“Hockey is the Reason,” a youth team from the Central Region of Ghana, has emerged as champions in the Youth Division of the 2024 Salpholda Hockey League. In their debut season, the team finished at the top of the league standings with 22 points, achieving an impressive record of eight wins and no defeats.
The team secured their title in style, defeating the Arkboys 3-0 on August 24 at the Theodosia Okoh Hockey Pitch. Captain Prince Andoh attributed their victory and first-ever trophy to the determination and support of their coaches and managers. “We are not used to playing on turf because, back in Cape Coast, we play on a sand and stone-mixed park. However, with a determined mindset and clear targets, we were able to overcome these challenges and make history for ourselves and our beloved club,” Andoh stated. He added, “By winning the league, we have proven to Ghana that we have talent in the Central Region despite lacking proper facilities, and we are ready for the A League.”
Coach Barnard Wilberforce expressed his gratitude to God for safe travels and an injury-free season. “It has been a challenging task to travel every weekend, with transportation issues being a significant factor. But with the support of our team managers and supporters, that pressure was somewhat eased,” he explained. Coach Wilberforce added, “Winning the trophy was our target, and I am glad we have achieved that.”
In other Youth Division matches, Tema Manhean defeated Einstein Hockey 3-0 to finish second with 19 points. Einstein Hockey placed third with 7 points, the Arkboys were fourth with 6 points, and Young Financiers finished at the bottom of the league log with 4 points.
