by Silas Boahene | May 11, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Other Sports
The Ghana Black Loopers, the national table tennis team, were welcomed by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, alongside Chief Director William Kartey, on Tuesday, May 7, 2024. The visit aimed to celebrate the team’s outstanding performance at the recently concluded West Africa Regional Championship in Togo.
During the visit, the team proudly presented their medals to Hon. Mustapha Ussif, who commended their achievements. The women’s team secured silver, while the men’s team clinched bronze, with additional bronze medals awarded to Joanita Borteye and Celia Baah Danso in the women’s singles event.
Mr. Mawuko Afadzinu, President of the Ghana Table Tennis Association, expressed gratitude to the Ministry and the Sports Minister for their unwavering support. He stressed the importance of continued backing as the team gears up for the Paris Olympic 2024 qualifying tournament in Kigali.
Hon. Mustapha Ussif, in his address, extended congratulations to the team and pledged full support for their upcoming endeavors. He emphasized the significance of investing in Ghana’s talented athletes to ensure their success on the international stage.
Among the team members recognized for their success at the West Africa Regional Championship were Emmanuel Commey, Samuel Akayade, James Marfo, Israel Aklie, Michael Yeboah, Cynthia Kwabi, Celia Baah-Danso, Bernice Borley Borquaye, Juanita Borteye, and Blessing Labanti. Technical coaches Ebenezer Anang Whyte and David Senyo Ahiaba were also acknowledged for their vital contributions to the team’s achievements.
by Silas Boahene | May 11, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Other Sports
The Black Loopers, Ghana’s table tennis team, are gearing up to make a splash at the upcoming WTT Contender Lagos 2024 tournament. With a formidable squad of 12 players, including 6 men and 6 women, Ghana is set to compete in this prestigious event held in Lagos, Nigeria, from June 17th to 23rd, 2024.
Preparations have been rigorous for the Black Loopers, showcasing their determination and skill as they aim to represent their country with pride. Led by seasoned players, the team is primed to take on formidable opponents from around the world, with eyes set on valuable ranking points for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Despite facing tough competition, the Black Loopers remain undeterred and are eager to demonstrate their capabilities on the international stage. Their participation underscores the growing strength of table tennis in Ghana and highlights the nation’s commitment to the sport’s development.
As anticipation builds for the WTT Contender Lagos 2024, fans and officials alike eagerly await the Black Loopers’ performance, recognizing the potential impact it could have on the future of table tennis in Ghana. While the official list from the Ghana Table Tennis Association is yet to be released, one thing is certain: the Black Loopers are poised to leave a lasting impression at this highly anticipated event.
by Silas Boahene | May 11, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Mohammed Kudus’ distinctive sitting celebration is poised to become a part of EA Sports FC 25 after gaining widespread recognition during the 2023/24 season. The 23-year-old’s unique celebration, which involves sitting on the advertisement boards, has garnered global attention since its debut.
Kudus first showcased this celebration after scoring a remarkable goal against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup, sparking a trend that has been emulated by players such as Leicester City’s Stephy Mavididi, Alexander Garnacho, Tracey Twum of the Black Princesses, and youth teams from West Ham and Ajax.
In an interview with EA uncut, Kudus explained that he adopted this celebration to stand out from the typical knee slides and other common celebrations. He expressed his delight at the widespread adoption of his unique celebration, inviting others to join in and become part of the larger celebration family.
Following his spectacular solo goal against Freiburg in the Europa League round of 16, Kudus introduced a new variation of his celebration by sitting on the steward’s stool.
During his conversation with EA uncut, the interviewers assured Kudus that they would reach out to FC 24 to ensure that his signature celebration is included in FC 25, further cementing its status as an iconic gesture in virtual football.
by Silas Boahene | May 11, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has emphasized the ongoing need for enhanced supporter protection at game venues, speaking at the 23rd Anniversary commemoration of the May 9 Disaster at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The tragic events of May 9, 2001, saw a stampede at the Accra Stadium, claiming the lives of over 120 people, marking one of Africa’s most devastating stadium disasters during a match between Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak.
While recognizing the imperative for continuous efforts to ensure utmost safety at game venues, President Okraku noted positive strides in this regard. His remarks were made during the commemorative event, attended by Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif.
The GFA President’s acknowledgment of progress underscores the ongoing commitment to enhancing venue safety, reflecting the importance of learning from past tragedies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
by Silas Boahene | May 11, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Asante Kotoko Chief Executive Officer Herbert Mensah has opened up about the profound impact of the 2001 May 9 disaster, describing it as an event that forever changed his life.
The tragic incident occurred during a highly charged match between arch-rivals Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium. Amidst escalating tensions sparked by a controversial referee decision, enraged supporters began hurling bottles and various objects onto the pitch.
In response, law enforcement authorities deployed tear gas, further fueling the chaos. As panic spread throughout the stadium, the decision was made to seal the gates, unwittingly leading to a devastating stampede.
Now, twenty-three years later, Mensah, a prominent figure in Ghanaian sports, has released a heartfelt statement to commemorate the lives lost and the lasting impact of the tragedy.
“Having been there and been involved in all that happened has changed my life, and I believe it has changed the lives of all those who were and have been closely involved,” Mensah expressed in his statement.
Mensah’s reflection underscores the enduring scars left by the May 9 disaster, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of safety and security in sports events.
