The Ghana Football Association is pleased to announce the list of referees for the 2020/2021 Premier League season following medical and fitness test.

The list is for 40 Premier League referees and 40 Premier League Assistant referees.

There is a list of 10 Referees and 10 Assistant Referees who will be officiating in the Division One League but will also serve as support for the Premier League when needed.

These support referees, will officiate in the Premier League when any Referee drops from the list of 40 Premier League Referees due to either disciplinary, performance, ethical or medical issue.

These selected referees will take charge of the 306 Premier League matches in the upcoming season.

Attached is the full list of Referees and Assistant Referees.

APPROVED PREMIER LEAGUE REFEREES LIST 2020/21 SEASON

NO - NAME OF REFEREE - CLASS - AGE - REGION - STATION

1 Daniel Laryea FIFA 34 Gt. Accra Accra

*2 George Mawuli Vormawah FIFA 31 Western Takoradi

*3 Charles Bulu FIFA 35 Gt. Accra Tema

4 Benjamin Kwame Sefah FIFA 36 Western Takoradi

5 Abdul Latiff Qadir FIFA 34 Ashanti Kumasi

*6 Adaari Abdul-Latif FIFA 33 Upper West Wa

7 Julian Nunoo C. 1 30 Gt. Accra Accra

8 Samadji Joshua C. 1 31 Eastern Koforidua

9 Eric Owusu Prempeh C.1 34 Ashanti Kumasi

10 Eso Doh Morrison C.1 36 Volta Akatsi

11 Ali Musah C.1 36 Brong Ahafo Goaso

12 Kenny Padi C.1 41 Central Cape Coast

13 Maxwell Hanson C.1 39 Gt. Accra Tema

14 Maxwell Owusu C.1 36 Eastern Koforidua

15 Jones Akubiem C.1 41 Eastern Nkawkaw

16 Bashiru Dauda C.1 36 Brong Ahafo Sunyani

17 Abdulai Ibrahim C.1 37 Brong Ahafo Sunyani

18 Mohammed Misbau C.1 30 Northern Tamale

19 Opoku Arhin Gabriel C.1 32 Northern Tamale

20 Tampuri Emmanuel C.1 33 Upper East Bolgatanga

21 Clement Kwame Nkuah C.1 34 Western Sefwi

22 Patrick Okyere C.1 36 Western Takoradi

23 Eric Sefa Antwi C.1 33 Upper West Wa

24 Selorm Kpormegbe C.1 35 Gt. Accra Tema

*25 Phillip Atta Forson C.1 38 Central Cape Coast

26 Rustum Gameli Senorgbe C.1 36 Volta Ho

*27 Fredrick Samena C.1 37 Western Takoradi

28 Wiseman Ghansah C.1 40 Gt. Accra Tema

29 Akudzi Martins C.1 37 Volta Aflao

30 Bismark Appiah C.1 39 Eastern Oda

*31 Mahama Ewuntoma C.1 35 Northern Damongo

32 Musah Mubarik C.1 31 Upper East Bolgatanga

33 Alfaa Ba-Adey C.1 31 Upper West Wa

34 Isaac Osei C.1 33 Ashanti Kumasi

35 Emmanuel Otoo C.1 37 Ashanti Kumasi

36 Aduntera Jacob C.1 31 Upper East Bolgatanga

37 Maale Imgerde Ireme C.1 29 Upper West Wa

38 Imoro Osman C.1 36 Central Cape Coast

