Ghana’s Women’s National Rugby League Team is gearing up for a historic senior women’s series against Nigeria, to secure world ranking points. The two nations will face off in two matches at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos on November 3 and 5. A return fixture is scheduled at the University of Ghana’s Ajax Park in Legon, Accra, on December 9.
Juliana Storey, the President of Rugby League Federation Ghana, expressed the importance of this game, stating, “These fixtures align seamlessly with our strategic vision and the relentless efforts of the RLFG in fostering the growth of women’s rugby league in our nation. We are confident that the selected players will epitomize our aspirations and bring glory to our nation.”
As the Federation concludes its inaugural women’s 13s championship, 26 players have been selected from three clubs to form the training squad for the match against Nigeria in November. The selected players are:
Skolars: Nadia Enyan, Joyce Sika, Bernice Padikie Awohteye, Mardiyatu Ibrahim, Eunice Awuni, Adiza Mohammed Bogobiri, Millicent Nborti Njomaba, Marceline Ashie, Eunice Lawoe, and Hammond Grace Adjoa.
Nungua Tigers: Ivy Benyah, Rosemary Sewornu, Angela Yakubu, Estelle Haizel, Ellandy Ndifreke Attipoe, Shamsiya Tahiru, Sheila Tetteh, Belinda Ayele, and Theresa Sika Ahoentsu.
Accra Panthers: Mary Obeng, Hilaria Wuaku, Fauziya Nurudeen Larry, Jennifer Teiko Moncar, Bhon Fati, Magaret Tuffour, Cynthia Anafo Anyokama.
Ghana women’s head coach, Jafaru Mustapha, explained the selection process, saying, “In our role as the coaching staff, we are engaged in a meticulous evaluation of every player within our league to identify the top individuals who will proudly represent our country in the forthcoming matches against Nigeria. Drawing from the impressive performances we’ve witnessed in the championship, we are thus filled with immense optimism.”
In other developments, Rosemary Sewornu has been appointed first-ever captain of the Women’s Rugby League team. She expressed her appreciation saying, “I’m honored to lead Ghana’s women’s rugby league team. This opportunity means the world to me. As captain, I’ll lead with dedication and respect, aiming for victory graciously. Thanks to the Rugby League Federation Ghana for trusting me. I pledge to make my nation proud.”
In the wake of all these developments, the RLFG is actively seeking sponsorship and donations to make this historic event a reality.