The second edition of the BPA Talent Development Football competition concluded after a thrilling week of matches among 16 participating communities on September 10th. Jama’s Pambo Stars emerged as overall champions. The five individual standout performers, dubbed the ‘Fantastic Five,’ were also announced. These exceptional players have earned the opportunity to join the prestigious John Paintsil Football Academy for a year.
The event commenced on September 1st, with Hon. Samuel Kofi Dzamesi, CEO of Bui Power Authority, inaugurating the tournament. This collaborative effort between the John Paintsil Football Academy and BPA aims to unearth football talent within the Bui enclave and its surrounding communities. Distinguished guests, including the Paramount Chief of the Jama Traditional Area, Nnaa Professor Langjagor Karley II, Hon. Emmanuel Akone, the Banda District Executive, and former Black Stars player John Paintsil, attended the ceremony. Hon. Dzamesi emphasized that, endeavors such as this shows BPA’s commitment to community development around the Bui Generating Station.
The closing ceremony featured an exciting final match between Jama and Banda Boase, with Jama winning 3-0. An exhibition game followed, featuring an Ex-Black Stars team and All-Star players selected by John Paintsil, creating a festive atmosphere.
In his closing remarks, John Paintsil expressed gratitude to BPA and urged players to dream big and embrace attributes like hard work, respect, and perseverance in their football careers. He also commended the CEO for his visionary leadership. He gave gave his profound thanks to the chiefs and people of the enclave communities.
The ‘Fantastic Five’ selected from the Talent Development Program’s second phase are:
Sarfo Wonder – Banda Boase
Abonjuah Ernest – Jama
Akori Kelvin – Jama
Torkornu Obed – Bui
Nyuah Forster – Kabrono
They will be formally introduced to the CEO at an upcoming ceremony.