The University for Development Studies (UDS) Sports Advisory Committee, led by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Elliot Huruna Alhassan, paid a morale-boosting visit to the UDS football team during one of their rigorous training sessions on Thursday, July 31, 2025. The team is currently in intensive camp as they prepare to represent Ghana and Africa at the upcoming World Universities Football Tournament in China next month.

The visit took place at the university’s main training grounds, where the players were seen undergoing structured drills under the meticulous guidance of the Director of Sports, Mr. Ibrahim Tanko Shaibu, and his team of dedicated coaches. The training session focused on enhancing player agility, ball handling, dribbling, and penalty shootouts which are key tactical areas needed to boost the team’s performance on the international stage.

Addressing the players, Prof. Alhassan congratulated the team for exhibiting high levels of discipline and commitment in camp. “You are not just representing UDS,” he reminded them, “you are ambassadors of Ghana and the African continent. The flag you will carry is not only ours, but Africa’s. So rise to the task.”

The Pro Vice-Chancellor encouraged the players to be attentive to their coaches and maintain focus throughout their preparations. He made particular reference to the semi-final match at the 2024 GUSA Games in Cape Coast, in which UDS suffered a narrow defeat. “We all saw how a few lapses cost us a place in the final. Let that experience be your fuel to push harder this time,” he said. “Don’t be complacent. The competition ahead is fierce, but with determination and the right mindset, we can make history.”

Mr. Ibrahim Tanko Shaibu, Director of Sports, also expressed appreciation to the Committee for the visit, assuring them that the team was working tirelessly to fine-tune both individual skills and team cohesion. “We are focused and we are building a team that will not only compete, but also inspire,” he noted.

The Sports Advisory Committee’s visit forms part of its core mandate to provide strategic oversight and support to sports development across all campuses of the university. The committee advises university management on policy matters related to sports, supports capacity building for athletes and coaches, and ensures that UDS remains competitive in national and international university sports competitions.

The UDS team is expected to depart for China in early September, with high hopes of making a strong impact at the tournament.

Story by:
Abdul Hayi Moomen
UDS Media