The Union Ghana, a men's group of young and old professionals based at the University of Ghana campus, etched their name in history as the champions of the maiden University of Ghana Community Games (Football Gala), a thrilling event that brought together talented teams from the University of Ghana community.

The tournament, held at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, showcased remarkable skill, unity, and sportsmanship, drawing large crowds of enthusiastic supporters.

The University of Ghana Community Games (football Gala), which is an initiative of the University of Sports & Wellness Directorate and produced and marketed by RITE SPORTS, took place at University of Ghana Main Stadium on Saturday 16th November, 2024 and was supported by GT Bank and Warrior King Watches.

In attendance were top management members of University of Ghana including Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, the Vice Chancellor, Mrs. Emelia Agyei-Mensah, The Registrar, Professor Nii Ardey Cudjoe, Provost, College of Education, Professor Joseph Yaro, Provost, College of Humanities, Mrs. Lydia Anowa Nyarko-Danquah, Director of Academic Affairs and Dr. Yvonne Lamptey, Director- Human Resource and Organizational Development.

The tournament kicked off with eight (8) fiercely competitive teams divided into two groups. Group A teams were University of Ghana Enterprises Ltd (UGEL), The Union Ghana, College of Health Sciences and College of Basic & Applied Sciences while Group B had College of Humanities, University of Ghana Alumni Association, UG Central Administration and College of Education. The Union Ghana started strong beating UGEL 2-0 in their opening game and then defeated College of Health Sciences 4-1 topping their group with an unbeaten record and securing a final slot.

The final match saw Union Ghana square off against University of Ghana Alumni, a team that had dominated their side of the bracket. The game delivered drama and excitement ending 1-1. The Union Ghana struck first through a penalty opportunity, but University of Ghana Alumni Association also equalized through a penalty opportunity.

With the score tied at 1-1, the winner was decided through 5 penalty kicks with The Union Ghana winning by 4-3. The stadium erupted in celebration as the UG Alumni Association player shot the ball wide over the goalpost to seal victory for The Union Ghana.

The gala, organized to foster community engagement, was hailed as a resounding success. Dr. Austin Luguterah, Director of University of Ghana Sports & Wellness Directorate, praised the teams for their sportsmanship and commitment, while spectators lauded the thrilling matches and electrifying atmosphere.

The Union Ghana captain Richard Agala, who is also the Treasurer of GT Bank, expressed his joy after the match, saying: "This victory means so much to us. Its not just about the trophy; its about showing the strength of our community and the hard work weve put in. Were proud to represent The Union Ghana."

With the success of the inaugural event, the University of Ghana Sports Directorate is confident of an exciting league which commences on 1st February, 2025 promising even more excitement in the years to come. For now, Union Ghana basks in their well-deserved glory, the first champions of what promises to be a prestigious tournament.