The Beach Soccer Clubs Union in Ghana, has assured the Ghana Football Association (GFA) of another exciting full throttle season.

The interim chairman of the Union Mr. Gyamfi Kusi Awere reiterated the resolve, focus and determination of the clubs to make this season even more exciting and competitive than the maiden campaign.

"There are a lot of challenges but that notwithstanding, the teams will intensify their preparations ahead of the 2nd edition which will hopefully kick off in a few weeks time ".

The Union is made of 20 clubs, out of which 14 teams compete in the Premier Beach Soccer League.

The clubs in zone A are Cheetah BSC, Sea Sharks, Dansoman BSC, Teshie BSC, Nugua BSC, Okere Rangers, Senya Sharks and Layoca whilst Zone B is made up of Keta Sunset Sports, Kedzi-Havedzi Mighty Warriors, Vodza Iron Breakers, Tegbi Oceans Stars, Kedzi Miracle BSC and defending champions Ada Assurance BSC.

The GFA supported each club with GHC 10,000 from the GFA for the 15 week long season and are hopeful for an increment in that figure as they continue to prepare for the start of the second season.

Already the Volta region has been playing it's mini league which will be replicated across the regional Football Associations with a format and timetable to be drawn up by the competitions committee.

The General Secretary of the FA Mr Prosper Harrison Addo has also assured the clubs that the GFA continues to be fully committed to support and develop beach soccer in Ghana.

The clubs are due to meet this week to conclude on final plans for the commencement of the season.

Source GBSCU

Coach Karim Zito of Dreams FC has says his side is well prepared for anything including penalty shootouts against Zamalek SC on Sunday in Kumasi.

The representatives of Ghana will clash with the Egyptian top side in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup in the semifinal games at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

Dreams FC who believe in themselves and go by the slogan ‘Still Believe’ held Zamalek to a surprise goalless scoreline in the first leg at the Cairo International Stadium last weekend.

Zito, a former Ghana international with Asante Kotoko revealed that the team had concluded their training with penalty shootouts.

“You watched the training yourself, we ended with penalty shootouts and out of the twenty-four (24) players only three (3) of them could not score, so we are ready if it gets to penalties. Let me say that we are hoping to go in on Sunday and secure qualification in regulation time," he told the media in Kumasi.

He extended a heartfelt call to supporters of Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, urging them to rally behind Dreams FC during the critical encounter.

“This is not about Dreams, it’s about Ghana, we at Dreams are fighting very hard to bring back the slots we lost in Africa inter-club competitions. The fans of both Kotoko and Hearts should come and support us because we are building something for them to come and enjoy later."

In a bid to mobilise a significant turnout of football enthusiasts in Kumasi, the club has announced free entry to all stands except for the VIP and VVIP areas.

The much-anticipated game is scheduled to kick off at 16:00GMT on Sunday, April 28.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Youth & Sports, GFA, GHALCA, SWAG and other bodies have sent goodwill messages to Dreams FC to win and make Ghana proud.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

... Madam Gloria Commodore meets new DG of NSA

The Women In Sports Association (WISA), an NGO has begun preparations for the next 10th awards ceremony to be held in Accra.

Founder and President of WISA, Madam Gloria Commodore was at the Accra Sports Stadium and office of Dr. Dodzie Numekevor, the new Director General of the National Sports Authority on Thursday April 25 to formally introduce herself and the Association as well as brief him and invite him for her grand final event scheduled for September 21, 2024.

According to Madam Commodore who is 67 years old and uses her pension to do the event, inspire and motivate outstanding female sports personalities, this year may be her last due to her health and lack of financial support as the economy is also not favourable.

"This is my last awards, am tired, I pray some one takes over to continue to motivate the young ones coming, this year we are rewarding 24 people who have excelled" she told the NSA boss.

She said things are very expensive and she could no longer bear the costs with no sponsors.

She pointed that only Ghandour Cosmetics have supported as the only corporate entity that offers gifts to the awardees that include athletes, journalists and sports administrators.

