'The Big Game' featuring Skillsman XI versus License Coaches XI comes off at La, McDan Park on August 31, 2025

Skillsman Tornado, now a CAF License D Coach has thanked all who have contributed to his projects of selecting and training young footballers. He said the young boys will dazzle to the delight of football fans on the match day.

"The boys will thrill in the big game, come and see with your own eyes the skills and talent" he expressed.

The anticipated big game between the freshest set of young coaches, who took part in the CAF license D course will take place on Sunday 31st August, 4pm at the La McDan Park against Skillsman Tornado XI.

Skillsman Tornado who has been scouting and grooming young players starting from age 6 said the game aims to expose the players and test the skills of the new coaches.

He noted that the Skillsman 11 Foundation is an NGO trying their best in the area of Sports in general and football in particular.

Skillsman who is a cousin of Black Stars Legend Stephen Appiah also blessed with football power and skills.

He is involved in boxing management and beach soccer organization, aiding clubs and players around Teshie and Nungua in Accra.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Ghana's Middleweight boxer is the last man standing for the nation and Africa at the innovative WBC Grand Prix going on in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

He is also rated among the top ten boxers by BoxinGhana -Pound for Pound.

Last week the 2020 Tokyo Olympian was in the ring, but he did not fight, however he got his qualification medal and got the opportunity to present a medal to an opponent in his weight class.

Speaking to Yours Truly in an exclusive interview at the Bukom Boxing Arena on his return to Accra, The 'Sharp Shooter' as he is known expressed satisfaction and joy over where he has reached by representing at the WBC event.

He disclosed that as an alternative opponent he has the chance to fight if any of the qualified boxers get injured or fail to report.

According to Samed, he is very glad to be in the show because it has really exposed him to meet the big men at WBC and also been offered an insurance package worth $100,00 through the Grand Prix programme.

"I have the chance of fighting a WBC Championship if I perform well, so the exposure and experience is massive. Indeed I am most grateful to Dr. Addae Opoku Amoako of Ace Power Promotions and my manager Edwin Theo Addo, CEO of Akotoku Academy for supporting my dream. I also thank my coaches for guiding me through" he said.

Shakul praised God as he was robbed and the verdict as overturned in his first fight, so that lesson made him perform better in his subsequent bouts.

His senior brother Bastie Samir,  the original Beast of Ghana Boxing also spoke to Yours Truly and he assured his fans of a grand comeback.

The former sparring partner of Floyd Mayweather hinted that he is still training and not hanged his gloves.

"I will return big and massively at the right time" he stated.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Sports Education and Management (SEM) presents ‘Monaco - The Night To Prove’ at Bukom Boxing Arena on September 12 as Ernest Akushey aka 'Baubali' faces Jacob Dickson aka 'The Beast' in a Cruiserweight contest at the Bukom Boxing Arena.

The introduction of boxers on the bill was done at on Friday where Dickson (14-2-0) promised to switch off Baubali in rounds three or four and end his career because he doesn't have IQ in boxing.

Ernest Akushey (6-1-0) replied that he will shock Dickson as he has corrected his mistakes, and coming with something new and explosive. He thanked all his fans all over the world.

In the undercard Daniel Gorsh aka Emperor,  John Laryea (Expensive Boxer) from the Bronx Boxing Club and Musah Rahman Lawson aka Awoodade are all featuring.

Lawson who was signed by Edward Coleman to join the SEM stable alongside 13 year old juvenile boxer Benjamin Ankrah for 3 years with a promise of scholarship, welfare package and education also promised a good show.

The reigning national Super Welterweight champion said the new contract should help him to climb to the top ranks in WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO.

Coleman added that the package include advertising of the boxers and managing them to become international champions.

Present to grace the event were GBA representatives, Michael Tetteh, Lord Acquaye, Patrick Johnson, Derek Ankrah and Yours Truly.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Madam Angela List, CEO of Nguvu Mining Limited and Chairperson of Danny List Foundation has sent a message of profound and sincere condolence to HE President John Dramani Mahama, the people of Ghana and close families of the eight gallant heroes who lost their lives in the tragic helicopter accident on August 6, 2025.
According to Madam List, she was devastated on hearing the very painful lose to the nation as the people involved were very distinguished gallant gentlemen who were on national duty serving the nation.
She stated that this incident should make Ghanaians come together and be strong in unity as a nation.
She described Hon. Dr. Edward Omane Boamah who she met at the International Youth Empowerment programme as a kind modest and patriotic personality, and noted that the nation has lost a fine gentleman alongside the others.
"May his kind soul rest in peace together with the others" she stressed.
She called for prayers, support, kindness and honour for their families.
Dr Edward Omane Boamah - Minister for Defence, ⁠Alhaji Dr Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed - Minister for Environment, ⁠Alhaji Muniru Mohammed - Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Dr Samuel Sarpong - Vice Chairman, NDC, Mr Samuel Aboagye - Former Parliamentary candidate, Squadron leader Peter Anala, Flying Officer Twum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo lost their lives while travelling to Obuasi to engage in a safe mining event.
Madan List is Chairperson of the foundation named after the Ghanaian US Based professional golfer, Danny List.
By Sammy Heywood Okine

General Secretary of the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) Mr. Patrick Johnson has explained that the Normalization Committee to lead in the reforms of Ghana Boxing will not work beyond 2026.

