'A purpose greater than sport': Ghana 9s promotes health initiatives

Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) wrapped up the celebrated 2024 Ghana Rugby League 9s tournament after an electrifying month of action in October.

Hosted every Sunday in October at the University of Ghana Rugby Field, this year’s tournament brought thrilling action, emerging talents, and a unique focus on community health that united fans and players alike. Across men’s, women’s, and youth divisions, RLFG put on a month-long showcase, capturing the true spirit of rugby league in Ghana.

Beyond being a thrilling sports event, the tournament spotlighted wellness initiatives, offering free breast screenings to spectators and rugby league participants. Through a partnership with Life Healthcare, RLFG transformed this year’s tournament into a holistic experience that blended competitive sports with health awareness.

Men’s Division: Nungua Tigers Rise to Victory

In a high-stakes showdown, Nungua Tigers seized the men’s title, triumphing through a challenging two-round robin format. In the final against defending champions, Skolars, Tigers clinched a close 13-10 victory, breaking Skolars' winning streak. Throughout the tournament, Tigers demonstrated resilience and tactical precision, led by standout performances from Gideon Klugey, who scored an impressive 11 tries, and Kofi Montchon, who dominated with 20 conversions. This victory firmly establishes Nungua Tigers as a new powerhouse in Ghana’s men’s rugby league 9s.

Women’s Division: Accra Panthers Defend Their Title

The women’s division saw Accra Panthers extend their legacy, successfully defending their championship title. Competing in a round-robin series against Accra Majestics, Bulls, and Nungua Tigers, Panthers faced off with Nungua Tigers in a hard-fought final, emerging victorious with a 12-0 score. Star players Margaret Tuffour (Accra Panthers) and Ivy Benyah (Nungua Tigers) tied with five tries each, with Benyah also leading in conversions by the end of the tournament. Accra Panthers’ resilience and skill once again established them as the team to beat in women’s rugby league 9s in Ghana.

Youth Division: Panthers Showcase the Future of Rugby League

In the youth division, the tournament showcased emerging talent and promising young players. Accra Panthers’ youth team, in their first rugby league 9s appearance, dominated the field with a 12-0 win over Accra Majestics in the final. This inaugural victory adds to Accra Panthers’ legacy and reflects RLFG’s commitment to youth development. Standout youth players Kofi Adusei and Jamal Yussif scored three tries each during the tournament, highlighting the bright future of rugby league in Ghana.

A Unique Blend of Sports and Health

RLFG’s collaboration with Life Healthcare made this year’s tournament not only a competitive event but also a community-focused health initiative. Free breast screenings were provided, making health services accessible to fans and players alike. This emphasis on community wellness reinforced RLFG’s commitment to using rugby league as a force for positive impact

“This tournament represents the strength of our players and the power of our community,” said Riddick Alibah, RLFG’s regional manager. “We’re thrilled to blend rugby league with health initiatives, bringing our fans and players together for a purpose greater than sport.” 

With 45 matches played and thousands of fans in attendance, the 2024 Ghana Rugby League 9s tournament leaves an enduring legacy. RLFG looks to the future with a focus on expanding rugby league and promoting community health across Ghana.

The event was proudly supported by Polytank, MX24Sports, Ghanaian Times, Jibu, Firm Foods, First Love Therapeutic Massage, Pass Therapy and Wellness Center, Philans Rehab Services, Salford Red Devils, Regardless, Radical, Life Healthcare Center, and Bariki Enterprise.