By: Isaac Tetteh The Otumfuo Park in the Ashanti Region was alive with energy and talent as the second edition of the Rugby League Rising Stars tournament took center stage on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Featuring young athletes from six communities, the event showcased emerging rugby league stars across the Primary Boys, JHS Boys, and JHS Girls divisions. The tournament continues to solidify its reputation as a pivotal platform for grassroots sports development in Ghana, inspiring many young players and fans. In the Primary Boys Division, four schools competed fiercely for victory. Akrofrom D/A Primary narrowly edged out Akrowa D/A Primary with a 1-0 score, while Mowire D/A Primary defeated Aduamoa D/A Primary by the same margin to reach the final. The final match ended in a goalless draw, leading to a tense penalty shootout where Akrofrom emerged victorious with a 1-0 win. The JHS Girls Division saw six teams divided into two groups, with Mowire D/A JHS and Akrowa D/A JHS advancing to the final. The group stage was highly competitive, culminating in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw. Mowire clinched the title with a 1-0 victory in the shootout, further highlighting the growing popularity of girls’ rugby in Ghana. Similarly, the JHS Boys Division was highly competitive, with Akrofrom D/A JHS winning their second trophy of the day after a dramatic 4-3 victory in a penalty shootout against Kyerekrom D/A JHS. General Manager of the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG), Jafaru Awudu Mustapha, spoke passionately about the importance of early engagement in rugby. He emphasized that nurturing young talent from a young age is vital for the sport’s growth and sustainability in Ghana. “It’s essential that we engage with the youth early, helping them grasp the fundamentals of the game so we can nurture their growth and develop the sport from the ground up”; Jafaru Awudu Mustapha. Jafaru Awudu Mustapha The tournament was also praised by Mr. David Akomeah Asokwah, Director General of the Ghana Education Service for the Afigya Kwabre South District, who commended the Federation’s efforts in promoting sports and urged the students to stay committed to their sporting journey. “The Federation has brought this exciting sport to our doorstep, and as someone who has always been passionate about sports, we as a district have embraced it wholeheartedly. We believe in giving our young people the opportunity to play and learn something new. Something that can help them better themselves and build their personal portfolio in the future”; Mr. David Akomeah Asokwah. Mr. David Akomeah Asokwah The event was attended by dignitaries including government officials, RLFG staff, and community leaders, all of whom expressed their support and pride in Ghana’s youth development through sport. Participating schools from across the region showcased their skills and sportsmanship, reinforcing the tournament’s role as a vital platform for nurturing young talent and fostering community unity. The Rugby League Rising Stars tournament continues to grow as a leading initiative aimed at developing future sporting heroes in Ghana. Source link