39 Awurisa Andrews C.1 26 Upper East Bolgatanga

40 Selorm Yaw Bless C.1 32 Volta Peki

2020/21 SEASON - PREMIER LEAGUE SUPPORT REFEREES

NO - NAME OF REFEREE - CLASS - AGE - REGION - STATION

1 Theresa Bremansu FIFA 38 Western Takoradi

2 Delight Alorbu FIFA 38 Volta Ho

3 Joyce Obeniwaa Appiah FIFA 37 Eastern Nkawkaw

4 Juliet Appiah FIFA 32 Ashanti Kumasi

5 Robert Mussey C.1 38 Gt. Accra Accra

6 Jacob Asafua C.1 38 Central Cape Coast

7 Hassim Yakubu C.1 32 Brong Ahafo Techiman

8 S. K. Mawuli Klu C.1 37 Volta Hohoe

9 Isaac Simmon Bassaw C.1 35 Western Takoradi

10 Azantilow Albert C.1 33 Upper East Sandema

PREMIER LEAGUE ASSISTANT REFEREES LIST 2020/21 SEASON

NO- NAME OF ASSISTANT REFEREE - CLASS AGE REGION STATION

1 Kwasi Acheampong Brobbey FIFA 36 Gt. Accra Accra

2 Emmanuel Dolagbanu FIFA 31 Ashanti Kumasi

*3 Tijani Mohammed FIFA 36 Upper East Bolgatanga

4 Papala Patrick FIFA 37 Brong Ahafo Wenchi

*5 Emmanuel Allou Tebson FIFA 32 Western Prestea

6 Paul Atimaka FIFA 32 Volta Aflao

7 Dawsa Peter C.1 34 Upper East Sandema

8 Roland Addy C.1 32 Gt. Accra Accra

*9 Courage Kuedufia C.1 32 Volta Accra

10 Gilbert Adom Mensah C.1 36 Western Tarkwa

11 Emmanuel Dei C.1 36 Brong Ahafo Sunyani

12 Isaac Odoom C.1 38 Central Saltpond

13 Mumuni Fuseini C.1 39 Northern Tamale

14 Balonguila Stephen C.1 35 Volta Ho

15 Ngindieye Thomas C.1 39 Upper West Wa

16 Richard Appiah C.1 42 Ashanti Kumasi

17 Isaac Opoku Antwi C.1 35 Ashanti Kumasi

18 Isaac Nyamekye C.1 34 Brong Ahafo Sunyani

19 Kofi Kyei Andoh C.1 36 Western Prestea

20 Frederick Danful C.1 35 Western Takoradi

21 Emmanuel Bakai C.1 34 Central Assin Fosu

22 Alex Osam C.1 39 Eastern Oda

23 Halilu Alhassan C.1 30 Upper West Wa

24 Isaac Asante C.1 36 Eastern Afram Plains

25 Francis Bondzie Arthur C.1 36 Central Cape Coast

26 Dakura Soglo Augustine C.1 35 Upper West Wa

27 Ali Timuah Baah C.1 41 Upper West Tumu

28 David Addico C.1 36 Gt. Accra Tema

29 Ato Yawson C.1 38 Gt. Accra Accra

30 Bawa Haruna C.1 39 Upper East Bolgatanga

31 Pascal Mawusi C.1 41 Gt. Accra Accra

32 Jasper Adenyo C.1 38 Western Takoradi

33 Alhassan Abdulai C.1 31 Northern Tamale

34 Sulemana Salau Deen C.1 32 Upper East Bolgatanga

35 Alhassan Abdul-Rawuf C.1 32 Northern Tamale

36 Freeman Awuloo C.1 39 Volta Peki

37 Prosper Avinou C.1 37 Ashanti Kumasi

38 Sintim Musah C.1 37 Eastern Kibi

39 Kenneth Tweneboah-Kodua C.1 29 Brong Ahafo Techiman

40 Ndebugri Eric C.1 29 Upper East Obuasi

PREMIER LEAGUE ASSISTANT REFEREES LIST 2020/21 SEASON - (SUPPORT)

