Bhubaneswar: International Association of Athletics Federation’s (IAAF) Level 5 elite Nigerian coach Taiwo Ariyo visited the Kalinga Stadium here Saturday and gave his expert advice regarding the setting up of the proposed high performance academy for athletes.
According to sources Ariyo in all probability will be appointed as chief coach of the academy. “The aim is have an academy matching international standards where both athletes and coaches will get high-standard guidance. Hence the state government is interested to appoint Ariyo in the the ongoing project,” the source informed.
Ariyo has had more than two decades of coaching experience in different countries. Nigerian athletes Olusoji Fasuba (current African record holder in 100m) and Sunday Emmanuel (former 100m and 200m sprinter) achieved their career best timings under Ariyo.
“India is a huge nation with a population of more than 100 crore. Hence it’s not impossible for the athletes of the country to get international success,” Ariyo stated.
“I love to coach and help in the development of promising athletes. I am here on the invitation of Orissa government. The facilities at the Kalinga Stadium are world class,” he added.
Athletic Federation of India (AFI) secretary CK Valson expressed his satisfaction over the development. “Orissa has some excellent athletes. The state government is also working pretty hard. If the academy will be set up here with good coaches, then I am sure that we will definitely get some world beaters from Orissa,” stated Valson.
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