LOC expresses deadline optimism

Accra, April 2, GNA - The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for this year's African Hockey Federation (AfHF) Nations Cup, has expressed optimism in beating the deadline for hosting the event in Ghana. The tournament which is expected to feature about 10 participants each in the male and female divisions', kicks off in July and the LOC has less than three months to put the necessary infrastructure in place for the successful organization of the tourney.

Abuga Pele, Chairman of the LOC told GNA Sports after an inspection tour of facilities at the National Hockey Pitch in Accra on Thursday that they are on course for the tourney.

He expressed satisfaction with the level of construction ongoing at the site which includes a hostel for teams, Technical Room and a VIP Tribune.

Mr Pele explained that the yet-to-be-completed water-based pitch will accommodate about 1200 spectators.

The LOC Chairman added that the Committee has lined-up series of activities to whip-up interest in the championship among Ghanaians. "Hockey is not a popular sport in the country and so we have planned several activities to generate interest in the competition. "In the next few days, we will unveil the logo and mascot amongst others."

Jimmy Castagna, Managing Director of Micheletti and Company, contractors of the project gave the assurance that they are racing ahead of time in meeting the June 30 deadline. "We are very confident we will make the June 30 deadline. We have done due diligence and will surely deliver." All matches during the competition will be hosted at the National Hockey Pitch.

Mr Pele was accompanied by some of members of the LOC including Magnus Rex Danquah, Elizabeth King, Yaw Ampofo Ankrah and Richard Akpokavie.