The University for Development Studies (UDS) Football Team has paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Tolon, Naa (Rtd) Major Sulemana Abubakari, to formally inform him of their upcoming trip to China to represent Africa at the prestigious World Universities Football Tournament scheduled for September 2025.

The visit, which also marked the beginning of the team’s high-performance training at the Tolon Astro Turf, was met with warm hospitality, fervent prayers, and profound words of encouragement from the chief and his elders.

Addressing the team, Naa Sulemana Abubakari commended UDS for flying high the flag of the Northern region and the entire continent. “You are not just playing for yourselves or your university,” he said. “You are carrying the hopes of Tolon, of Northern Ghana, of our country, and of Africa. Be disciplined, be hardworking, and above all, play with your hearts.”

The Chief further assured the team of his unflinching support, promising to mobilize resources and spiritual backing to see the team succeed on the world stage. “We shall organize Qur’anic recitations for divine favor and protection throughout your journey,” he declared.

In a show of goodwill, Naa Sulemana Abubakari, through his linguist, presented the team with assorted drinks at the training grounds, a gesture the players and officials received with gratitude and renewed motivation.

Team officials expressed appreciation to the Chief and his elders for the warm reception and spiritual fortification. “This is more than a courtesy visit,” said Mr. Shaibu Tanko Ibrahim, Director of the UDS Sports Directorate. “It is a powerful reminder that we are not alone—that the community stands with us.”

The UDS Football Team is expected to depart for China in early September, ahead of the tournament which brings together top university teams from across the world. Their training at the well-equipped Tolon Astro Turf is part of an intensive preparation regime aimed at sharpening the team’s skills and boosting their morale.

“This training camp in Tolon is not just strategic, it is symbolic,” said team captain Ibrahim Fuseini. “We are tapping into the strength and blessings of our people as we prepare to face the world.”

As the team continues its build-up to the global competition, the spiritual and cultural support from Tolon is already shaping up to be a vital part of their journey, fueling dreams of glory not just for UDS, but for all of Africa.

Story by: Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)