Growing the Game in Ghana

At Y1 Hockey, we believe hockey should be accessible to everyone, everywhere.

That belief is what has driven our ongoing work in Ghana, since 2023. In partnership with Project Ghana and local organisations, we are helping remove barriers to sport, support communities and create real opportunities for young people to discover and grow through hockey.

This is not a one-off initiative. It is a long-term commitment, with continued annual support to ensure lasting impact.

Removing Barriers Through Access to Equipment

Over the past year, Y1 has funded and delivered the sourcing, shipment and distribution of over 300 hockey sticks and hundreds of other essential equipment such as clothing, shin pads, gloves etc, to senior high schools across Ghana.

Every aspect of this project, from equipment mobilisation to international shipping and associated costs, has been fully supported by Y1 to ensure that access to hockey is no longer limited by financial constraints.

Each school received a minimum of 10 sticks, creating a sustainable base for participation, development and long-term growth.

This is grassroots sport in its truest form. Opening the door for young people who otherwise would not have the opportunity to play.

Building Inclusive Hockey Communities

Hockey in Ghana is growing, and inclusivity sits at the heart of that growth.

More than 30 schools from across the country came together for the National SHS & Colleges Hockey Championship, creating one of the most inclusive school hockey events in recent years.

As the main equipment sponsor, Y1 ensured that every team could compete properly equipped, regardless of background or resources.

This is what meaningful inclusion looks like. Not just participation, but equal opportunity to compete, develop and be seen.

Real Impact Across Communities

The impact of this initiative extends far beyond the initial donation.

Each school is expected to engage between 100 and 200 students every year through PE lessons, hockey clubs and competitions. With equipment lasting at least five years, the long-term reach is significant.

Across more than 30 schools, this equates to an estimated:

15,000 to 30,000 young people gaining access to hockey

These are students being introduced to the game, building confidence, learning teamwork and becoming part of a sporting community.

And importantly, this impact continues to grow as equipment is shared, reused and passed on.

Creating Pathways, Not Just Participation

Access is only the first step. Opportunity must follow.

From this year’s national championship, over 60 players were selected for junior national teams, demonstrating the depth of talent that exists when barriers are removed.

This is how the game grows sustainably. By creating clear pathways from school-level participation to national representation.

Recognised Contribution to Grassroots Sport

This work has been formally recognised by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, acknowledging the role it plays in:

• Expanding access to sport
• Supporting grassroots development
• Promoting inclusivity within hockey

It reinforces the importance of investing in community-led initiatives that deliver long-term change.

Powered by Partnership, Led by Purpose

While Y1 has funded and driven the global logistics of this initiative, its success is built on collaboration.

Project Ghana has led the vision on the ground, ensuring support reaches the schools that need it most.

Legon Knights Hockey Club has provided vital local structure, coordinating delivery, engaging schools and supporting coaching to ensure the programme runs effectively.

Together, this is what growing the game looks like. A shared commitment to access, community and opportunity.

A Commitment That Continues

This is an ongoing project, not a single moment.

Y1 is committed to continuing its annual support for hockey development in Ghana, including backing the National Championship and expanding access to equipment for future generations.

Because real change in sport does not happen overnight. It is built year by year, community by community.

More Than Charity

This work is rooted in giving, but it goes further than traditional charity.

It is about creating access.
It is about building confidence.
It is about strengthening communities through sport.

And above all, it is about giving young people the opportunity to grow.

Growing the Game. Growing People.

Thousands of young players in Ghana now have access to hockey.

Many are picking up a stick for the first time.
Some are already stepping onto a national pathway.

This is the impact of making sport inclusive.

This is how the game grows.