Ghana Team enjoy Independence Day Celebrations

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To the average person it is probably any other day, but March 6th is probably the most important day in any Ghanaian’s year. Despite this wonderful country being so deeply religious, there is something else which Ghana values above the rest, her independence and young heritage as a Republic.

March 6th 1957 marked the day that this nation’s people, led by National hero Dr Kwarme Nkrumah, won its’ freedom by the British Empire. Before this date, Ghana had been known as the Gold Coast and was most notable for her brutal history involving centuries of exploitation from the land and people, through taking of gold and mineral reserves and also the taking of the people. The greatest crime against humanity in history emanated from Ghana’s beautiful coast. European forts were utilised for the trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, the horrors of the Middle Passage were not much worse than the conditions people from West Africa were kept in at Castles such as Cape Coast and Elmina in Ghana’s Central Region.

Volunteers came to spectate, whilst Ghanaians came not only to celebrate, but to remember the struggles their forefathers went through for their right to freedom. The national slogan of ‘Freedom and Justice’ stands proudly above the Black Star Arch in Accra’s Independence Square, opposite to where yesterday’s celebrations commenced.

For nearly everybody in the United Through Sport Ghana entourage this was their first chance to experience Ghana’s Independence Day in the capital. Our residential Academy players come from all over Ghana. We have representative players from the far North much closer to Burkina Faso than Accra. Several players emanate from the Eastern and Volta regions touching Togo,whilst large contingent have arrived from Ghana’s second city, Kumasi and the surrounding ‘Ashanti’ region, an area deeply affected by Ghana’s centuries of toils and tribulations with Colonialism.

An ominous morning greeted the crowd. Grey skies threatened and nearly succeeded in turning a proud day to one of farce. The UTS representatives were amongst the capacity crowd that witnessed the other side of Ghana’s hot tropical weather, the deluges of rain that descend in an instant. The relentless rain and wind tried its best to mar the celebrations of this special day.

The experience Ghana imposes on her visitors is something that leaves its mark. The strength and honour shown by the schoolchildren, armed forces and emergency service representatives that marched on behalf of their people in Black Star Square was a true sign of patriotism. These marchers, [upon receiving a standing ovation on their exit from the square] responded in the most Ghanaian fashion one could imagine. In no way deterred by hours of withstanding ferocious gales and rains, they happily danced for the thousands that had packed into the stands of the square. Together the servicemen in an outrageous display of patriotism and comradery absorbed the force of the storm and used the energy to entertain their wet and admiring onlookers.

The United Through Sport Ghana players, staff and volunteers did not witness a typical Independence Day comprised of proud speeches and order [the public address could hardly be heard over the winds]. The day epitomised the other facet of Ghana that its’ visitors come to love, the ability that all Ghanaians have to improvise something that seems ruined into something special and memorable in its own way. Whether this is small children using a ball made of trash and string to play football on wasteland or the serviceman standing tall and dancing together to salvage and savour a National Day of memorial and gratitude. The citizens of this young country really embody everything that people come to love and admire in Ghana.

Ghana Academy vs MTN Reality Starlets

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United Through Sport’s U15 Academy side accepted the invitation to play against a very different Academy team this week. Located on the fringes of Accra’s Central Business District, our players took to the ‘Yellow Arena’ to play the MTN Soccer Academy team. MTN is the biggest mobile phone provider in Africa.

In its’ seventh season, the MTN Soccer Academy is a Big Brother style reality show where player’s performances earn public votes, and staying in the house can win you a trial with Chelsea FC. The show has discovered many talented players that have gone on to play in major European leagues and also domestically, for Glo Ghana Premier League teams such as Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak.

The match was a fiercely competitive six aside contest. Although small sided games are a feature of most footballers training at any level, the United Through Sport boys did not have much time to adapt to the frenetic pace of the game and new format. The ‘playing for your life’ motive certainly seemed evident in the MTN players. Many of the United Through Sport Academy players have only played more a handful of matches on real grass and the wear on many of their boots gave their opponents a noticeable advantage.

