It appears only the seniormen attend Ghana Premier League games now and If care is not taken, the rivalry between Kotoko and Hearts will fade in future – Kessben Sports Crew bemoans
On Thursday’s edition of Midfield Action, members of the Kessben Sports team voiced their concerns about the waning enthusiasm for Ghana’s top-flight football, especially among the youth. They warned that if this trend continues, the once-electric atmosphere that surrounded the Kotoko-Hearts derby could become a thing of the past.
The rivalry between Kotoko and Hearts is not just about football; it’s a cultural event that captivates the nation, with fans from all corners of Ghana turning out in large numbers to watch the two teams battle it out. Historically, these encounters have been seen as the ultimate showdown, bringing families and communities together to cheer for their respective clubs. The passion, the drama, and the intense competition have made these matches an unforgettable experience for many.
However, the Kessben Sports team pointed out a troubling shift in recent years. They noted that, while the rivalry still holds significant importance for senior citizens who grew up with the GPL, the younger generation seems to be increasingly disengaged from the league. Many young people are more inclined to follow international football leagues like the English Premier League, La Liga, and the Bundesliga, with little regard for domestic football. As a result, attendance at Ghana Premier League matches, especially those featuring Kotoko and Hearts, has been on a decline, with fewer young fans filling the stadiums.
This decline in interest is alarming, as the youth represent the future of football in Ghana. Without their support, the sustainability and growth of the GPL could be at risk, including the iconic rivalry between Kotoko and Hearts. Kessben Sports raised concerns that, if the current trend persists, Ghanaian football could lose its appeal to a new generation of fans, and the fierce competition that has defined the league for decades could fade into obscurity.
“Senior citizens have always been the backbone of the GPL, attending matches and supporting the teams. But we are seeing less and less of the youth in the stadiums, and it’s a worrying sign,” one of the Kessben Sports presenters remarked. “If the younger generation doesn’t get involved, the rivalry between Kotoko and Hearts – which has been the heartbeat of Ghanaian football for so long – may lose its relevance. This is something we need to take seriously.”
The presenters further emphasized that this shift in interest is not exclusive to Kotoko and Hearts but reflects a broader trend in the Ghana Premier League. The allure of international football, with its higher-profile stars and global broadcasts, has distracted many young fans from the excitement of the domestic league. The ease of access to streaming services and social media, where international football takes center stage, has made it harder for the GPL to compete for attention.
To address these concerns, the Kessben Sports team called for renewed efforts to engage young fans with the local league. They suggested that clubs, especially Kotoko and Hearts, should create initiatives aimed at bringing the youth back to the stadiums, including more interactive fan experiences, school and youth club partnerships, and affordable ticketing options. The team also proposed that the league should leverage modern digital platforms and social media to create a more engaging and youthful brand for the Ghana Premier League.
Another important factor in revitalizing the GPL’s appeal is improving the quality of play. Kessben Sports stressed that enhancing the league’s overall standard, from player development to coaching and infrastructure, would also help in attracting young fans. With better facilities, a higher level of competition, and more opportunities for young talents to shine, the GPL could see an increase in youth involvement both as players and as supporters.
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