Beach Soccer, A Ray Of Hope

The maiden edition of the Cal Bank Beach Soccer league ended on Saturday at the La Beach Resort amid excitement.

Ghana Beach Soccer Association (GABSA) president Yaw Ampofoh Ankrah described the championship as the most challenging project he had undertaken.

Yet, he pointed out, it was a potential breakthrough for sports development in coastal communities.

Keta Sunset Beach Soccer club wrote their names in gold in the premier division by emerging as winners of the maiden championship.

For their efforts, they took home a giant trophy, medals, a plaque and cash prize of GH¢2,000. Teshie United reigned supreme in the lower league, and they also picked a trophy, medals, a plaque and a cash prize of GH¢2,000.

Teshie United's coach, Theophilus Nii Armah of Obonu FM fame, went home with the Best Division One Coach prize, while Daniel Sedega of Keta Sunset won the Premier Best Coach prize.

The Division One Fair Play Award went to Nima Beach Soccer, with Senya Breku Sharks picking the Premier Division Fair Play prize. Fifteen-year-old Ibrahim Laryea took home the discovery of the year award.

Teshie's Yemofio recorded 20 goals to emerge top scorer in the lower league, while  Richard Osa hit the back of the net 30 times to win the Premier edition.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon Clement Kofi Humado, commended the sponsors for rallying behind the sport, and pledged his outfit's support by constructing a stadium for the sport.

Headline sponsor Cal Bank put in GH¢40,000 as part of its social responsibility. Supporting companies are Voltic Mineral Water, DSTV, Zoil, among others.

By Kofi Owusu Aduonum