Team Sports Demand More — GOC president Richard Akpokavie, Esq Rallies Support at Ghana Rugby AGM

At the just-ended Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Annual General Meeting held at the picturesque Labadi Beach Hotel, Ghana Olympic Committee President Richard Akpokavie, Esq delivered a heartfelt address that struck a chord with stakeholders, emphasizing the financial realities of team sports and the urgent need for sustained support.

Speaking to delegates, clubs, and administrators, Akpokavie highlighted the stark contrast between individual and team disciplines, drawing from his experience within the Olympic movement. According to him, while sports such as boxing and table tennis may require the support of just one athlete at a time, rugby—particularly the sevens format—demands far greater investment.

“I know the cost of team sports,” he noted. “It’s very different when you are supporting table tennis or boxing—you can take one athlete. But for sevens, you are looking at 20 to 25 people, including technical officers. Team sports are a very expensive endeavor.”

His remarks underscored the logistical and financial burdens federations face, especially in developing sporting nations like Ghana, where resources are often limited but ambitions remain high.

Akpokavie reserved special praise for Herbert Mensah, whose consistent personal investment and advocacy have been instrumental in the growth of rugby both in Ghana and across the continent. He urged the rugby fraternity to show appreciation and continue leveraging such leadership for the sport’s advancement.

“Anyone who puts his own personal resources into supporting team sports deserves our gratitude,” he said. “We thank Herbert Mensah for what he has done for Ghana Rugby and continues to do for African rugby.”

The Olympic Committee President also encouraged the GRFU to keep engaging Mensah and his network, noting that broader connections could unlock additional opportunities for funding and development.

In the same breath, he acknowledged the contributions of Robin Herbert, recognizing the collective effort required to elevate the sport locally.

The AGM itself marked another important step in Ghana Rugby’s ongoing restructuring and growth agenda, bringing together key stakeholders committed to expanding the game’s footprint nationwide.

Akpokavie’s message was clear: while passion fuels sport, sustainable success—especially in team disciplines like rugby—depends heavily on strategic investment, collaboration, and unwavering support from both individuals and institutions.