Following their victory at the 13th African Games, the men's and women's national hockey teams, the Black Sticks, paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Gas Company, Dr. Ben KD Asante.

Their visit was to present their winning medals to Dr. Asante, who also serves as the President of the Ghana Hockey Association.

Accompanied by their coaches and other support staff, the team discussed their experiences at the tournament and their aspirations for future competitions.

Addressing the team, the President of the Association expressed his pleasure at receiving the valiant medalists and praised them for raising Ghana's flag high at the prestigious 13th African Games hosted by Ghana.

He believes that the team has the capability to compete in international tournaments, given the remarkable confidence and strength they displayed at the Games.

Team manager Adjoyi Lebeneh stated, "Our meeting here today is to express our gratitude to Ghana Gas and the Hockey Association for their support before, during, and after the tournament, and for all the financial assistance provided by Ghana Gas to the hockey association for a successful event."

He highlighted, "Despite numerous challenges, we managed to host a successful tournament, with the women's team winning gold and the men's team securing silver.

"As the President of the Hockey Association and the CEO of Ghana Gas, we would like to present these medals to you," he said to Dr. Asante.

"Our report has been submitted to the Hockey Association for both the men's and women's teams. The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) also provided us with funds and equipment for the tournament, which we have returned to the association."

Approximately 40 individuals comprised the delegation that visited the CEO of the Ghana National Gas Company.

Dr. Ben Asante remarked, "When you represent the national team, you should think beyond your current role as a player.

The hockey president noted that four new water-based artificial turfs have been installed.

With Dr. Asante's support as the president of the Ghana Hockey Association and CEO of the Ghana National Gas Company, the Association has acquired turfs and accessories to construct three new pitches at KNUST, the University of Ghana (currently in progress), and the University of Cape Coast, as well as to renovate the national hockey stadium.

"You should consider your personal development; if hockey can facilitate this, whether through a job, education, or another avenue," he stressed.

"Don't limit yourself to being a national hockey player; many of us were once in your position and later pursued other passions. This is why we are committed to supporting hockey."

Under Dr. Asante's leadership over the past four years, the Ghana Hockey Association has produced numerous Fédération Internationale de Hockey (FIH) officials and umpires who receive appointments to international tournaments.

Individuals such as Frank Oti-Mensah, Isaac Graham, Dr. Bayitse, Joyce Datsa, Aziz Adimah, Cynthia Clement, George Roland, Agatha Hagan, Kwabena Asante, Quagraine Kofi, Ebenezer Nortey, and many young people have received international appointments.

Coaches, trainers, and officials have all benefited from Dr. Ben Asante's leadership.

"We have a team with zeal, commitment, and a competitive spirit, but a lack of exposure, techniques, and tactics has prevented us from winning major trophies in international tournaments. I always emphasize personal development and encourage you all to focus on it," Dr. Ben Asante affirmed.

Charles Abbiw, the team captain for the men's team, expressed his gratitude for the support and urged the Association to consider their concerns regarding the players' association.

The Ghana Hockey Association is preparing to host a youth tournament in Ghana later this year.