The MTN team started strongly, playing with panache and confidence whilst our team struggled to hold onto the ball. As our players adapted to the conditions, and seemingly took control of the game, they were soon to discover why the MTN boys are so highly rated.

In the space of two minutes, two long distance thunderstrikes crashed into the top corners of the United Through Sport goal (Ahhhh!), leaving the goalkeeper absolutely no chance with either effort. Our Academy kept their heads up and continued to play their way back into the game, well crafted moves leading to some great chances that were denied by a pair of fine saves and the woodwork respectively.

Continuing to build up the pressure, our boys in red were caught by a cruel deflection to set up a counter attack to make it 3-0 to the MTN Academy. Not letting this get them down, Ibrahim Sulley, charged with leading the line for the United Through Sport Academy team, hit a quickfire brace to narrow the deficit with some fine finishing.

Unfortunately, the team could not convert their chances. In between having a stonewall penalty appeal denied they conceded two more soft goals against the run of play. A half time scoreline of 5-2 was a cruel reflection of a half that could easily have gone either way.

Encouraging and calming words from the United Through Sport coaches seemed to have worked, with Captain Joseph Amoah leading the team straight out of the blocks in the second period. Despite strong pressure from the visiting team, chances were not converted and lessons were not learned. Two near identical incisive counter attacks from the MTN team put the score almost out of reach at 7-2.

The match had seemingly settled into a frustrating pattern whereby the United Through Sport team could not finish their chances and were clinically punished for their frailties and inexperience. Ibrahim Sulley, the saviour of the first half and the brightest attacking spark on display, added his third and then fourth of the game to bring the away team back into contention. A further fifth goal hammered in from Akwasi Anockey visibly shook their opponents as the scoreline became 7-5. To their credit, the MTN side remained resolute and their stubborn defensive efforts paid off as they kept it tight and then capitalised on a late ‘gung-ho’ approach, adding two more final goals.
The United Through Sport Ghana Academy team has come a long way in a very short space of time. The players can be proud that they matched older and more experienced opponents in an unfamilar playing environment. Many of the opposing players may forge careers from this experience and it is the goal of United Through Sport thar our Academy players can too.

Academy Players compete for National Tennis Ranking

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Wednesday 5th February saw the National Tennis Centre, Accra, host the annual Ghana Tennis Association Competition held to determine National Rank.

United Through Sport Academy Tennis players, George and Emmanuel, made up 2 of the youngest of the 64 competitors present at the tournament which would only see players contest one set.

Both of our young talents began with tough opening matches. George began on the centre court, defeating his opponent 6-2 in a confident and stylish fashion. Academy Tennis coach Yaya watched on from the sidelines and revealed that he was content with George’s performance:

“What I see today is better, 90% of it is in his head and he just needs to work on his focus.”

Emmanuel won the first game against an imposing and experienced rival that had almost as many extra inches in height as extra years of experience. Unfortunately, Emmanuel lost the set 2-6 to the former top ranked Ghana Junior player. Coach Yaya added:

“It was a very even match and I am delighted to see the progression Emmanuel is making when we train being transferred onto the courts in official matches. He has matched a very experienced and physically stronger opponent today and could quite easily have come out victorious.”

In the round of 32 George was drawn to play one of the highest ranked Ghanaian men players from last year. Giving away a huge deficit in size and power, appearing just minutes after his first round matchup, 15 year old George battled to a very credible 4-6 defeat in the intense afternoon sunshine. The quality of his opponent brought out a rousing and improved performance that captivated the crowd with some dazzling rallies and fantastic winning shots.

The boys acquitted themselves in admirable fashion and did not look out of place amongst the nation’s best players. Coach Yaya evaluated the performances:

“The main thing we have been working on is trying not to finish on every point. This aspect of both players’ performance pleased me today. The focus and mental aspects were good.”

