The 2024 President’s Cup, an annual showcase of Ghana’s finest rugby league talent, took centre stage on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium. The event brought together players from Greater Accra, Central, and Ashanti Regions, offering a vibrant display of skill, determination, and the growing impact of rugby league in Ghana.
This year’s event was particularly significant as it celebrated Mrs. Juliana Storey, the first female president of the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG). Under her leadership, the sport continues to gain momentum, and her vision for elevating rugby league to new heights was celebrated throughout the day.
In its fourth year, the President’s Cup, which debuted in 2021, has evolved into a multi-division competition featuring men’s, women’s, and boys’ teams. Over 100 players from various communities, senior and junior high schools, participated in this year’s event, further highlighting the sport’s grassroots development.
U19 Boys: National Team Dominates the Day
The day opened with a clash between the U19 Boys’ National Team and the President’s Team, comprising young talents from Awutu Winton SHS, Pentecost SHS, Aduman SHS, St. Michael SHS, and Akrofrom JHS. The National Team showcased their strength with a commanding 26-6 victory.
The first half saw the national team score three tries, converting two for a 16-0 lead. Despite a spirited effort by the President’s Team, who managed a try and conversion in the second half, the National Team added two more tries and a conversion to seal the win.
Women’s National Team Outclasses Opponents
In the women’s division, the National Team continued their dominance, securing a 22-12 win against the President’s Team. The first half ended 10-0, with the national team scoring two tries and converting one.
The second half offered more excitement as both teams scored three tries each. However, neither side could convert their kicks, resulting in a 12-12 draw for the half. The national team’s strong first-half performance proved decisive, securing the overall victory.
Men’s National Team Stunned in Narrow Loss
The day’s highlight was the men’s clash, where the National Team faced a resurgent President’s Team. In a dramatic turn of events, the President’s Team claimed a 20-18 victory, marking the National Team’s first defeat in three years.
The first half ended 14-10 in favour of the President’s Team, who scored three tries and converted one. The national team responded with two tries and a conversion, narrowing the gap.
In the second half, the National Team surged ahead with two tries, taking an 18-14 lead. However, with just three minutes left, Jonathan Adotey scored a try for the President’s Team, and Darryl Amoatey’s precision conversion secured a thrilling 20-18 win.
A Celebration of Growth and Innovation
The President’s Cup 2024 was graced by Keith McMahon, Deputy UK High Commissioner, who commended the RLFG’s efforts in nurturing talent and promoting inclusivity in the sport. Beyond the matches, fans and players had the opportunity to engage with the esports version of rugby league, showcasing the Federation’s innovative approach to expanding the sport’s appeal.
As the final whistle blew on an unforgettable day, the 2024 President’s Cup not only celebrated the sport’s past but also underscored its promising future in Ghana. With leaders like Mrs. Juliana Storey at the helm, rugby league is poised to continue its remarkable journey in the years to come.
