Global Recognition for Ghana’s Tweneboah Koduah as IBSA Goalball Referees Recertify in Lithuania

The international goalball community has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence and inclusivity, as referees from across the globe successfully completed their recertification at the IBSA Goalball Referees Clinic held during this year’s International Trakai Goalball Tournament in Lithuania.

The clinic, organized under the auspices of the International Blind Sports Federation (IBSA), brought together elite officials dedicated to upholding the highest standards of the sport. The successful recertification of all participating referees marks a significant milestone, reinforcing the professionalism and consistency required in officiating goalball at the international level.

Among the distinguished officials was Ghana’s very own Tweneboah Koduah, whose participation and successful recertification serve as a proud moment for Ghanaian sport. His presence at such a high-level international program highlights Ghana’s growing footprint in para-sports and underscores the country’s commitment to developing technical expertise in disciplines like goalball.

The clinic was conducted by senior course conductor Alexander Knecht of Germany, whose guidance ensured that referees were thoroughly assessed and updated on the latest rules, interpretations, and officiating techniques. The program emphasized accuracy, consistency, and the evolving dynamics of the game, equipping referees with the tools needed to officiate at elite competitions.

Joining Tweneboah Koduah, in the recertification process were a diverse group of international referees, including Warrick Jackes (Australia), Juank Torres (Colombia), Vaida Pokvytyte (Lithuania), Frederic Patenaud (Canada), Tereza Kounovska (Czech Republic), Tuula-Anneli Toivola (Finland), Koosje van Zweeden (The Netherlands), and Juliane Russo (Brazil). Their collective success reflects the global unity and shared standards within the goalball community.

Although not participants in the clinic, Romualdas Vaitiekus and Vilma Venckutonyte played key roles as part of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), ensuring the smooth running of both the tournament and the training program.

The International Trakai Goalball Tournament continues to serve as a vital platform not only for athletes but also for officials, fostering development, exchange of knowledge, and international cooperation. The recertification clinic, held alongside the competition, highlights the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in maintaining the integrity of the sport.

For Ghana, Tweneboah Koduah’s achievement stands as an inspiration to aspiring referees and sports officials. It signals a positive trajectory for the country in the global para-sports arena and reinforces the message that Ghanaian expertise is making meaningful strides on the international stage.

Photo credit: Henriikka Toivola