NO- NAME OF ASSISTANT REFEREE- CLASS AGE REGION STATION

*1 Beatrice Thaud FIFA 38 Volta Aflao

2 Alice Farizua Chakule FIFA 33 Ashanti Kumasi

3 Doris Essuman Darko FIFA 34 Central Cape Coast

4 Mary Tei FIFA 32 Central Cape Coast

5 Akisboka A. George C.1 31 Upper East Bolgatanga

6 James Osafo C.1 38 Gt. Accra Accra

7 Abdulai Abdul-Salam C.1 32 Upper West Wa

8 George Owusu Amponsah C.1 34 Northern Tamale

9 Sheriff Kweku-Duah C.1 35 Western Bibiani

10 Amegbetor Moses C.1 33 Eastern Koforidua

GFA COMMUNICATIONS

Belfast fighter Michael Conlan has been forced to pull out of his world title eliminator against Isaac Dogboe on 5 December because of an ankle injury.

Conlan was set to face the former WBO super-bantamweight champion in London and was hoping victory would land him a world title shot in March.

“Absolutely devastated to announce I will no longer be fighting December 5,” said Conlan, 28, on Twitter.

Conlan said he “ruptured” his anterior talofibular ligament on Wednesday.

“Back home now recovering. Doc said I’ll be out for 8-12 weeks but I’ll be back sooner, just watch.”

The 2012 Olympic bronze medallist said that he sustained the injury in training.

Conlan was moving down from featherweight for what would have been a super-bantamweight contest against the Ghanaian-British fighter and was hoping victory would land him a world title shot on St Patrick’s Day in March.

The unbeaten 28-year-old secured his 14th consecutive career win by stopping Sofiane Takoucht in August.

Conlan said earlier this year that he would have expected to fight for a world title at Belfast’s Falls Park in the summer if it had not been for the coronavirus pandemic.

Six of Conlan’s 14 professional fights have been held in New York, with two bouts taking place in Belfast, including a sellout Falls Park show near his childhood home in the west of the city, in the summer of 2019

SOURCE: BBC

 Surprising results continue to be registered at 2020 Sydney Katz Junior Tennis Open going on at the Accra Sports Stadium courts.

7 year old Jefter Dowuona beat a taller and older opponent, but later lost to Henry Adevor, while 8 year old Nyamekye Omane defeated Lawrence Tofa (4-0) in an exciting game.

Priscilla Aboagye also defeated Chidinma Oriaku (4-4, 12-10) in the first round matches.

As the matches continue, there are expectations for some more outstanding performances and shocking results.

Picture shows Under 14 Girls Quarter Finalists and Under 12 Boys Quarter Finalists.

One of the organisers, Mrs.Carthy Morton of Activly Sports said she is happy with the level of play and the interest shown by the young Tennis players.

The tournament ends on Saturday.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) will hold a congress on Thursday, November 5, 2020, footballghana.com can report.

Just like the entire football fraternity, GHALCA which is the umbrella body of football clubs in the country is preparing for the start of the 2020/2021 football season.

With just over a week for the season to kick-off, GHALCA has through a letter to its members indicated that it had set November 5 for a Congress meeting.

"The Ghana League Clubs Association sends its warmest compliments. We humbly write to invite you officially to Congress on Thursday, November 5th, 2020 @ 10 a.m at the GHALCA conference room.

"Your presence will be very much appreciated and please be reminded that all the COVID-19 protocols would be observed", the letter from GHALCA has said.

On the agenda, there will be a presentation of 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 audited accounts and the arrangements for elections of new executives.

From Sammy Heywood Okine

Football pundit, Paul Merson is of the view that Partey is the best Premier League signing this season.

The Ghanaian joined Arsenal on deadline day after his release clause was triggered. He has played multiple games for the club.

He recently impressed in a 1-0 win against Manchester United and Merson joined in with his praise.

“When you talk about signings in the summer, he’s got to be number one. I cannot believe, without being horrible here, that Arsenal got him," he informed Sky.

