President of Hockey Federation satisfied with preparations

Accra, May 27, GNA - President of the Africa Hockey Federation, (AfHF), Mr Seif Dini Ahmed has expressed satisfaction with the level of preparations made by the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the Ghana 2009 Hockey Africa Cup for Nations, to be hosted inn Accra. Speaking at a press conference after inspecting the 1,200 capacity Hockey Stadium under construction in Accra, Mr Dini Ahmed described the facilities as world class ones with the latest technology.

He said the water based turf which also under-construction is the third in the world and second in Africa, adding that Ghana has indeed hit the required mark for staging the continental competition. "I was here on two occasions for Africa Cup Club Championships and the facilities provided were below standard. "Now I have seen quality facilities, everything is fantastic and perfect and I believe we are going to have an exciting competition." Mr Dini Ahmed stated.

Even though the project is expected to be complete by the close of June, Mr Dini Ahmed said he believes in the capability of the LOC and the Ghana Hockey Association (GHA) to meet the deadline. "My friends at the GHA have the experience to meet the deadline so there is no cause for alarm". Mr Dini Ahmed stated. He however called on the GHA officials and the Committee to adopt the best maintenance practices for the facility.

Mr Dini Ahmed said he would discuss with the officials of GHA how best to utilise the facilities for the benefit of the entire nation. He commended the government of Ghana for supporting the GHA and the LOC in preparing towards the successful hosting of the event. Nii Nortey Duah, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports expressed appreciation to the Federation for supporting Ghana's bid to host the event.

He promised government will provide the needed support for the organization of the event.