By Joseph Ayinga-Walter (Student of UniMAC-GIJ, ayingajoe@gmail.com, Tel: 0271610718)
The Ants and the Evolution of Football
In the wild, just like any living thing, countries, states, regions, and communities seek to amass and utilize God-given resources for survival. This concept, akin to the ants’ gathering during summer to prepare for the rainy season, mirrors the management of resources in Ghana’s football ecosystem. However, while some aspects of the ecosystem thrive, there are concerns about the lack of proper maintenance policies for pitches and stadiums. As football evolves, questions arise about the direction and management of resources in the last few decades.
The Need for Youth Resource Centers
According to FIFA codes and development frameworks, all countries are required to have at least one sports facility. FIFA relief funds are sent to various football federations to facilitate the development process. Ghana, known as a soccer nation, receives these funds but fails to invest in legacy projects such as football pitches, player accommodation hubs, and upgrading existing sports facilities to harness the abundance of talent in the country.
A Look Back at Football’s Transformation in Ghana
In the early 2000s, football in Ghana struggled to gain respect and impact. It was often considered a trade for rascals and ill-fated young men. However, thanks to modernization and global interest, football has become a lucrative market. Despite being an active and relevant competitor, Ghana lacks the necessary equipment and human resources to match its abundant talent. This deficiency is evident in the performances of various national teams.
The Role of Football Academies
Football academies provide a vital pathway for the growth of quality talents in Ghana. Properly structured and administered, these academies offer unbiased and effective training, essential for nurturing talent and overcoming the shortcomings of the existing directorate of football in the country. The ‘Right-To-Dream academy’ based in Akosombo is an exemplary with a revered reputation Africa.
The Sorry State of Youth Resource Centers
Azumah Nelson Youth Resource Centre, inaugurated to celebrate the legendary Ghanaian boxer, Azumah Nelson, has fallen into a state of disrepair due to a lack of maintenance. Once a vibrant sports facility, it now serves as grazing grounds for cattle and a habitat for wildlife, symbolizing the neglect of such important resources.
The Rise and Fall of Essipong Sports Stadium
Built to honour Ghana and Nigeria’s historic co-hosting of the African Cup of Nations in 2008, the Essipong Sports Stadium once boasted outstanding edifices and a massive seating capacity. However, after the tournament, the stadium’s fate took a downward turn, with neglect and lack of maintenance leading to its current state, resembling a “slave dungeon” rather than a once-celebrated sports venue.
The struggle of Ho Sports Stadium
Once considered among the best sporting facilities in Ghana, the Ho Sports Stadium has deteriorated over the years due to minimal maintenance. While still hosting major sporting events, it faces challenges, especially with flooding. The surrounding Adaklu Youth Resource Centre experiences similar issues, leading to dissatisfaction among sports enthusiasts.
Also is the Nkawkaw stadium believed to have been turned into a maize plantation field. For more on that, click on link read the report by Veteran writer Jerome Otchere
Redemption and hope for Ghana’s football
Despite the challenges faced by Ghana’s football ecosystem, there is hope for redemption. By implementing proper maintenance policies and investing in youth resource centers and football academies, the country can harness its abundant talent and regain its position as a formidable force in African football. With dedication and a renewed commitment to the sport, Ghana’s football future can be a shining beacon, lighting the way for the next generation of talented footballers.
