by Silas Boahene | Apr 19, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana
Mr. Charles Quartey, President of the United Boxing Coaches Association of Ghana, along with his first Vice President, Mr. Lawrence Carl Lokko, discussed the future of Ghanaian boxing, focusing on the role of coaches and the development of boxers.
In an exclusive interview with Mr. Nat Attoh of Joy Sports, President Quartey highlighted a prevalent issue in Ghanaian boxing: the frequent movement of boxers between clubs. He expressed concern over this trend, noting the detrimental impact it has on coaches who invest significant time and effort into training and developing boxers, only to see them leave due to minor disagreements.
President Quartey emphasized the need for a stronger relationship between boxers and their coaches, drawing parallels with the transfer system in football. He stressed the importance of creating a fair and united front within the boxing community to ensure the mutual benefit of all stakeholders.
Lawrence Carl Lokko, from the Bronx Gym, echoed President Quartey’s sentiments, expressing a commitment to mentoring young coaches and advancing Ghanaian boxing to new heights.
To address the issue of boxer mobility, the UBCAG plans to implement a boxer registration system with every gym, ensuring transparency and accountability in boxer-coach relationships.
Regarding their relationship with boxing governing bodies and the media, President Quartey assured that interactions have been positive, indicating a willingness to collaborate for the betterment of the sport.
The UBCAG’s proposed boxer registration system reflects their dedication to fostering a cohesive boxing community and elevating the sport to greater heights in Ghana.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 19, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Asante Kotoko’s recent struggles in the Ghana Premier League prompted a significant intervention from the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who met with the team to address their downturn in form.
With Kotoko enduring a seven-game winless streak and languishing in the 11th position after 26 matches played, the Asantehene engaged in discussions with both the players and the technical team to identify the root causes of their poor performances.
During the meeting, he emphasized the importance of unity within the team and encouraged the players to set aside individual differences and prioritize the collective success of the club. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II reminded them that their allegiance should be to the team above all else and expressed his expectations for a marked improvement in their performance.
“I am expecting something better from you,” he stated unequivocally. “Prove to me that you are capable, and if there are issues with the coach, appropriate action will be taken. But for now, focus on playing and winning.”
With the Asantehene’s words ringing in their ears, the Porcupine Warriors are gearing up to face league leaders FC Samartex on Sunday in hopes of reclaiming their winning form.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 19, 2024 | Africa, Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Ghana, Other Sports, Soccer
In a spectacle reminiscent of the Olympic Games, the All Regional Games commenced its nationwide journey to revitalize grassroots sports with a grand Torch Relay ceremony.
Taking place on Thursday, April 18, at the Black Stars Square in Accra, the ceremony marked the beginning of a movement aimed at reigniting the spirit of sportsmanship and athleticism across the country.
The ceremonial torch was lit by the Director General of the National Sports Authority, Dadzie Numekevor, alongside celebrated football icons Asamoah Gyan and Baffour Gyan, symbolizing the start of an inspiring journey to promote and nurture sporting talent at the grassroots level.
A vibrant city-wide float procession wound its way through the streets of Accra, carrying the illuminated torch to prominent landmarks, effectively raising awareness for the forthcoming All Regional Games.
The event saw the participation of esteemed torchbearers, including a Para-athlete, boxing legend Braima Kamoko (Bukom Banku), and former Black Stars players such as Agyemang Badu, Samuel Inkoom, Kwadwo Asamoah, and the Gyan brothers, Asamoah and Baffour, heightening the fervor and excitement surrounding the occasion.
The All Regional Games is set to traverse all 16 Regions of the nation, scouting for promising athletes across eight sporting disciplines, including soccer, athletics, boxing, tennis, basketball, arm-wrestling, volleyball, and table tennis.
With this holistic approach, the All Regional Games demonstrates its dedication to fostering talent development and sports excellence at every level of competition.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 19, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Laryea Kingston Assumes Helm as Head Coach for Ghana’s Black Starlets
Ghanaian football luminary Laryea Kingston has been named as the new head coach for the Black Starlets.
Kingston, formerly an assistant coach for Ghana’s U-17 team under Karim Zito, has now stepped into the role of head coach.
Having recently overseen the team in friendly matches in preparation for the upcoming WAFU B tournament, Kingston brings a wealth of experience from his time as a player for Hearts of Oak and Great Olympics.
Assisting Kingston will be Jacob Nettey, former captain of Hearts of Oak, who boasts an illustrious career including CAF Champions League success in 2000 and appearances for Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations and the 1996 Summer Olympics.
Joining them is Nana Agyemang, a seasoned coach with CAF Licence A and UEFA Licence B credentials, who brings a diverse coaching background from clubs like Adenta United and Barbarossa Academy.
The new coaching trio has been entrusted with the task of crafting a competitive squad for upcoming tournaments, including the WAFU B U-17 Cup of Nations in Accra 2024 and the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations.
by Silas Boahene | Apr 17, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The drum used by the Black Stars for their spirited ‘jama’ sessions prior to matches at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has found its place in the esteemed collection of the FIFA Museum.
This drum, known locally as ‘dondo’, has become an integral part of Ghana’s football national team rituals, often accompanying them on their journeys.
The Black Stars made quite an impression upon their arrival in Qatar, capturing headlines with their stylish entrance before each match during the tournament.
In a recent announcement, FIFA revealed that the drum has been officially incorporated into the Museum’s collection in Zurich.
Drums hold significant cultural importance in Ghana, contributing to the country’s vibrant musical heritage.
For the Black Stars and other Ghanaian national teams, the drum plays a central role in their pre-match rituals, adding rhythm and energy to their training sessions and match preparations.
