Ghana’s The women's rugby league team, the Leopardess, has gained significant support before their three-game international test series against Nigeria in Lagos, following a visit from the Director General of the National Sports Authority, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, who provided words of motivation ahead of their departure,PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The contests, which offer world ranking points, will take place on October 4, 7, and 11. The initial event will be held at Rugby School Nigeria in Eko Atlantic City, with the series continuing in Alaro City for the subsequent matches.
While visiting, Ankrah reminded the players about the duty they hold as trailblazers for women's football in Ghana. He commended their dedication and encouraged them to stay focused and cohesive as they stand for the nation abroad.
"I have confidence in your ability and perseverance. I can tell this is a very young team, which truly shows the federation's future ambitions," Ankrah stated. He further mentioned that representing Ghana at this point is a significant responsibility but also a move towards development, urging the players to compete with honor and bring pride to the country.
His arrival energized the athletes, as the head of the NSA also emphasized the Organization's dedication to advancing women's sports and supporting the expansion of rugby league at the community level.
The Pantheress, positioned 24th globally, traveled with a team composed of players from local clubs and educational institutions.
The team is mainly composed of Accra Ladies, featuring captain Elizabeth Adongo and vice-captain Hilaria Wuaku, along with Millicent Njomaba, Jacqueline Ansah, Princess Avorkah, Gracelove Hammond, Fati Bhom, Ivy Benyah, Gifty Sowah, and Eunice Lawoe.
The Awutu Ladies include Celestine Kumah, Mariama Musah, Minawara Alhassan, and Henrietta Arhin, while the school representatives are Grace Nketiah of Pentecost SHS, Maria Tii Pegyine of St. Michaels SHS, Kesse Mary of Afigya Secondary Technical, and Christiana Ndewine of Aduman Secondary. Coaches Riddick Alibah and Julius Fiakpornu will be in charge of the team.
Nigeria enter the series as strong contenders, having remained undefeated against Ghana in their previous three encounters, and will view these matches as a preparation for the Women’s World Cup qualification campaign in Canada.
The Nigerian team's coach, Bolu Fagboran, stated that the series was important for developing unity and intensity before the qualification matches.
"The three weeks of preparation in Nigeria are extremely important. It will enable us to train at a high level, foster team unity, and make sure each player is prepared to compete internationally," he stated.
He stated that the fixtures are more than just practice games, referring to them as "a statement regarding the capabilities of African women in rugby league." According to him, competing against Ghana provides Nigeria with the appropriate challenge prior to encountering the top teams globally.
Assistant coach Luke Shearman, who is coming from Australia along with two Nigerian players based in Australia, shared the enthusiasm. He mentioned it was a privilege to be part of Nigeria's progress and emphasized the significance of advancing the sport across Africa.
"The skill present here is amazing, and I think Nigeria has the ability to astonish the global community," Shearman remarked.
The show is backed by Alaro City, a longstanding collaborator of Nigeria Rugby League, which is also developing a specialized field that will function as Nigeria's World Series training base.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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