It is on record that the game of football was introduced into the Gold Coast region towards the close of the 19th century by merchants from Europe.

Some illustrious players have been Charles Kumi Gyamfi, Abédi Pelé, Abdul Razak, Tony Yeboah, Samuel Kuffour and Michael Essien.

Former Black Stars senior squad members such as Sulley Muntari, Michael Essien, John Mensah and captain Stephen Appiah all got their start at these youth tournaments.

Two Ghanaians, Alberta Sackey and Adjoa Bayor have been voted African Women Player of the Year.

Unlike other youth teams in Ghana (also known as colts), academies offer an educational setting alongside football training.

[9] Kumasi Sports Academy kickstarted the career of multiple female footballers, including Blessing Shine Agbomadzi, defender for the Black Queens.

Dozens of footballers started playing at Unistar, including Lumor Agbenyenu, defender for the Black Stars.

[10] Mandela Soccer Academy was established in Accra by Mohammed Issa with a main goal of leveraging football’s universal appeal to advance broader visions of youth and community empowerment.