Nigerian hockey club Kada Stars have been crowned champions in both the male and female categories at the recently concluded 4-day Invitational Hockey Challenge Cup in Accra. They defeated Ghanaian clubs Ark Ladies and Ark Men in the finals.
The Challenge Cup, which was organised by Hockey Farm Sports, attracted ten clubs from Ghana and Nigeria. The event formed part of the international hockey break to help improve players’ performances as well as keep them motivated ahead of the next league season.
Speaking after the event, the CEO of Hockey Farm Sports, Mr. Ebenezer Frimpong, mentioned that plans are underway to expand the Challenge Cup to other clubs across West Africa. He indicated that the presence of Kada Stars in the maiden edition has set the stage for much bigger changes.
“It’s going to be an annual thing, and there will be a lot of rotation because other clubs have shown interest, so we may even expand it from West Africa into an African championship,” he said.
He also congratulated Kada Stars for exhibiting great performances and sportsmanship.
According to Frimpong, hockey needs massive financial backing to continue expanding across Africa. He used the opportunity to invite entities to support the growth of the sport.
The Assistant Commissioner, Human Resource at the Ghana Revenue Authority, Mr. Patrick Lartey, in an interview, commended the organisers for the success. He also called for more funding from corporate entities to help expand the game.
“The event is worth continuing. We all saw the performances from the players. Corporate companies should come on board to support this initiative. There are young players out there who need support. With that, we can have a lot of children off the street and reduce these ongoing social vices. The talents are there, let’s support them,” he said.
A hockey enthusiast and business mogul, Mr. Kwabena Darko, who played a key role in the successful organisation, described the event’s outcome as a very good one. He congratulated the participants for their showmanship.
The business mogul revealed plans to support next year’s edition by encouraging player development and promotion of the game.
The winners took home medals and a glamorous trophy. Individuals who also played key roles were decorated with medals as well.
