Logistical issues cause Div One deadline extension

The Division One League Board's logistical problems continue, with the latest being an extension of the deadline for registration. Clubs have an extra ten working days to properly go through the Fifa- required procedures.

The Ghana Football Association decided on the extension after meeting to discuss matters arising for the quick start of the league. Originally scheduled to end today, the deadline was moved due to the new Fifa regulations introduced to safeguard the health of players. The world soccer governing body has made it mandatory that cardiothoracic scans and tests for the players' vital organs be done.

However, the realistic challenges associated with getting these done have made the completion of registration difficult for the division's 48 clubs. Registration now ends on December 7, 2011.

Real-life problems

Unlike the sixteen teams of the Ghana Premier Leagie, the Division One's forty-eight sides are largely based outside the major cities of the country. The tests required by Fifa are also only accessible in Accra and Kumasi, meaning that for most of these teams distance is a major challenge. And then there is the cost factor. SuperSport.com found that a basic cardio scan for each player costs as much as GHS 500 at some places.

The procedures required by Fifa cannot be circumvented as all primary data for players will not be approved in Zurich unless every detail is filled. With all the 48 clubs already sending their primary information, the Ghana FA is under pressure to provide the health information, otherwise future transfers and business involving these players will be compromised.

The new date for the kickoff of the new Division One League season will be announced in due course.

cardio, vitals,

costs a lot

kumasi, accra, been difficult for them,

transfers, registration have been done electronically.

48 clubs.