Cape Coast, December 8, 2025 — A monumental chapter in Ghanaian disability sports was written in Cape Coast as the 2025 GBSA Goalball National Championships concluded, etching its name in history as the first edition to achieve near-universal regional participation. While the Oti Region’s participation was regrettably hindered, the championship proudly welcomed an unprecedented 15 of Ghana’s 16 regions, a testament to the burgeoning growth and national commitment to Goalball.
Held from December 4th to 7th at the state-of-the-art Indoor Sports Complex within the University of Cape Coast’s Sports Section, this four-day spectacle of skill, determination, and fierce competition brought together the nation’s most elite Goalball athletes. Their displays of prowess captivated audiences and underscored the sport’s vibrant present and promising future.
MEN’S DIVISION: EASTERN REGION EARNS GLORIOUS NATIONAL TITLE
The men’s division witnessed a robust competition involving fifteen regions, meticulously organized into four pools: one of three teams and three comprising four teams each. To accommodate the demanding schedule, only the victorious teams from each group advanced directly to the semi-final stage, ensuring every group match was a crucial battle for progression.
The formidable group winners who earned their shot at glory were:
• Group A: Upper West Region
• Group B: Ahafo Region
• Group C: Upper East Region
• Group D: Eastern Region
The semi-final matchups were electrifying contests:
•The resilient Eastern Region demonstrated exceptional skill by defeating the Upper West Region.
• The determined Upper East Region secured their spot in the final by overcoming Ahafo Region.
In the fiercely contested Bronze Match, the Upper West Region emerged victorious against Ahafo Region, securing third place. The Grand Final saw the Eastern Region clinch the ultimate prize, triumphing over a valiant Upper East Region to be crowned the undisputed 2025 Men’s National Champions. John Arthur of the Eastern Region was deservedly recognized as the outstanding Best Male Player for his exceptional contributions.
WOMEN’S DIVISION: VOLTA REGION CLAIMS TRIUMPHANT VICTORY
The women’s division showcased the nation’s incredible female Goalball talent, with 11 regions competing. These teams were strategically divided into two groups: one of five teams and another of six, with the top two finishers from each group advancing to the decisive semi-final rounds.
The intense semi-final encounters saw Ashanti Region exhibiting remarkable fortitude to defeat Bono East Region and Volta Region demonstrating superior skill and coordination to overcome Western North Region.
The Bronze Match was a hard-fought contest where the Western North Region emerged victorious against Bono East Region, securing the third-place position. The Grand Final was a thrilling display of athleticism and strategy, with the Volta Region ultimately sealing their victory against a strong Ashanti Region to lift the 2025 Women’s Championship trophy. Peace Awadzi of the Volta Region was rightfully celebrated as the inspirational Best Female Player for her stellar performances.
SPONSORSHIP AND UNWAVERING SUPPORT: THE BEDROCK OF SUCCESS
The extraordinary success and smooth execution of this historic championship were unequivocally made possible through the generous and vital backing of our primary sponsor, Goldbod Ghana. Their significant commitment was further amplified by the invaluable support of:
• Bank of Ghana
• Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority
• Mannye and Mantse Clothing
• Nkrabea Cultural Troupe
• National Council on Persons with Disability (NCPD)
• Numerous dedicated individual donors
These collective contributions were instrumental in ensuring seamless organization, providing comprehensive athlete welfare, and fostering a vibrant, celebratory tournament atmosphere that empowered every participant.
FOSTERING TALENT AND WIDESPREAD DEVELOPMENT
Beyond crowning champions, this event served as a crucial platform for identifying and nurturing emerging national talent. Several promising young athletes demonstrated exceptional potential, earning them a place on the radar for future national team considerations. To further its mission of promoting Goalball development nationwide, the GBSA facilitated the distribution of much-needed Goalball balls to regions that previously lacked adequate equipment, thereby ensuring broader and more equitable access to training resources for aspiring athletes across the country.
Outstanding performers were further recognized and motivated with the presentation of brand-new footwear, celebrating their dedication and exceptional skill.
