The opening ceremony of the African Cup for the Club Championship 2021 was held today 24th November 2021, at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Stadium in Accra.
Speaking at the ceremony , the President of the Ghana Hockey Association, Dr. Ben Asante appreciated all for honoring the program. In his opening address, he stated that, the Hockey Association seek for infrastructural development of their hostel, changing rooms for players and referees. He also mentioned that, there is a need to develop personnel that is players, coaches and the technical officials in order to be abreast with the new rules and regulations of the game. He also spoke about the funding aspect of the game by partnering corporate entities to augment what the Government is providing.
The Director General of the National Sports Authority. Prof. Peter Twumasi in his keynote address expressed his gratitude and was pleased that this is the first ever tournament to be held after renovation works started by Government of Ghana, Bank of Ghana, Ghana Gas and other corporate bodies. He thanked HE. Nana Addo Danquah Akufo Addo for his tremendous support in sports infrastructure across the country.
He emphasized that Hockey is one of the sporting discipline that has contributed to national development. He stated that, through hockey many have gained employment into the government organization and in return are giving back to society in diverse ways. He commended the hockey team for making Ghana proud both locally and international.
He further acknowledged the various trailblazers of the hockey game such as Madam Theodosia Okoh, Madam Elizabeth King, the leadership of Dr. Asante, Adolf Adjei, the local organizing committee and all stakeholders of hockey.
The championship is expected to end on the 30th of November 2021.
Story: Marvelina Ayi-Bonte.