Ghana Badminton has completed a three-day Para-Badminton training programme at the Borteyman Sports Complex as part of its preparations towards the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games.
The programme brought together para-athletes from across the country and focused on coaching, athlete development and introducing shuttlers to the rules and technical demands of Para-Badminton. The training was facilitated by Badminton Africa instructor Dr. Ahmed Reda, with support from members of the Ghana Badminton Association.
Ghana Badminton President Evans Yeboah said the association is committed to making the sport inclusive and accessible to people of all abilities. “Whether you are a person with a disability or not, we have programmes and initiatives for you. This course is aimed at teaching Ghanaian coaches and players the international and technical approach to Para-Badminton,” he said.
He added that the initiative forms part of Ghana Badminton’s four-year strategic plan to build a formidable national team and develop coaches across the country. “We have established a formidable squad and are also looking at developing at least eight coaches who can be spread across the country to train para-athletes. We have competitions in Thailand, Egypt, Dubai and Ireland, and our hope is to qualify at least two athletes to the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles,” Yeboah added.
On the age range for the programme, the President said there was no strict limit but encouraged young adults to take up the sport. “There is no strict age limit, but we recommend young adults because it gives them a longer lifespan to play for the country and the sport,” he noted.
Dr. Ahmed Reda expressed his delight at being in Ghana to support the development of Para-Badminton, describing the programme as an important step for the sport. “I am very happy to be in Ghana for this development programme. We started with a Level One Coaching Course, followed by a disability coaching workshop and a Para-Badminton national competition. It was an intense programme, but everything went well,” he said.
The Badminton Africa instructor also believes Ghana has the potential to produce an African champion and qualify athletes for the Paralympic Games. “There is definitely potential. This competition gives us the opportunity to see more Para-Badminton players in Ghana and work together with Badminton Ghana to promote the sport. We hope one day to see an African champion from Ghana and athletes who can qualify for the Paralympic Games,” he added.
One of the participants, who has represented Ghana internationally, said he was impressed with the programme and the opportunity it had created for persons with disabilities. “I am very impressed to be here. Disability is not inability, and persons with disabilities are capable of doing great things. I am happy that the association is promoting an all-inclusive approach,” he said.
He also urged parents not to hide children living with disabilities. “To persons living with disabilities, I want to say that disability is not the end of the road. You are capable of doing something, whether in sports or any other field. Parents should bring their children out because they are also capable,” he added.
Another participant said Para-Badminton had positively impacted her life and encouraged more persons with disabilities to take up the sport. “This game has really helped me because of my situation. I want to encourage my friends and other persons with disabilities to come and play. They should not just sit at home; they should practise and give themselves a chance,” she said.
“My coach encouraged me to come and play, and now I am winning. I hope to become the best,” she added.
The three-day programme ended with training matches, with participants receiving medals and plaques for their efforts as Ghana Badminton continues its push to build a strong Para-Badminton team for international competition and the LA 2028 Paralympic Games.
By; Victoria Kwofie