She commended the media houses and Journalists who have promoted the course such as GNA, GTV, Metro TV, News Ghana, African Sports, modernghana, amaghanaonline, TV Africa, Ultimate Sports Ghana, HSTV, Ghanaian Times, Daily Guide and Daily Graphic.

Madam Commodore expressed that WISA has honoured over 200 people who became better after receiving the Award and she has never regretted doing something from her heart.

Dr. Dodzie Numekevor, the Director General of the NSA congratulated her and wished her good health and long life, so that she sees the fruits of her labour.

Deputy Director General of the NSA, Mr. Abdul Majeed Bawa who was present hoped that the WISA Awards will continue as it is a big brand.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Three National Service Associations to socialize through Fun Games this weekend

Three National Service Personnel Associations have set Saturday, April 27, 2024 to engage in Fun Games at the Yikrosec Sports Complex.

In the heart of Yilo Krobo, Asuogyaman, and Lower Manya, excitement fills the air as personnels gear up for an unforgettable NASPA Inter District Fun Games.

From thrilling football matches to intense card playing, the strategic maneuvers of table tennis to the traditional allure of Oware, the Games which is generously sponsored by the Asuogyaman MP, Asuogyaman District Assembly, Agyebeck Investment Ltd from Akosombo and the luxurious Sweet Green Hotel in Senchi, promises to showcase the talent, camaraderie and sportsmanship that define our beloved districts.

Whether it's the competitive spirit of relay races or the laughter of sack races and lime and spoon, there's going to be something for everyone to enjoy.

Beyond the competition, the event also represents a deeper celebration of unity, diversity and community pride. It is a time for neighbors from Asuogyaman, Lower Manya and Yilo Krobo to come together, share in laughter and friendly rivalry as well as forging bonds that transcend their district lines.

As the sun rises on Saturday, April 27, 2024, the spirit of Asuogyaman, Lower Manya and Yilo Krobo personnel comes alive with anticipation of the diverse array of activities from 9am, embarking on a journey of athleticism, friendship and shared memories.

Story by: Felicia A. Yeboah

(PRO, Asuogyaman NASPA)

Their first time abroad, their first international friendly game, their first victory. In the last week, Black Star Polo– the team founded by American coach Asante Sefa-Boakye to promote the development of waterpolo in Ghana – has reached new heights by flying to South Africa and participating in a series of training sessions and friendly games in Durban.

Sefa-Boakye and his collaborators brought with them the kids who were unable to participate in the HaBaWaBa International Festival last summer due to bureaucratic obstacles related to granting entry visas to Italy, together with other older players.

 “Waterpolo was part of a larger initiative regarding water safety promoted by the Prince Charleen of Monaco Foundation and local clubs such asSiyasindisa Academy. In addition to training, kids took part in some clinics on water safety livesaving”, Sefa-Boakye tells Waterpolo Development. In order to travel to South Africa, he changed the destination of tickets Black Star Polo did not use last year to come to Italy. “The boys traveled abroad for the first time in their lives and they did it to play waterpolo. This trip let them rediscover their enthusiasm after last year’s disappointment, when they were unable to participate in the HaBaWaBa International Festival”.

The moment of greatest enthusiasm is obviously linked to waterpolo… In the swimming pool of the Durban High School a Black Star Polo team formed by 9 little waterpolo players between the ages of 13 and 10 faced in a friendly game boys slightly older of the Elite Waterpolo Academy team, gaining a stunning 6-5 victory: in their own small way, kids of Black Star Polo achieved a historic result, obtaining the first success of Ghanaian waterpolo in an international match, even if it was unofficial. “It was extraordinary, for Black Star Polo this is a very important goal. Before the game the coach of the opposing team, the South African international Dylan Cronje, had asked his players to take it easy on us, but at the end of the first quarter he changed his mind: ‘Wait a minute… you guys are good!’, he said. Our kids were very happy even if they didn’t cheer for long outside the pool: the temperature in South Africa is decidedly lower than in Ghana and they weren’t used to that kind of cold”.