A tired George said that he would be working harder on the physical side of his training after tiring greatly in his close defeat to one of the top Ghanaian mens players.

With the talent the United Through Sport Academy boys have demonstrated and possess, coupled with the quality of their play and attitudes against bigger, stronger and more experienced opponents, it will surely only be a matter of time until they are challenging each other and the other, younger, Tennis Academy players in the finals of this and other tournaments.

Ghana Tennis Boys compete in Open Tennis Championships

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On Friday 27th December 2013, three of the United Through Sport Ghana Tennis Boys competed in the Accra Christmas Youth Open Tennis Championships, held at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Emmanuel Wettey, George Nyarko and Reginald Okai competed in the tournament, representing United Through Sport.

All three boys played exceptionally well and fought every point to the wire in each of their matches. Reginald Okai reached the group stages of the tournament, whilst Emmanuel Wettey and George Nyarko made it through to the final stages.

George finished third overall in the U-14’s competition, after defeating his opponent in his final match which decided third and fourth position in the tournament. Emmanuel made it through to the final of the tournament and finished in second place.

This was a wonderful result for all of the United Through Sport Ghana team and a fantastic way to end 2013. Congratulations boys! Everyone at United Through Sports looks forward to some more fantastic results in 2014!

Ghana Boys Play in the Accra Senior Open Tennis Championship

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Monday 2nd December was an exciting day for two of our Tennis Academy Boys, George Nyarko and Emmanuel Wettey, as they competed in the Accra Senior Open Tennis Championships at the Accra Lawn Tennis Club.

Both George and Emmanuel entered the Singles tournament and joined forces in the Doubles tournament to fly the United Through Sport flag. The Accra Senior Open Tennis Championships attracts players of a high standard and this year was certainly no different, as there were Davis Cup players and former Ghana number 1’s among the entrants. Volunteers and staff attended the tournament to cheer the boys on and show their support.

George and Emmanuel, who are both 14 years of age, played their Singles matches on the first day of the tournament, their opponents were all at least 20 years of age, showing just how talented our United Through Sport boys are already. They each played four Singles matches and won one match each; a fantastic achievement for both boys. On the second day the boys played in the Doubles tournament, although there were no victories for them they both played incredibly well and showed off just how much talent they have. Throughout both the Singles and Doubles tournament, Emmanuel and George did themselves proud, they played their hearts out and fought every single point down to the wire; they both really are big Tennis stars in the making!

Ghana U11’s and U13’s Football Tournament

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Friday 29th November saw the United Through Sport under 11’s and under 13’s teams compete in a Football Tournament held at Lizzy’s Complex in East Legon, Accra. The boys were accompanied by United Through Sport staff, volunteers and special guests who cheered them on as they took on their opposition teams. To add some extra importance to the day, a crew from TV Africa came along to film the boys playing and interview some of the UTS team.

The United Through Sport under 11’s team (green shirts) played first, the match was fast paced and action packed from the first whistle. The boys played extremely well and showed off their skill to those who had come along to support them, lots of great attempts at goals were played and the our United Through Sport boys scored two goals during the match. Unfortunately at the final whistle the boys were defeated 4 – 2, but they played a fantastic game and really did themselves and United Through Sport proud.

Next up, the United Through Sport under 13’s team (orange and black shirts) took to the pitch, the boys played really well and showed just how far they have come through their training over the past few months. The match was action packed with lots of great balls played and goals scored, the light faded as things got into full swing but this didn’t affect the match as the flood lights came on to ensure the match was played to full time. The match finished at 3 – 2 to the opposition team, another great effort from the United Through Sport boys.

After the match, United Through Sport staff were interviewed by the TV Africa crew, this was a great opportunity to promote United Through Sport Ghana and raise the profile of the work that is being in done in Accra. It was a great afternoon for everyone and the atmosphere amongst the boys and United Through Sport staff was fantastic as the day came to a close.