“I know Manchester United are top-heavy & they’ve got Fred, McTominay & Matic, but they haven’t got a Partey. Manchester City too, Fernandinho’s coming towards the end, Rodri hasn’t really pulled any trees. You’re thinking wow, who didn’t see this?”

Partey is expected to feature regularly in subsequent matches.

From Sammy Heywood Okine

The Ghana Tennis Federation (GTF) has expressed gratitude to the Soliver Foundation, a non-governmental organization, for a donation of tennis equipment in March this year.

The GTF in a letter of appreciation signed by its President, Mr Isaac Aboagye Duah said the equipment from the Austria-based Foundation came at a time when there is a resurgence in the sport as a result of the tennis in school program under the ITF’s Junior Tennis Initiative (JTI).

"This initiative, has resulted in the re-establishment of the junior tennis leagues and it is expected that these kids, who are the future of Ghana tennis, will benefit from the use of the equipment," the statement said.

"As the mandated entity to develop the sport of tennis, GTF understands the need to partner well-meaning Foundations in this regard and wish to assure you of our willingness and preparedness to recognize your Foundation as a partner in the development of the game. Thank you and be assured that GTF looks forward to future collaborations and donations".

The items consisting of over 3000 slightly used tennis balls, tennis wear, and tennis racquets were handed over to the GTF for onward distribution to the tennis club dotted across the country by the Deputy Director of the Soliver Foundation, Mr Oliver Blatizer and former tennis star Solomon Koomson.

Former Davis Cup Coach Mr David Churcher and Foundation Secretary of Henry Odartey Tawiah donated the items on behalf of Mr Solomon Koomson.

Coach Churcher said, "The donation of tennis equipment is to ensure that young tennis players enjoy the opportunity to further and improve their training".

Story: Gabriel Amoakoh

The Ghana Premier League will kick start on the weekend of November 14-15

The Ghana Football Association (GFA), is pleased to announce that the launch of the 2020/2021 football season will take place on Thursday, November 05, 2020, at the studio of Max TV, a free to air channel, at 6 pm.

The launch of the season is part of a plethora of events put together to usher in the new season.

The Ghana Premier League will kick start on the weekend of November 14-15, 2020.

The second-tier competition, Division One League kicks off on December 3, 2020, while the Women’s Premier League is set to kick off on January 2, 2021.

The launch will be broadcasted live on Adepa TV, channel 247 and Max TV, courtesy of broadcast partner StarTimes Ghana.

GFA

Internationally acclaimed top musician, Lady Jay released her latest musical video entitled ‘Fire’ at the 4Syte Mansion at Agyiriganor on Sunday November 1 in Accra. The programme was well attended, great environment and successful act.

She was signed by Wahala Entertainment in 2018 after she returned from Canada where she studied music business. The company works hand in hand with ditto music and since then released five singles and music videos which influenced a new generation of listeners and viewers.

She has also done her first virtual concert and is working on her famous live music concert “Magic Dream” held at the exotic Zen Garden.

Her next project is entitled “This is Africa” and she says it is an anthem to all Africans and very close to her heart.

Here are a few comments from some of the guests at the 4Styte Mansion.

Salman Mumin – 4Syte Music

Her performance, she was literally flying, an amazing performance, I am really excited, peace and love and adoration.

Elizabeth Alhassan – African Sports Media Network

She is in a class of her own, I think these performances are for high class executives, kings and presidents, I mean VVIP. Lady Jay, thumbs up, I was really amazed and wanted more. I love her courage to fly.

Philipo – Ahortor FM

Lady Jay is one of the best entertainers in the world, and I can afford to miss such a privileged show. I commend her managers, Wael Hakeem and the Wahala Entertainment Team as well as the Gentlemen Band and the Flawless Dance Group. Generally, the Video Release was a great event, the lighting, sound, security, media, special guests were all on point.

Joycelyn – Sports & Leisure Services (SLS)

Wow, I can’t believe watching Lady Jay perform live at the 4Syte Mansion, the atmosphere was great and it affected the performance to be super.