The older Black Star Polo players then played another mixed team friendly game against Siyasindisa Academy, who won 7-4. “Everyone we met in South Africa was extraordinary – Sefa-Boakye commented -. As for us, the whole experience was very important for Black Star Polo and Ghanaian waterpolo, which once again showed its potential. We are rebuilding confidence after the disappointment of missing the trip to Italy last year and South Africa was motivating”.

Next goal of Black Star Polo is the HaBaWaBa International Festival: the Ghanaian team is registered for the U12 tournament in Lignano Sabbiadoro, but its participation is linked to the players obtaining entry visas and raising enough funds in order to fly to Italy. Sefa-Boakye is looking for sponsors, but anyone can contribute via the Black Star Polo page on the GoFundMe platform.

Source wpdworld.com

Serene Insurance Ghana Limited, a leading and the fastest growing insurance company in Ghana, has renewed its commitment with the annual Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon, fixed for August 3, 2024.

The third edition of the Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon would witness the finest athletes across Ghana and Africa as they compete for more than GHC 50,000 in cash prizes.

Serene Insurance would provide insurance coverage for all participants in the race, running vest for over 500 athletes, and an undisclosed cash package.

Mr. Henri Senyo Penni, General Manager of Medivents Consult, organisers of the event expressed their appreciation to the company for their support, adding that it would motivate athletes to put up their best performance.

He thanked Serene Insurance Company for their continuous support for the marathon, which is part of celebrations to mark this year's Homowo festival.

Mr. Senyo Penni noted that this year’s race would see a massive improvement in terms of the safety and security of athletes.

Mr. Penni disclosed the formal launch of this year's Marathon would be held in May to herald the commencement of activities leading to the climax.

Nana Yaw Owusu Dwomoh – General Manager in charge of Business Development and Marketing said his outfit was committed to the annual race hence the need to renew the relationship.

He noted that they were looking forward to a great event this year, as the annual marathon features in their annual activities.

The 2024 Accra Inter-City Homowo Marathon would begin at the Accra Sports Stadium through some principal streets and end at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

Source Willie Ezah

… Paul Amoah And Azamati lead Ghana quartet to World Relays, Bahamas 2024

President of Ghana Athletics, Mr. Bawa Fuseini is very optimistic that Ghana’s 4x100 meters team will qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

He said all the potential athletes who can qualify are training very intensively for other qualifying meets to make it to the Olympic Games.

Speaking to Theo Sampah on GTV Sports programme, The Page, he assures Ghanaians that certainly some athletes will fly the flag of Ghana in Paris come July and August.

The 2023 African Games 200m gold medalist and 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medalist Joseph Paul Amoah and national100m record holder, Benjamin Azamati, will lead Ghana's quest for Olympic qualification at the World Relays slated for the Bahamas on May 4-5, where 14 of the 16 relay places in Paris will be determined.

They will be complemented by the 13^th African Games 200m finalist Ibrahim Fuseini, West Texas A&M's Isaac Botsio, and Edwin Gadayi, member of the silver medal winning quartet in in Accra.

With 93 days to begin the Olympic Games, no Ghanaian athlete has yet confirmed qualification to the Paris 2024 event, however Mr. Fuseini is very sure they will make it.

Ghana's men's 4x100m relay team represents the country's brightest chance of qualifying for the multi-sport event..

Team Ghana will have two opportunities to book an Olympic ticket in the Bahamas.

On the first day, the top two teams in each heat will advance to the final, which will take place on Day 2. Making the final will also secure their qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. So Team Ghana will qualify for the Olympic Games if they make the final.

If they fail to make the final on Day 1, they will have another opportunity on Day 2 when all the teams who do not make the final, will compete in the additional round where the top two teams in each of the 3 heats will also qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The remaining two places will then be determined using the ranking system during the period up to June 30, 2024.

Joe Paul and Benjamin Azamati were part of Ghana's 4x100m relay team who made it to the final at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

According to Mr. Fuseini, high jumpers Rose Amoanimaa Yeboah and Cadman Evans Yamoah who won gold at the 13^th African Games could also make it to the Paris Games if they are able to improve upon their points and performance at certified athletics meets.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The name Joseph ‘JoJo’ Awinongya Jr. is now a special name and personality to many young people, and even the elderly and the honourables as well as distinguished love the rising super star in Chicago, the Unites States of America.

