Adopt Initiatives To Market and Promote Local Clubs In Schools – Sports Journalist Tabi Moses Calls On Football Authorities
I had the privilege of attending an Old Students’ football Gala at my alma mater, Nsutem Senior High School. The event was exceptionally well-organized, featuring skilled participants and fostering a vibrant atmosphere. Overall, it provided an enjoyable experience for all attendees.
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One moment struck me emotionally and left me completely shattered when I saw nearly all the teams, represented by various houses, wearing jerseys from foreign football clubs.
In my interactions with some of the students, it appears that they have all prioritized foreign-based clubs, except one female student who was bold enough to mention her support for Kumasi-based Asante Kotoko.
According to them, they are fond of the foreign clubs because their apparel is easily accessible, and games are readily available to watch online and on pay-to-watch Television stations.
They presented that foreign clubs have adopted good and strong branding and promotion, which makes their clubs attractive to belong.
I found it devastating that even at a young age, these students have already developed a love for foreign clubs and know less than nothing about their local clubs.
I have observed a notable trend among supporters attending our local matches: a significant number of them don jerseys representing foreign clubs. This phenomenon suggests that our local teams are currently facing challenges in branding and promotion. Consequently, this situation appears to have contributed to a decline in support for these teams.
It is evident that the football framework, spanning from Colts football to Premiership clubs, experiences a deficiency in popularity and support among local sports enthusiasts. This situation can be attributed to insufficient promotional efforts and ineffective brand positioning..
Moving forward, I propose that the National Sporting Authority and club owners make a concerted effort to launch initiatives prioritizing support for local clubs, with the Ghanaian school being a primary target.
In this case, the emerging generation of football enthusiasts will cultivate an interest in both local clubs and the Ghanaian Premier League.
These initiatives may encompass football education, the appointment of local Club Ambassadors to various primary and secondary schools, competitions for jersey design, and outreach programs by the Club.
Collaboration between the Sports and Recreation Ministry, the Ghana Football Association, and club owners in undertaking these initiatives can help revive and build passion in young football enthusiasts, encouraging them to prioritize local clubs, which will also boost revenue and sponsorship opportunities.
– Article written by Tabi Moses (Champion TM)
