GOC Offers Olympic Scholarship to Two Ahead of LA 2028 Games

Accra: The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) has launched a specialized athlete development program in Europe to support two promising athletes in preparation for the 2028 Olympic Games. The initiative aims to enhance Ghana's prospects of winning medals at the Games. According to Ghana News Agency, the Olympic Solidarity program has facilitated advanced training for Judo star Elizabeth Serwaa Oduro in France and will provide similar opportunities for Taekwondo ace Henritta Naa Ayele Armah in Germany. The Olympic Scholarship covers travel expenses, including a return ticket at the end of the program and an annual round-trip for holidays, as well as a $5,000 travel subsidy for competition-related travel. Mr. Richard Akpokavie, President of the GOC, emphasized that the selections were based on consistent high-level performances and recommendations from coaches rather than being arbitrary. He stated that the committee's primary focus is on supporting athletes to reach their full potential, with the expectation that recipients work hard in return for the investment made in them. The GOC President commended the federations for their efforts in developing athletes who continue to represent Ghana on the international stage. He also mentioned that the athletes would undergo evaluations through their participation in key international tournaments during their training period in Europe. Mr. Kenneth Arthur, President of the Ghana Judo Association, expressed gratitude to the GOC for the selection, viewing it as a vote of confidence in the sport. He acknowledged the athletes as disciplined competitors committed to qualifying for the next Olympic Games and earning medals for Ghana. The Olympic Scholarships awarded to the athletes are expected to conclude in 2028, aligning with Ghana's preparations for the Olympic Games.