Charles Quartey, President of the United Coaches Association of Ghana, has called upon the government to invest in young boxers representing the nation. He believes these talented individuals have the potential to become world champions.
In an interview on Omashi TV’s “The Big Fight Night,” Quartey highlighted the abundance of talented boxers in Ghana, but emphasized the need for greater exposure and experience.
Reflecting on his experience leading the national youth team to the 2024 IBA Youth World International competition in Montenegro and Serbia, Quartey acknowledged the valuable experience gained. However, he expressed concerns about the impact of officiating on the team’s performance, which prevented any Ghanaian boxer from reaching the medal zone and earning prize money.
Charles Quartey attributed these challenges to factors such as the team’s delayed departure and the impact of the weather. Despite these setbacks, he considered the tournament a valuable learning experience.
Furthermore, He advocated for the training of Ghanaian international technical officers and ring officials, including referees and judges.
Coach Charles Quartey who is an expert in handling youth boxers said Ghana needs to be informed and educated enough before deciding to choose IBA or World Boxing.
While satisfied with the number of star-rated coaches in Ghana, Quartey cautioned against the practice of mixing amateur and professional boxer training. He urged the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) to maintain fair and professional governance, upholding the integrity and reputation built by prominent figures like Samir Captan, Moses Foh Amoaning, and Peter Zwennes.
The President of the United Coaches Association of Ghana expressed concerns over the high cost in hiring the Bukom Boxing Arena for boxing activities. He appealed to the Ga chiefs, who granted the site to SSNIT, to reclaim the land if boxers continue to face exploitation and suffer instead of prospering.
“Let me use this Omashi TV platform to also appeal to boxing fans to behave at the Arena, because their behaviour to throwing things into the ring also sends people away” he stressed.
Quartey who is also the founder and head trainer at the Charles Quartey Boxing Foundation requested for better remuneration of coaches who take care of boxers to reach the limelight.
Looking towards the future, he voiced optimism about the bright prospects of Ghanaian boxing, particularly given the abundance of talented juvenile boxers. The head trainer strongly advocated for the government to construct a dedicated national boxing training centre.
Finally, Charles Quartey extended his appreciation to his executive team at the United Coaches Association and the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF).
By Sammy Heywood Okine
