The third edition of the Footy Legends event took place in grand style under the theme “Honoring the Fathers,” as Ghana’s former football stars were once again recognized for their contributions to the beautiful game. The event, held in Mantse Agbona, brought together old players who had represented both club and country, alongside the younger generation of footballers in a symbolic match that bridged the past and present.
While the matches were ongoing, a health screening session was simultaneously conducted for the retired players; highlighting one of the key objectives of the initiative: providing welfare and healthcare support to the nation’s football legends.
Familiar names such as Afo Dodoo and Sam Johnson were among those present, engaging warmly with fans and sharing memories from their playing days.
After the match, the legends gathered for a short ceremony where they reflected on their careers and were each presented with medals and care packages containing essential provisions.
The event is the brainchild of the son of Ghanaian football legend Alfred Nortey, who explained the motivation behind the initiative.
Footy Legends came out of passion for the game and a deep sense of gratitude,” he said. “As we speak, some of our football legends are not in the best of shape when it comes to welfare. Our vision is to support them; whether through groceries, medical care, or mobilizing funds for those with health conditions. That’s why we set up Footy Legends: to care for those who helped us fall in love with football.
The journey began three years ago when an enthusiast; whose father played for Acutex in his prime rallied fellow corporate professionals and football lovers to honour his father and his peers.
We came together as enthusiasts from different professional backgrounds to pool resources and make it happen. The elders were very happy with the first edition, so we reached out to sponsors the following year and included health screenings and medications
One of the recurring issues raised during the event was the lack of institutional support for retired footballers in Ghana.
Most of them didn’t have the opportunity to save or invest. There’s no retirement fund, no pension scheme for them. Once their careers end, they’re often left at the mercy of friends and family,” he explained. “We need to begin a serious conversation among football authorities and government about creating a welfare scheme for our legends.
He cited examples of players from Ghana’s 1978 and 1982 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squads who were promised houses and investment opportunities that never materialized.
They gave everything for the country fought with heart and soul. Compare the commitment levels then to now, and you’ll see the difference. Yet, what has been done for them? Nothing,” he lamented. “Ghana is more focused on returns than honoring sacrifices. But we believe that as football enthusiasts, it’s our duty to invest in these people.
He ended by thanking sponsors and media partners who helped bring the event to life.
We are grateful to Dutilex, Air Ash Homes, Airport View Hotel, Excelbit Company Limited and Mega Life Sciences for the health screenings. Spiffy Clothing and MOA were also instrumental in supporting this edition,” he said. “Thank you for helping us honor the fathers who made this nation proud on the pitch.
The Footy Legends event continues to grow, not only in scale but in its impact highlighting the need for sustainable care and recognition for those who gave their best years to Ghanaian football.