Accra, Oct. 2, GNA - The Ghana Hockey Association (GHA) has launched a three year Strategic Plan aimed at creating sustainable improvement of the game in the country.

The Strategic Plan, which spans from 2009 to 2012, is under the theme "Consolidating Synergy for Success" and emphasizes on the current situation of the sports in the country. It also takes a look at administrative structures, development of players and coaches as well as umpires and technical officials. The Plan will also include development and planning of competitions, structures and facilities, creating media exposure and partnership and marketing and developing financial support for the sport.

Mr Richard Akpokavie, Vice chairman of the GHA who made a presentation of the strategic plan in Accra, said the second part of the Plan will, however, draw strengths and weaknesses in the implementation of the first part of the plan and put the future of the sport in perspective.

He said the plan will also focus on key development areas, such as setting an action plan with measurable and achievable targets within realistic timeliness.

According to Mr Akpokavie, the GHA is of the view that by 2012, the sport will be the second popular sport in the country after football since they are bent on developing the game from all angles. He said that the Association is also considering making Ghana the second best nation on the continent in the sport by 2012 as well as accumulating adequate points to participate in major international competitions.

Mr Worlanyo Agrah, Chief Executive Officer of the National Sports Council (NSC) who launched the Strategic Plan, said the document was in line with the general plan of the Council to develop sports in the country.

He said it will, however, require the collective efforts of all stakeholders to ensure its effective implementation, adding that the NSC has reached agreement with international organizations to take charge of various aspects of sports development in the country. Mr Agrah said the Strategic Plan of the GHA is achievable and must be given the needed support to succeed.

He called on all stakeholders to commit themselves to the implementation of the Plan, which he said will ensure the development of the sport in the country.