Minister applauds GRA Royal Ladies’ historic hockey triumph

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has joined the chorus of praise for the all-conquering GRA Royal Ladies hockey team after welcoming them to his office in Accra on Wednesday.

The triumphant squad, led by a delegation from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Ghana Hockey Association (GHA), proudly presented the prestigious Africa Cup for Club Champions (ACCC) trophy they clinched in dominant fashion in Ismailia, Egypt, earlier this month.

Added to the celebratory atmosphere were individual award winners Vivian Narkuor, the tournament’s top scorer and MVP, and Matilda Addison, who was named the best goalkeeper.

The team also showcased their Female Club of the Year award from the recent SWAG Awards in January, further underlining their incredible achievements.

Though Mr Adams was yet to assume office as Sports Minister during the Royal Ladies’ title-winning campaign from January 30 to February 10, he had sent the team a goodwill message ahead of their final against Egyptian side Smouha. 

According to GHA Vice-President Elizabeth King, the message was relayed to the players and served as a major source of inspiration in their victorious quest.

Madam King, who was a coordinator at the continental championship in Egypt, also presented a special souvenir from the African Hockey Federation (AHF) to the minister, describing it as a symbolic gift to "usher you into office for this show of interest and support for Royal Ladies and hockey."

GRA’s impact on hockey

In his address, the minister lauded the Royal Ladies for their heroics, attributing their success to efficient management by the GRA Sports Unit.

He urged other sports federations to take a cue from GRA’s structured approach to talent development and apply similar strategies across different disciplines for the ultimate benefit of Ghanaian sports.

“GRA must be highly commended for scouting, developing, and nurturing these players to this all-conquering level. In the midst of so many challenges, you have given us something to smile about,” the Minister remarked.

He also acknowledged the GRA’s consistent support for hockey, enabling the Royal Ladies to compete both locally and on the continental stage despite financial constraints.

Tax collection to trophy collection

Mr Adams took a light-hearted approach in commending the GRA’s commitment to sports, noting that while many associate the organisation with tax collection, they have also mastered the art of collecting silverware.

“People often feel uneasy when they hear about GRA because of taxes,” he quipped. “But you’ve shown that you don’t just collect coins and revenue—you also go to the field and collect trophies! You have done exceptionally well.”

Encouraging businesses and individuals to pay their taxes promptly, he linked revenue collection to sports development, emphasising that increased tax compliance would enable the government to invest in sports infrastructure and support athletes.

The minister also praised the Royal Ladies for their team unity and resilience, recalling how he personally witnessed their camaraderie at the 49th SWAG Awards, where team captain Elizabeth Opoku was named Ghana’s Hockey Player of the Year.

“The strength and tenacity you have shown by winning back-to-back continental titles is remarkable. When one of you was called up to receive an award, the way the entire team stood together in support showed that you are truly a team,” he observed.

Assuring the team of continued governmental and national support, he urged them to maintain their team spirit and dedication, promising that even greater achievements lay ahead.

“The government and the people of Ghana deeply appreciate your efforts. Keep up the unity and determination, and bigger successes will follow,” he encouraged.