Scholarship Awards Ceremony in Ghana

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Thursday 26th September 2013 was a very special day for United Through Sport Ghana as the first ever Scholarship Awards Ceremony was held in Teshie, Accra and the very first intake of talented young football and tennis players received their Scholarships to the School of Excellence.

For the last 6 months the Ghana Team have travelled the length and breadth of the country in search of the country’s most talented young Tennis and Football players. Over 1000 boys were originally selected and this has now been whittled down to just 26 lucky boys who were awarded a scholarship for the United Through Sport School of Excellence. The scholarship will provide these boys with a good quality basic education and training in their chosen sport of either Tennis or Football. For those boys who do not live in close proximity to the United Through Sport Ghana office in Teshie, they will also receive food, accommodation and support during term times.

The ceremony was attended by the boys receiving their scholarships, their parents and family members, volunteers, coaches, staff and other boys who are still going through the selection process and hope to receive a scholarship of their own in the future. The ceremony began with a warm welcome and speech from James Dzandza, Director of United Through Sport Ghana, and an opportunity for parents to ask questions about their sons futures with United Through Sport. The presentation of scholarship certificates to the lucky final 26 boys followed, each certificate was presented by a representative of United Through Sport Ghana and the boys were accompanied by their parents for individual photos as they were presented.

After all of the formalities it was time to celebrate the boys achievement and this huge milestone for United Through Sport Ghana… big smiles were seen all around, not only from the boys but from their parents, family, volunteers and of course the United Through Sport team.

Impromptu entertainment was laid on by an older brother of one of the boys receiving their scholarship who showed off his impressive football skills to parents.

The afternoon was a huge success on all accounts and we wish the lucky scholarship recipients the very best of luck in their studies and training with United Through Sport.

Ghana School of Excellence Recruitment Day

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May 2013 saw the first part of the United Through Sport Ghana recruitment programme for over 1000 aspiring young football players who were all vying for their chance to receive a prestigious scholarship at the United Through Sport School of Excellence.
After weeks of scouring the country for Ghana’s budding young stars, the Ghana team and volunteers spent the day at a football ground in Teshie, as the young hopefuls were put through their paces. The day took the form of a football gala as the boys showcased their talent, technique and discipline to the team who would be deciding whether they would be going through to the next stage. Lots of people came along to support the players and cheer them on as they played their hearts out for a chance to move forward in the recruitment process.

To add to the occasion, the boys and the team were joined by former Ghana Black Stars Coach, Charles Akornor, who gave valuable input and feedback on the young players, as well as assisting with the final decision as to who would be selected to go through to the next stage of the process and move one step closer to receiving a scholarship for the United Through Sport School of Excellence.

After a long day, 22 exhausted young players were selected to go through to the next stage of the recruitment process which will include rigorous training schedules and aptitude tests over the course of the coming months.

A fantastic day was had by all, lots of celebrations from those who had made the grade and even those who were not lucky enough to get through to the next stage of the recruitment programme thoroughly enjoyed themselves and went home with a real sense of achievement.

Tennis Coach Prepares Ghanaian Youth Player for International Tournament

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United Through Sport Ghana Volunteer, Michael Rossi, of London UK, has been coaching at the National Tennis Centre in Accra for the past 6 weeks to assist the development of grassroots tennis in Ghana. During his time in Accra, Michael worked one-on-one with Toshi. Toshi is amongst the most promising young players in Africa. The fifteen year old hails from mixed Ghanaian and Nigerian heritage and has already competed in tournaments around Africa. Michael’s one-on-one coaching sessions will hopefully prepare him for victory in a tournament he is due to enter in Nigeria commencing later this week. The tournament will include the brightest prospects from West Africa to determine the highest ranked players in the region.

