Youngsters return from football camp

Six youngsters who made it to a Football Camp in South Africa after gaining selection from the Airtel Rising Football competition are bracing up for the next level by setting their sights on call ups into the junior national teams.

The players returned to the country on Saturday after the one-week stint where they joined 14 other nationals from Zambia, Nigeria and Uganda as sponsors, Airtel, aims to develop young talents in Africa through an Under-17 boys/girls football competition across the continent.

Four boys, Amos Addai, Arcadio Attinu, Daniel Abaa and Nurudeen Azeed together with Joyce Baah and Priscilla Okyere represented Ghana.

Briefing President of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi on Monday about their one-week stay in South Africa, Daniel Abaa said that, they have been exposed to different ways of doing things in the game and embraced other social changes.

"We are thrilled to have been part of the football clinic and must say that we have learnt something new. We know that to make it, we must be disciplined and need to work hard and focus on the game," the 15 year-old from Upper East Region said.

"We want to appeal to you [President] that we are considered for the junior national teams."

Responding, Kwesi Nyantakyi explained that the national teams are open to every qualified Ghanaian and demanded from the players to strive to work hard and improve.

"You must consider yourselves privileged to have had such an opportunity to learn. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and a stepping stone in your careers," the President of the GFA said.

"This camp has enhanced your personalities and boosted your confidence. Ensure that you stay focused and realize your dreams.

"We are all aware that selection to the national teams is based on performance. The door is open for you and everyone. At 15 years now, you need to work hard towards something, that's getting into the Under-17 teams.

"Work hard and maintain your focus," he said.