Kurt Okraku Offers Update on GFA’s Inaugural Talent Identification Programme
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Edwin Simon Okraku, has informed Ghanaians that the first-ever talent identification was held in Bromley, England.
The GFA, the British High Commission in the United Kingdom, Coach Hene Club, and Prince Lamona held an impactful and interactive Parents Engagement Session at the Ghana High Commission in the United Kingdom, prompting the association to launch the inaugural edition of the Talent Identification Programme.
During the session, President Simeon-Okraku spoke passionately about the importance of foreign-born Ghanaian players seizing the opportunity to represent Ghana on the international stage, emphasising the immense pride, identity, and legacy associated with wearing the national colours.
“Today in the United Kingdom, 40 players of Ghanaian descent, born in the United Kingdom and currently playing in Category One academies, participated in the inaugural Talent Identification Programme organised by the Ghana Football Association.”
The president of GFA highlighted to the stakeholders that they have made an effort to make talent identification a reality.
Kurt identified the academies where the talents ply their trade, the age group that was assessed and the technical personalities that supervised the exercise.
“U-15 to U-20 players from top academies, including Chelsea FC, Everton FC, Manchester City FC and Arsenal FC, among others, were assessed by the GFA Technical Director, Prof. Mintah, FIFA Talent Coach, Stuart Mclaren, alongside coaches from Coach Hene Sporting Club, who closely monitored standout performers throughout the session in Bromley.”
He indicated the direction and plan for talent identification, especially extending their tentacles to category two and three academies, as well as other countries in Europe.
“The Ghana Football Association is expected to expand the programme to include Category Two and Three academies, as well as grassroots football across the United Kingdom and beyond in the coming months.”