I think she is just lovely and interesting to watch as you do not know her next move, which comes in handy and flavoured.

Clyde Narh – KFMTV

Lady Jay is just good, good and doing better every time. Her dance steps going in fashion with the Flawless Dancers was super and her dress was stimulating and vibrant to the sound beats. She is just one of her own who does her own thing.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Ghana Premier League giants Kumasi Asante Kotoko SC have officially confirmed a partnership deal with Insurance company StarLife.

The club announced the two parties have agreed on a five-year contract with the insurance company starting from the beginning of the 2020-21 season.

Star Assurance becomes the latest brand to sign a deal with the Ghana Premier League record holders after Veo, Instat, Errea, Hisense and CEEK.

Below is the full statement below:

South Africa's captain Siya Kolisi lifts the Webb Ellis Cup after his side won the Rugby World Cup final against England a year ago in Japan. By Odd ANDERSEN (AFP/File)

South Africa have committed to the Rugby Championship until 2030, organising body SANZAAR said Wednesday, ending speculation the World Cup holders were set to shift to Europe.

The announcement is a boon for the game in the southern hemisphere, after coronavirus disruption tore Super Rugby apart and left question marks over the "flagship" Rugby Championship.

"The southern hemisphere rugby powers have recognised the need for change in these difficult times and have committed to an international rugby future through to 2030," SANZAAR said in a statement.

However, the "SANZAAR entity" and domestic and provincial tournaments will also undergo "restructuring", SANZAAR (South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina Rugby) added.

South Africa lifted their third World Cup a year ago in Japan, underlining the strength of rugby in the southern hemisphere, whose teams have won all but one of the tournament's nine editions.

But the Springboks, who haven't played since beating England in the final in Yokohama, withdrew from this year's Rugby Championship citing government travel restrictions and concerns over player welfare.

It came after South Africa pulled most of their club teams out of Super Rugby in favour of Europe's Pro14, as New Zealand and Australia pursued negotiations on a bilateral competition.

There were reports South Africa's national team would follow suit and join the Six Nations, amid suggestions the world champions felt snubbed by their southern hemisphere partners.

However SANZAAR said the Rugby Championship -- rebranded as the Tri Nations this year and featuring just New Zealand, Australia and Argentina -- would remain intact.

"The Rugby Championship will continue to be the flagship of southern hemisphere rugby for the next decade and, as in the past, will be the key driver and pathway for the unions' continued success at the highest levels of the game including the Rugby World Cup," SANZAAR said.

"The joint-venture members Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa are committed to the Championship and to its continued evolution where future growth and expansion form part of a revised 10-year plan."

'Massive boost'

The Rugby Championship will now be played in a 12-match, mini-tour format with the teams facing each other home or away. However, SANZAAR flagged further changes ahead, saying it was at the start of a "phased progression process".

"The recommitment by the four unions to the long-term future of the international game is an important start as we embark in a new direction for both the unions and the organisation over the coming years," said SANZAAR CEO Andy Marinos.

"This is the first of a number of announcements that will be made over the coming weeks and months as we continue to plan into 2021 and beyond."

There was no immediate comment from South Africa Rugby but the official Rugby Australia website described it as a "massive boost" for southern hemisphere rugby.

The showpiece tournament began in 1996 as the Tri Nations and became the Rugby Championship in 2012 with the inclusion of Argentina.

New Zealand rugby writer Paul Cully said South Africa's decade-long commitment could provide a platform for further expansion.

"With the stability of the Rugby Championship now in place perhaps we will see the door open to Japan and Fiji in coming years," he tweeted.

While the Rugby Championship's future appears settled, the future format of Super Rugby remains uncertain, with the New Zealand Herald reporting plans for a 12-team competition were being drawn up.

It said the blueprint involved five Australian teams, five New Zealand and two from the Pacific islands competing from 2022.

AFP