The 3rd edition of the All Star Festival has officially begun in Tamale, with the Sports Business Series which was held on Thursday, June 20 at the Dr. Andani Andan Academic Board Chamber at the University of Development Studies (UDS).
The Sports Business Series is a forum where the potential of sports to the development of the economy is discussed in a seminar-like fashion by leading professionals and experts in the sporting industry.
The theme for this year’s edition was: Sports Business and The Potential of Esports to Ghana’s Sporting Industry.
Today’s event featured prominent figures from Ghana’s sporting landscape. Prof. Elliot Haruna Alhassan, Pro-Vice Chancellor of UDS, shared his insights alongside Mr. Neil Armstrong-Mortagbe, Head of PR and Strategy at the Ghana Football Association (GFA). Delali Phrank Awutey, Communications Director of the Ghana Esports Federation, and Mas-ud Didi Dramani, Head Coach of Ghana’s U23 Black Galaxies, also participated, offering a well-rounded perspective on the evolving sports industry.
In an eye opener, Mr. Neil Armstrong-Mortagbe, former Managing Director of Accra Hearts of Oak took turn to discuss the worth of the Ghanaian sporting industry.
“The Ghanaian Sports Industry is estimated to be worth $200 million dollars. And it’s enough to accommodate everyone with a sports business spectacle”.
“The Sports Industry like every other sector has it own unique challenges. And as people, it’s in trying to solve these challenges that open us up to other amazing opportunities.” Mr. Neil Armstrong added.
The Communication Director of the Ghana Esports Federation Delali Phrank Awutey, also addressed the gathering stating that “E-sports is a growing sport and it’s not for truants as it was once perceived in Ghana”.
The All Star Festival continues tomorrow with a “Legends night” event. This gathering will celebrate Ghanaian football heroes of yesteryears and provide a platform for current and former players to connect.
The festival culminates on Saturday, June 22nd, with the highly anticipated All Star game.
The All Star team will face off against the Northern Stars, a select side of talented local players, at the Alui Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale.