometimes, the outcome just doesn’t go in one’s favour.
In addition, I also reminded her that there will be another time, another chance. And when that time comes, it will be a day of reckoning for Team Ekiti – a day when they will learn a never-before lesson of life on how not to taunt or prove a better team.
Haliyah and her team mates remain our champions, and they will surely be received as big champions when we return to Lagos.
Hon. Lekan Fatodu (LF), the Director General of Lagos State Sports Commission writes from Osun.