Michael has been working closely with International Tennis Federation trained coach and United Through Sport’s Tennis placement coordinator, Yaya. Yaya volunteers his time without pay to aid the development of Tennis in Ghana, helping children of all ages excel in the sport. He is helped by the wonderful facilities at the National Tennis Centre in Accra. The 4 court complex, which is situated in the shadow of the 40,000 capacity Accra Sports Stadium and opposite the landmarks of Independence Square, are vital to the continued development of the sport. Yaya stakes the ambitious claim to have a Ghanaian breaking into the Top 10 World Rankings.

Yaya was speaking courtside at the Ghana Tennis Championships that were taking place in Accra. Many of the players qualifying for the latter rounds are still young and yet to reach their full potential. Key to the development of Tennis in Ghana is the small coastal town of Winneba in Ghana’s Central region, which is home to a State funded Tennis Academy and has 8 courts and hosts many National training camps whilst acting as a fully residential Academy for the brightest prospects.

Michael and Yaya also coach a large group of dedicated young beginners, who are lucky enough to use the same facilities as Ghana’s elite players. These children from underprivileged backgrounds rely on donations to provide the resources they couldn’t participate without; shoes, balls and rackets are expensive even by Western standards. In Ghana, contributions from United Through Sport and our beneficiaries are giving kids the chance to play, improve and hopefully compete internationally like Toshi and maybe one day become household names.

Ghana U13’s Triumph in Football Gala

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A predictably scorching Easter Saturday in Teshie, Greater Accra witnessed the first in a series of United Through Sport organised Football Tournaments. Six teams would battle it out on the dusty Presby Park pitch to see who would be crowned inaugural Champions of the U13 Tournament.

Hosting the tournament, United Through Sport Ghana entered two teams of equal strength. Sporting United Through Sport, wearing blue were placed in Group A and Dinamo Football Beyond Frontiers (FBF) wearing all green in Group B. A round robin group format would see the teams with the best qualifying record meet in the final, to be played in the evening.

In a nervy opening performance, Sporting United Through Sport were lucky to grab an important 1-0 over the much fancied Apisco FC of nearby suburb Nungua. The victory came courtesy of a fine strike into the bottom corner from Sporting United Through Sport’s left winger Prosper.

It would be some time before the Dinamo FBF team took to the pitch, but with the other two games ending in draws both of our teams were well placed for qualification. Dinamo FBF took to the field and displayed the kind of inventive possession football that was reminiscent of Ghana’s Black Stars at the previous two World Cups. Centre midfielder Bernard Osei pulled the strings for the home side and sealed a comfortable 2-0 victory over [Billa’s] Future Leaders FC with a finely struck late penalty.

The other fixtures continued to impress with an array of spectacular goals being scored. Highlights included a 40 yard free kick flying into the top corner; a first time volley from outside of the area blazing into the back of the net and a impudent lob from an impossible angle to create a show reel that could easily feature several contenders for Match of the Day’s Goal of the Month Competition.

Both Sporting United Through Sport and Dinamo FBF ended the preliminary stage topping their groups, neither conceding a goal on their path to the final. Despite the familiarity of the sides, the final did not appear to be a friendly. Before Sporting United Through Sport took the lead from a well-crafted move and neat finish, the referee had yellow carded no less than 3 players for some overzealous tackling! Despite playing the more impressive football in the earlier stages of the tournament, Dinamo FBF failed to respond to going a goal down and eventually Sporting United Through Sport romped to a 3-0 victory.

The victory saw the teams swap shirts before typically raucous Ghanaian celebrations. UTS’ star player ‘Pato’ lifted the trophy. Pato’s midfield partner, Dennis Sowah took the Tournament ‘MVP’ Award and Goalkeeper Francis won the Best Goalkeeper Award after failing to concede a single goal all day.

The games were played in a superb spirit and we thank all of the teams and players for their efforts. The day ended with a customary Azonto competition. Even after a day of fighting it out in the unforgiving sun, players from all teams found the energy to close the tournament with superb displays of West African dancing, the only thing more natural to them than football!

The team at United Through Sport Ghana hopes their U15 and U17 teams can be as triumphant in their forthcoming tournaments as they prepare for the new season.