Rugby League courses held for coaches, match officials
The Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) has hosted Level 1 and 2 Rugby League Coaching and Match Officials Courses at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium and Legon Rugby Field.
Historically, Ghana becomes the first African nation to hold the courses that brought together participants from four regions and diverse sporting backgrounds.
Representatives from senior and basic schools, the National Sports Authority (NSA), Ghana Immigration Service (GIS) and rugby league clubs participated in the four-day intensive training programme led by International Rugby League (IRL) Coaches Manager, Martin Crick, Coach Tutor Gaby Haddad, and Match Official Educator, Phil Vivers Smith.
The sessions provided both technical knowledge and practical skills to advance rugby league in Ghana and across the African continent.
Speaking at the end of the course, Mr Martin Crick revealed that the energy, enthusiasm, and willingness of participants to acquire the much-needed knowledge about the sport were the hallmarks of how great the future of the sport will be in Ghana.
“The reason for coming here was to further the progress of the rugby league by increasing the number of qualified coaches to both the numbers and quality of players.”
“I want to congratulate the coaches and those that travelled considerable distances to attend. They worked hard to increase their knowledge and skills in this supportive environment. If these courses are anything to go by, then the future looks bright indeed for the sport in Ghana.”
RLFG President, Madam Juliana Storey, hailed the success of the course, affirming Ghana’s commitment to rugby league development on the continent.
“We are proud to lead by example and pave the way for sustainable growth in the sport.”
RLFG Technical Director, Mr Marshall Nortey, emphasised the programme’s significance, noting that the initiative establishes a solid foundation for rugby league’s future in Ghana. The passion and dedication of the participants were truly inspiring.”
On his part, the General Manager of the RLFG, Jafaru A. Mustapha, expressed pride in Ghana’s achievement, describing it as a significant step for the sport in Africa, and acknowledged the contributions of the educators, participants, and partners in making the programme a success.
The Rugby League Ghana now boast of 16 Level 1 certified coaches, 11 Level 2 certified coaches, 14 Level 1 match certified officials, 4 Level 2 match certified officials, and one accredited coach educator.
BY RAYMOND ACKUMEY
