Takoradi, Jan. 3 GNA - The Management and old players of Sekondi Hasaacas Football Club on Thursday honoured Mr. Edward Alexander Nartey, a former chairman of the club at an impressive ceremony at Takoradi. Nanabanyin Eyison, chief executive officer of the club on behalf of the management presented Mr Nartey with a symbolic chair, a wall clock made in the colours of the club with its motto, "Play the game, but lovely" and a lamp shade.

Mr. Evans Aryeequaye on behalf of the old players also presented him with cartons of milk, mineral water, beverages, cooking oil and bags of sugar and rice.

His wife, Mrs. Nartey was also presented with a special gift. Mr Eyison said the presentation was in recognition of Mr. Nartey's dedication and foresight during his ten year' administration (1974-1984) which transformed Hasaacas to a fearsome side in the country and among top clubs on the continent.

He described Mr. Nartey as "a visionary and spiritual father" whose unequalled leadership brought many honours to the club and players who passed through his hands.

"He did not only encouraged players to kick the ball but also inspired them to be masters of their future", he added.

Nanabanyin Eyison promised to work hard with other members of the executive committee to enhance the fortunes of the club and called for support from players, supporters and sympathizers.

Mr. Aryeequaye who described the ceremony as a "Home coming event", gave the assurance that the old players are more determined than ever before to assist the club to improve upon its records.

Mr. Nartey, aged 70 years, advised the management, players and supporters not to forget their watchword, which is "discipline, dedication and determination", on which the club was founded in 1931. He urged the players to "die a little" for the club and commended the management and old players, most of whom are self-employed for recognizing his efforts to uplift the club.

At the same ceremony, Mr. Sly Tetteh, chief executive officer of Dansoman-based Liberty Professionals Football Club presented a trophy his club had won for keeps, to Mr. Nartey to be competed for annually in encounters between the two clubs.

It was an atmosphere of joy and emotions as some of the old players including Robert Kwofie, Emmanuel Quarshie, Michael Essien, Enock Koomson and Kofi Abbrey recounted their football performance in their hay days.

Other old players who sang the club's inspirational songs, danced and hugged one another included P.S.K. Paha, Isaac Paha, Robert Nyarko, Maama Fuseini, Sly Tetteh, P. O. Kasum, Abraham Boison and Emmanuel Abankwah.