The Dr. Grace Community League (GCL) has engaged more than 500 young people from 24 communities across the Essikado-Ketan Constituency in a three-month football competition aimed at promoting youth development and talent discovery.
Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan and organiser of the Community League, described the initiative as more than just a football competition, saying it was designed to promote youth development, foster community engagement, and uncover sporting talent.
According to her, participating athletes competed in structured matches officiated by professional referees and played before large crowds, providing an organised platform for young footballers to showcase their abilities.
She said the initiative has created pathways for young footballers in Essikado-Ketan to gain exposure and pursue careers in the sport at both national and international levels.
“This year’s edition marked a significant advancement: licensed football agents and professional scouts were in full attendance to identify and assess talent. As a result, young players from Essikado-Ketan now have direct access to professional evaluations, trials, and pathways to contracts, turning local potential into national and international opportunity,” she said.
The lawmaker also noted that the competition strengthened social cohesion by bringing together communities from across the constituency under a common platform.
She stressed that the league aligns with broader efforts to use sports as a tool for youth empowerment and community development.
The league brought together teams from communities including Agric, Essipon, Benyakrom, Nchaban Nkwanta, Bakado, Fijai, Diabene, Essikado, Ketan, Mpintsin and Kojokrom.
A major highlight of this year’s competition was the presence of licensed football agents and professional scouts, who attended matches to identify promising talents for potential trials and professional opportunities.
The winning team received a trophy, while the first runner-up was awarded GH¢5,000, and the second runner-up received GH¢3,000.
Beyond football, the league was credited with helping to reduce youth idleness while promoting discipline, teamwork and responsibility among participants.