Speaking to Yours Truly in an exclusive interview, he said the Normalization Committee is supposed to work hand in hand with the Ghana Boxing Authority to bring on board the recommendations of the Ministerial Committee to lead the sport to improve at all levels, from juvenile, female boxing amateur and professional.

“The whole eco system of Ghana Boxing is going to be affected for the better so that all stakeholders will enjoy” he said.

According to the General Secretary the Normalization Committee will introduce a 5 year development plan whereby investment would be applied into the sport and the nation is going to attract deals to welcome international boxing deals to stage world title bouts and other engagements to boast business and sports tourism.

He urged the boxing stakeholders to support the Normalization Committee to do their work in time to hand over to a new President and Board.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Telecom giants, MTN Ghana on Thursday announced a landmark $2milion sponsorship package at MTN House, their head office at Ridge in Accra to become the headline sponsor of four national teams of Ghana, namely the Black Stars, Black Queens, Black Satellites and Black Starlets, as well as the Under 19 Elite Championship.

Mr. Stephen Blewitt, the CEO of MTN Ghana said the deal as a commitment to deepening the relationship between the company, the GFA, and the nation’s football fraternity.

“This sponsorship deepens the bond between the people of Ghana, the GFA, the ministry, and the sports community. It’s about national pride, youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and building a sustainable future for football in our country” he said.

“By embracing all the national teams; male and female, junior and senior we affirm that every Ghanaian player deserves the chance to shine. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, we believe Ghana can go all the way” he added.

He expressed that it is about national pride, youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and building a sustainable future for football in this country.

“We believe that every Ghanaian player deserves the opportunity to shine, and we’re committed to giving our national teams the resources, preparation, and exposure they need to succeed.”

Mr. Blewett also emphasized MTN Ghana’s dream of seeing Ghana win the World Cup. “With unity, preparation, and the belief of 33 million Ghanaians, we can change the narrative,” he added.

Mr. Edwin Simone Kurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association welcomed the partnership, saying it a “timely boost” for the teams ahead of major competitions.

He praised MTN Ghana for their continued support of Ghanaian football. “Since the 2010-2011 football season, MTN has stuck with the FA, believed in the FA leadership, and believed in the vision of offering opportunities to the youth of our country”.

Mr. Okraku emphasized the significance of the partnership, noting that it’s not just about the Black Stars, but also about the Black Queens, Black Satellites, and Black Starlets. “MTN Ghana is committed to investing in our today and our collective future,” he added.

Madam Wilhemina Asamoah, Chief Director of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation commended MTN Ghana for their support of football and encouraged other corporate bodies to follow suit.

“Ghana is undergoing comprehensive reforms to position the country as a hub for continental trade, business, tourism, and education,” she said. “The Ministry of Sport and Recreation is pursuing initiatives to promote corporate partnerships with sport, and we urge all stakeholders to work together to develop our sports industry” she noted.

The deal which runs from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2027 is expected to provide crucial financial and logistical support as Ghana’s national teams prepare for upcoming qualifiers and tournaments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Present were Exco members of the GFA, retired Black Stars players, captains of the Black Satellites and Black Queens, coaches, senior managers of MTN Ghana, the Ghana National Supporters Union and the media.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

The 2025 edition of the Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Peace Cup promises excitement and entertainment as coaches of the competing clubs have met to media to assure fans what they should expect on Sunday  August 17 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The final presser took place at the Gbese Mantse Palace in Accra where the head coaches and captains of Accra Hearts of Oak and Kpando Heart of Lions revealed to the media their preparations and plans ahead of the Cup Match.

Coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani said it is a very important match, which they need to win for the fans after missing the President's Cup.

He expressed that players are training hard and he expects an entertaining game.

"We are building a team with players who have the winning mentality. We are in and ready to challenge for every event" he said.

