Royal Ladies’ goalkeeping sensation Matilda eyes national glory

Matilda Addison cemented her place among Africa’s finest goalkeepers as she played a crucial role in GRA Royal Ladies’ record-breaking fifth Africa Club Champions Cup (ACCC) title in Ismailia, Egypt.

But for the 24-year-old shot-stopper, this is just the beginning of what she hopes will be a remarkable career.

Appearing in only her second continental club tournament — but her first as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper — Matilda was a rock between the posts, featuring in all five matches and conceding just two goals. 

Her commanding presence at the back provided the foundation for the Royal Ladies' dominant campaign, which saw them score a staggering 27 goals en route to reclaiming their status as Africa’s finest.

Her rock-solid performances earned her the Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament award, a recognition she admits came as a surprise.

"I was a bit surprised when I was named the best goalkeeper of the tournament—I honestly didn’t expect it," she told the Graphic Sports.

"But it’s a well-deserved achievement for my hard work, and I’m really proud of it."

Road to glory

Matilda’s rise to prominence is no accident. A natural athlete, she competed in football, handball and athletics—including the 200m, 400m, shot put, and discus—before fully committing to hockey.

Her hockey journey began at Ebenezer Senior High School (SHS) in Dansoman, Accra, where she played from 2016 to 2019.

After SHS, she joined Real Ambassadors Hockey Academy (2018–2021) before enjoying a brief spell with the Ghana Police hockey team. But it was in March 2023, when she joined GRA Royal Ladies, that she found the perfect platform to showcase her talent, winning back-to-back ACCC titles.

A key influence on her success has been her experienced teammate, Elizabeth Opoku, whose mentorship has helped shape Addison’s career.

"I owe a big thank you to my teammates, especially Elizabeth Opoku. The way she encourages me—on and off the field—has been incredible. I’m so grateful for her support," she said.

Aiming for big stage

Having conquered the club scene, Matilda is now setting her sights on the national team, Black Sticks, with ambitions of competing on the global stage.

"My next target is to maintain my number one status, earn a call-up to the national team, and play at the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics," she revealed.

Beyond her ambitions, she also had words of encouragement for young hockey players.

"I want to advise young hockey players to stay determined, work hard and always seek encouragement. Consistent training and the right support will push you to where you want to be," she added.

With two consecutive continental club titles, a best goalkeeper award, and an unrelenting drive for success, Matilda looks poised to continue her rise to becoming one of Ghana’s greatest hockey exports—and the Black Sticks could soon have a new safe pair of hands in goal.