“Nurturing Talent More Important Than Winning”- Ghana U-15 Girls Coach

Ghana U-15 Girls head coach Joyce Boatey-Agyei has emphasized the importance of talent development over results, even as his side continues their impressive run at the ongoing CAF African Schools Football Championship in Accra.

Speaking after Ghana’s qualification to the semi-finals on the opening day of the tournament with a flawless group-stage record, the coach praised his young charges but underscored the long-term value of guiding and nurturing future stars over the short-term gratification of winning.

“Sometimes the crowd and stage can have a positive or negative effect on a player, depending on their personality. So, it is important that we play our role in guiding, protecting and encouraging them at this level,” Boatey-Agyei told the media.

“The talent is there, and it is unquestionable. But without guidance, it will not flourish. Yes, it is important to win, and we are encouraged by this result, but equally important is the protection and nurturing of our talent.”

This is Ghana’s debut appearance at the continental finals, and the tournament is being held at the University of Ghana Stadium to much fanfare from home supporters. Despite the pressure of hosting, the team has handled their campaign with composure.

Coach Boatey-Agyei also shared insight into the team’s preparation and how they manage tournament nerves.

“We reminded them of the training we took them through,” she explained. “We made them understand that even though they are playing against a team from a different country, they are no different to teams that we’ve faced in our preparations. That is why sometimes the stage has an effect on their performance, which is why we need to guide them at this level of the game.”

Ghana will take on South Africa in the semi-finals today.