Footy Legends Ghana, last week, honoured retired footballers for their tireless dedication to football over the years.
The ceremony on April 11 was the second edition of the initiative following the maiden one in 2023.
The heartfelt ceremony was held at Mantse Agbonaa in Jamestown, Accra, bringing together ex-footballers.
This year's event carried the theme, "Honoring the Fathers" which was crowned with a football game between Ashiedu Keteke Old Stars and Footy Legends GH XI.
The match, which ended in a 2-2 draw at the Mantse Agbonaa Park, provided a fitting showcase of skill and camaraderie, underscoring the enduring passion for the sport among both retired and active players.
Aside the football game, the organisers also provided crucial support for the well-being of the former players. Central to the event was a donation drive that included the provision of various groceries, offering practical support for the retired footballers' daily needs.
Additionally, free prostate screenings and medication were provided, addressing important health concerns among this esteemed group. They were also presented with medals of honour.
Mohammed Polo, a revered figure in Ghanaian football, used the occasion to highlight the importance of prioritizing the healthcare needs of retired footballers. He urged authorities to recognise and leverage the wealth of knowledge and experience these veterans possess, emphasizing their ongoing value to the sport and the country.
Polo also commended the organisers of the event and prayed the relevant authorities to take a cue and push this initiative to the highest limit.
Alfred Nortey, the convener of Footy Legends GH, emphasized the need for Corporate Ghana to actively support initiatives like these, noting that their backing could significantly enhance the quality of life for retired footballers and recognize their enduring impact on Ghanaian football.
He mentioned that their vision is to create a fund that would cater for the healthcare needs of these retired footballers.
He also explained the rationale behind the initiative.
"You realise our retired footballers are not in good health conditions. Our aim for putting this together is to ensure that we cater for their well-being," he said.
We started last year when we held it for 30 of them. This year, we scaled it to 60. Additionally, we did free prostrate screening and free medication to ensure that we cater for their complete well-being."
Speaking on behalf of the ex-footballers, Frank Ocquaye Nortey, who played for Great Olympics thanked the organisers for their thoughtfulness.
"We thank Footy Legends GH for extending their support to us as retired footballers. They came in and made everything successful," he added.
The success of the event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of several organizations, including Airport View Hotel, Complete Farmer, Cliff J Enterprise, Mega Life Sciences, YIM Studios, Spiffy Clothing, and a network of dedicated professionals.
As Footy Legends GH continues its mission, it serves as a beacon of gratitude and support for retired footballers, highlighting their indelible mark on the sport and inspiring future generations of athletes.
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