New Zealand netball star Nweke inspires Lagos talents

New Zealand netball star Grace Nweke has praised the talent and eagerness to learn among aspiring Nigerian netball players during her recent visit to Lagos for the Coming Home programme. The 24-year-old goal shooter, who was born in Auckland to Nigerian parents, participated in the programme alongside other international netball stars, which included trials, coaching sessions and an exhibition match at Rowe Park Sports Centre.

Nweke expressed her excitement about seeing many Nigerian athletes take on netball, describing it as "full circle" for her, given her heritage and her love for the sport. She highlighted the young players' keenness to learn and grow, noting that a significant number of them possess basketball skills with transferable abilities. Nweke emphasized the importance of continued sports collaboration between the UK, Australia, and Nigeria to accelerate the development of netball in the country.

The program, supported by the UK and Australian governments, aimed to expose young Nigerian players to world-class experience and mentorship, fostering a lasting pathway for netball talent in Nigeria.