Football enthusiasts in the Ho Municipality have warned the Volta Regional office of the National Sports Authority (NSA) against allowing non-sporting activities on the pitch of the Ho Sports Stadium.
They said they would resist any attempt to hire out the stadium to entertainment or religious groups.
The warning was issued by Martin Amemevor, a leading supporter of Ho Home Stars FC, at the final of the Asogli Yam Festival Soccer Tournament. The one-month tournament involved 10 communities under the Asogli State and was played at the Ho Sports Stadium.
Mr. Amemevor said the stadium is meant for football and athletics only.
He recalled how youth pressure forced the NSA to move a Shatta Wale concert from the Ho Sports Stadium to the Youth Resource Centre at Adaklu.
The youth accused NSA managers of inconsistency. They alleged that the stadium has been rented out for crusades and other church programmes, especially during Christmas and Easter, contributing to the poor state of the pitch.
Mr. Amemevor said youth groups plan to deploy members to guard the stadium to prevent activities that damage the pitch.
“We will not relent in our efforts to protect and safeguard the interest of the youth,” he said.
He commended Bright Senyo and his partners for organising the tournament and pledged the youth’s support for initiatives that develop football in the region.
Tournament Ends
Hliha beat Ahoe 2-1 in the final to win the Asogli Yam Festival Tournament. Both teams are from Ho.
Hliha took home a trophy, jerseys, gold medals and GH¢3,000. Ahoe received jerseys, silver medals and GH¢2,000.
Akoefe beat Takla 2-1 to place third. Akoefe received jerseys, medals and GH¢1,000. Takla received bibs.
Gabriel Asante was named Best Player. Courage Sape won the Goal King award, and Eric Badzreme was named Best Goalkeeper.
Bright Senyo, Founder of the Bright Senyo Dey Foundation, praised the 10 teams for their discipline. He said their conduct had encouraged him to honour his pledge to sponsor the community tournament for five years.
He said the tournament aims to keep the youth active and promote unity.
Mr. Senyo backed calls to stop using the stadium for concerts and crusades. He said the facility should be preserved for sports.
Apostle Darius Akpene of the Foundation commended the referees for their firm officiating, which he said ensured a peaceful tournament. He said some players discovered at the tournament are good enough for the Premier League.
Patrick Tsyawo, Sports Development Officer of the Foundation, praised Mr. Senyo for single-handedly funding the competition. He said the youth enjoyed a month of entertaining football that will be remembered as part of the Yam Festival celebrations.
By Rober Abilba
