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| Sunday, 12 May 2002 |
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A
'joke' sending Sri Lanka waterpolo team for Asian Games!
by LESLIE FERNANDO A waterpolo team for the Asian Games in Busan, South Korea in September-October 2002? This is the decision of the National Amateur Aquatic Sports Union (NAASU). Though this may be the wish of the controlling body, it will be somewhat of a joke if they do get the 'nod' from the National Sports Council Selection Committee and then by the Minister of Sports to proceed for the Games. Going for the Asian Games should not be a joy ride for anyone - only the best possible should represent the country at a high level international competition like the Asian Games. What is the form of the waterpolo team? Has Sri Lanka won against regional teams like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, to name just three? Starting practices just now is insufficient, practices should have been started over two years ago after having formed 'pools' because Sri Lanka have to start from scratch. This looks very much like an intended shopping safari and the Minister of Sports who oversees these selections will do well to stop this sort of nonsense in the sports arena. If the waterpolo team is allowed to go, the National Olympic Committee might as well send each and every sports team for the Asian Games and there needn't be any selection trials. NAASU has decided to form a waterpolo pool after two stages of trials to be held on May 18 at two venues. The first stage the players will have to undergo physical fitness program conducted by the Sports Development Department of the Sports Ministry at Torrington Square grounds from 8.30 a.m. The players will then have to prove their skills in playing, swimming, shooting and other aspects of the game at the Sugathadasa Stadium swimming pool from 3.00 p.m. The players wishing to face these two stages should send in their entries to NAASU office at Reid Avenue, Colombo 7. Meanwhile, NAASU also have decided to hold Junior Waterpolo Championships in two age categories on May 25 at the Sugathadasa Stadium pool commencing from 8.30 a.m. The two age groups are under-20 and under-15. Entries close on May 20 at NAASU office at Reid Avenue, Colombo 7. Tel - 682078. |
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