Football, often hailed as a universal language, brings communities together, fostering camaraderie and unearthing raw talent. In a bid to tap into this potential, Yaw Collins Suglo, Chairman of the Asunafo North Football Association, orchestrated a momentous event on the 8th and 9th of June 2024.
The objective was clear: to spotlight budding football stars within the Asunafo North District and the wider Ahafo Region.
The tournament not only showcased the passion for the sport but also attracted the attention of esteemed personalities, including Dr. Charles Osei Anto, Chairman of the Brong/Ahafo F.A., Alhaji Takrodi, Deputy Chief Imam of Ahafo Region, Hon. Evans Opoku Bobie, Deputy Sports Minister and Member of Parliament for Asunafo North, and numerous other dignitaries.
Six teams, each brimming with youthful vigour and aspiration, graced the tournament with their presence: Akrodie Nokia Youth, Biazor Soccer Academy, Mim Young Kotoko, Mim Young Stars, My Stars FC, and King Solomon. The age categories spanned from U-13, U-15 and U-17, providing a platform for players to demonstrate their skills and compete at their respective levels.
Individual excellence was duly recognized, with notable awards bestowed upon outstanding players. Boakye Ramzy of Nokia Boys claimed the title of Best Player for the U-13 category, while Agyapong Richard of My Stars emerged as the U-17 Best Player. Akandi Abraham of My Stars FC showcased exceptional goalkeeping prowess, earning the title of Overall Goalkeeper.
The coveted Goal King accolade was clinched by Adabo Gideon of Kasapin F/C, showcasing his scoring prowess with an impressive tally of two goals. Adu Kenneth of King Solomon was hailed as the Best Player for the U-15 category, underscoring his remarkable talent on the field.
In a display of sheer determination and skill, teams vied for supremacy in their respective age groups. Biazor Soccer Academy and Akrodie Nokia Boys emerged as the runners-up in the U-13 and U-15 categories, respectively, while Kassapin F/C secured the runner-up position in the U-17 league. Mim Youth, Biazor, and King Solomon claimed third-place honours in the U-13, U-15, and U-17 categories, respectively.
Ultimately, champions were crowned, heralding a new era of footballing prowess in the region. Akrodie Nokia Boys triumphed in the U-13 category, while King Solomon asserted their dominance in the U-15 league. Mim Youth Stars defied the odds to clinch the coveted title in the fiercely contested U-17 league, signalling their emergence as a force to be reckoned with in local football circles.
Beyond the exhilarating matches, the tournament served as a platform to honour individuals who have contributed tirelessly to the development of sports in the Asunafo North District. Their unwavering commitment and dedication were duly acknowledged, underscoring the collaborative efforts required to nurture sporting talent and foster community cohesion.
The Ahafoman School Park in Goaso provided the perfect backdrop for this spectacle of talent and passion, underscoring the importance of investing in sporting infrastructure to facilitate the growth of grassroots football.
In summary, the Asunafo North Municipal F.A. Colts League proved to be a resounding success, encapsulating the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and talent discovery. As the final whistle blew and champions were crowned, the echoes of cheers reverberated through the community, serving as a testament to the enduring power of football to unite and inspire.