Bashiru Hayford of Heart of Lions noted that last year they came, saw and played but did not conquer. "We are here again and this time will be different because we started preparing long time ago and the boys want to win. It's a very important match for us, we have other matches with Hearts and we are glad to play with them, we are here to grace the occasion and honour the Gbese Mantse to promote peace and unity.  We are coming to make history. I have tasted this soup before and I know how it feels like, we are working underground and we will shock Hearts of Oak, only two of our players have left" he indicated

Hearts of Oak Captain Ben Asare thank all present and the opportunity to play again.

He assured fans of the players’ readiness to face Heart of Lions and win since they are the older club.

Bismark Anim, Captain of Heart of Lions said its a good test for both teams, but they have trained hard and well prepared to win.

According to Sammy Amin Addo, the chief organiser, Volta Region chiefs and people are interested and coming to Accrra to give full support as they will be represented by the Regional Minister and MCE.

He confirmed curtain raisers between Accra West versus Accra North colts players and Legends versus the British High Commission.

He also assured of good entertainment and cultural activities as the Black Star Experience office and Ghana Tourism Authority are backing the event.

He stated that the match will be used to honour the eight deceased gallant heroes who crashed in an helicopter accident and 16 children who died in a road accident.

The gate fees are Ga Mashie special at 5ghc, 10ghc, 20ghc, 100ghc and 200ghc for VIP.

Tinny, Jupiter and Yaa Pono will entertain fans with their music.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), has restated the Authority’s commitment to extend sustained support to Ghana’s national armwrestling team, Golden Arms following recent achievements.

The team once again showed their dominance on the continent after securing 55 medals at the just-ended Africa Armwrestling Championship in Abuja.

Ghana's successes, backed by corporate support, saw the delegation of Ghana Armwrestling Federation pay a courtesy call on the NHIA Executive Management in Accra to convey their gratitude for the Authority’s support ahead of the continental championship.

Addressing the delegation, Dr. Bampoe praised the team’s accomplishments, calling them a source of national pride after an impressive medal haul. He reflected on the 2023 Africa Games, where the team’s outstanding performance eclipsed the rest of Africa and drew nationwide admiration.

The Chief Executive Officer noted that, in line with its support for corporate Ghana, the NHIA is committed to investing in armwrestling to advance the GAF’s mission of making armwrestling a leading sport in the country.

“Everybody loves a winning team. We are proud to be associated with your success. So long as you continue to deliver, we will continue to support,” he said.

Mr. Charles Osei Asibey, President of the Ghana Armwrestling Federation, stated that the NHIA’s support greatly lifted the team’s morale during the championship, helping them secure 26 gold, 20 silver, and 9 bronze medals.

This latest feat brings the team’s overall tally to 405 medals, with approximately 67 per cent of the medals being gold.

The team announced their upcoming participation in the World Armwrestling Championship in Bulgaria from September 10 to 22, 2025, and also revealed that Ghana will host the 2027 African Armwrestling Championship.

Dr. Senanu Djokoto, NHIA’s Deputy Chief Executive for Operations, lauded the team’s leadership and performance, reaffirming the Authority’s readiness to deepen the partnership.

Present at the meeting was Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, Vice President, Ghana Armwrestling Federation, Mr. Husseini Akueteh Addy and Nii Otoo Larkyne.

As a gesture of appreciation, the team presented their medals to the NHIA Executive Management and gifted them an official team jersey.

Source : www.ghanaarmwrestling.org

The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) on Monday laid wreath at the Jubilee House to honor the memory of the compatriots who tragically lost their lives in an incident at Adansi in the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The wreaths, representing the GOC, the Commonwealth Games Association of Ghana, and the entire sporting fraternity.

The GOC President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie remarked that "The Ghana Olympic Committee, representing all national federations, athletes, coaches, and officials in sports, and has come to pay tribute to these gallant men who died in the service of our country."

He revealed that the late Omane Boamah was scheduled as a baton bearer for the King's Baton Relay which has been put on hold.

He added, "We remember them for their service to the nation, and it's fitting that we come here to pay our respects. As sports people, we believe in sacrifice for our country, and we're committed to instilling this value in our athletes, officials, and coaches. May God remember them for their service and rest their souls in peace."

The ceremony was attended by top officials of the GOC, including President Richard Akpokavie, 1st Vice President Mawuko Afadzinu, 2nd Vice President Frederick Otu Lartey, Secretary General Muniru Kassim Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General Bawah Fuseini, and board members Rafatu Inusah, Delphina Quaye, George Lamptey, George Tettey Lamptey, Kamal Sulley, Richmond Quarcoo, and Nathaniel Johnson.

Other notable attendees included Professor Francis Dodoo, Former GOC President; Charles Osei Asibey, Communications Director, GOC; and Christopher Essilfie, President for Modern Pentathlon.

Source GOC Communications