The Ghanaian Youth Baseball5 team, the Golden Palms, arrived safely at Kotoka International Airport on Tuesday, January 14, 2024, after successfully defending their title in the Africa Youth Championship in South Africa.
This victory marks the team’s qualification for the World Youth Championship in Mexico in November 2025. Team captain Elizabeth Lavor expressed her gratitude to God and the team’s coaches for their hard work and dedication.
“We were well-prepared for the tournament, and our coaches did an excellent job,” Lavor said. “Although we lost our first game against Tunisia, we learnt from our mistakes and came back stronger.”
Coach Daniel Yaw Atiemo also praised the team’s resilience and determination. “It wasn’t an easy journey, but we motivated the players to keep pushing despite the challenges,” he said.
The team’s victory has been hailed as a significant achievement for Ghanaian sports. Ghana Baseball and Softball Federation President Ernest Danso emphasised the importance of government support for sports development.
“This victory is a message to the government that sport is a big thing, and it brings joy to everybody,” Danso said. “We need the basics and fundamentals to build upon.”
Ghana Olympic Committee President Ben Nunoo Mensah congratulated the team on their achievement and promised to reward them for their hard work.
“You guys are doing so well, and I’m not surprised Ahenfo won the MVP and Elizabeth as well,” Mensah said. “I have something special for you, and for the rest of the team, I will discuss with my GOC board to find something very good for you.”
The Golden Palms’ victory has sparked excitement and anticipation for the World Youth Championship in Mexico. With their determination and resilience, the team is poised to make Ghana proud once again.
