Ghana, Nigeria battle in Binatone Skate soccer tourney

The finals of the first ever Skate soccer competition targeted at physically challenged persons in Nigeria and Ghana will take place at the Independence Stadium in Accra, Ghana on Sunday, March 19.

The competition which is being sponsored by Binatone Group, a household electronic appliances manufacturer as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility had earlier taken place at Labadi beach in Accra on January 15 this year with physically challenged persons in Ghana taking part in the competition which attracted numerous spectators and soccer fans in Ghana.

Among the teams that has participated in the competition are Ashanti Warriors and Acrra Giants but the high point will be the Ghana vs. Nigeria march which promises to evoke the age long soccer rivalry between the two West African countries just as the event is expected to be widely reported by sponsoring media outfits including Super sports.

The tournament according to the company is aimed at bringing together physically challenged persons who usually beg for alms on locally made skate boards in Accra and Nigeria to a well-organized and rewarding soccer competition.

Binatone Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sunil Lalvani said the skate soccer competition is an innovation, which is the first ever of its kind anywhere in the world.

He explained that the first part of the project is to enhance activities among physically challenged members of the society stressing that “we intend to popularize the project by making it seen and more appreciated by the citizens, sponsors, companies and tourists”

“The second and most important part of the project is to attempt to raise some funds through sponsorships in terms of branding for their upkeep and also probably set up provision shops for each of those who want it and provide capital for those who also want to trade. With these shops, they will be able to leave the streets and the begging job and eventually be integrated into a normal society. This will eventually make them self-relevant,” he explained

Mr Lalvani pointed out that all efforts are on to make the game well known throughout Africa and beyond with possible state funding to register with recognized Sports Associations

The Skate soccer competition, he explains also provide great opportunities for sponsoring corporate organization. “With this scale of event, there is plenty that we can offer co-sponsors. We have vast space of barricades that go round the playing area with flex banners covering them. We also have large pillars on each spectator stand that will be covered by sponsor’s banners,” he added.

 

Anthony Nlebem