After winning the Chicago Golden Gloves, he has become the idol and inspiration to many kids and the youth.

They follow him, they want to see him and they want to hear from him. Most take pictures with him and love his autograph.

Incidentally Jojo who has Ghanaian parents is also born to give motivational speeches. He is blessed with sense of humour and gift of strength in fields that he operates, mostly outside the ring. He is a giver and admirable.

At school, he is a genius as everyone loves him. In his community, he is the Super Hero.

The young boxer wrote his name in boxing history on April, 13, 2024 by fortifying the championship title at the Chicago Golden Gloves 2024 tournament in the 165 lb. Junior Open division.

‘JoJo’ as he is now affectionately called delivered a masterful performance, earning a unanimous decision against his formidable adversary, Yandel Hernandez from Knuckleheads Boxing Gym.

The electrifying showdown unfolded at Cicero Stadium, where JoJo's unwavering resolve and technical finesse captivated the audience. Some dignitaries who watched the bout were Father Michael Pfleger, former Secretary of State Jesse White, Wasfi Tolaymat, Michael Mikuska, Tyrone Muhammad with ECCSC, and Dr. Cornel Darden Jr. Their presence added an extra layer of motivation and camaraderie to JoJo's journey to victory.

Joseph Awinongya Jr. representing Sam Colonna Boxing Gym has dedicated countless hours to honing his craft under the guidance of seasoned trainers. His relentless pursuit of excellence culminated in this remarkable achievement.

"Joseph's dedication and heart have been evident throughout his journey," remarked Coach Sam Colonna. "His unwavering commitment to the sport has paid off, and we couldn't be prouder."

The Chicago Golden Gloves has a storied legacy, and JoJo's name now graces the annals alongside other legendary champions. His victory serves as an inspiration to aspiring boxers, emphasizing the importance of hard work and perseverance.

The Chicago Golden Gloves was founded in 1923 and still remains one of the most prestigious amateur boxing tournaments in the United States of America. It has launched the careers of numerous professional boxers and continues to thrive.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

…Ghana Para Athletes to compete at 2024 Marrakech WPA Grand Prix Tournament in Morocco

A five-member para-athletics team has left Ghana for Morocco's 2024 Marrakech World Para Athletics (WPA) Grand Prix competition set for April 22-28, 2024.  is.

The competition which is a qualification event for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games would allow the classification of the first Ghanaian Para Athlete in shot put and standing javelin, Edmund Govina among others.

Other team members who have already been classified include 21-year-old Amos Ahiagah, a right-arm amputee who will compete in the 100-meter, 200-meter, 400-meter, and men's long jump events.  

19-year-old Diana Kuubetegr, also an arm amputee, will compete in the women's 800-meter and 1,500-meter events.

Zinabu Issah, an experienced para-athlete, will also compete in the women's sitting shot put, discus throw, and javelin events.

Mr Foster Kwarteng, Chairman of the Ghana Para Athletics Association, called on corporate bodies to support the Samson Deen-led Ghana Paralympic Committee to enable many more heroes yet to gain classification to attend other Paris 2024 Paralympic Games qualification events coming up in Japan, Switzerland, and France respectively.

With the support of NPC Ghana, Ghana's Dr Abena Tannor, a WPA international classifier, is currently in Morocco as one of the elected officials worldwide.

The African Paralympic Committee: AfPC Paris 2024 Qualification Grant sponsored the team and ten other selected athletes in Africa, a program to sponsor para-athletes across the African Region.  

Mr. Samson Deen, President of the National Paralympic Committee Ghana and African Paralympic Committee, has received support and encouragement from from the Ministry of Youth & Sports and the National Sports Authority to promote para-sports in Ghana through its 2020-2027 strategic plan.

The NPC introduced the para athletes at the first Extraordinary General Assembly held last Saturday.

From Sammy Heywood Okine