Young talents emerge at GLICO National Squash Open

With squash set to feature at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, the sport is gaining renewed global attention, with emerging talents taking centre stage at the GLICO General National Open Championship in Ghana.

The two-day competition, held from May 1 to 2, 2026, at the Tema Community 5 Squash Court in the Greater Accra Region, showcased a blend of elite performance and promising youth talent. Fast-rising Nigerian professional Tosi Bejide delivered a commanding performance to claim top honours, securing back-to-back victories in the tournament.

He outclassed Ghana’s Evans Ayih of the Tema Squash and Rackets Club, who finished second, while Ernest Anafo of the Achimota Squash Club placed third. All podium finishers received both cash and non-cash prizes.

Beyond the top three, the tournament spotlighted Ghana’s next generation of squash players, with two teenagers delivering standout performances against more experienced opponents.

Fifteen-year-old Yaw Nimo-Ahinkorah, a first-year student of Achimota School, and 16-year-old Augustus Nana Kwesi Boateng of Adisadel College impressed spectators with their composure and fearless approach.

Their performances have been widely seen as a positive sign for the future of squash in Ghana.

The competition was officiated by lead umpire Ebo Koomson of the Takoradi Officers Mess Squash Club, ensuring high standards throughout the event.

In a move expected to support grassroots development, headline sponsor GLICO General reaffirmed its commitment to the sport through plans to refurbish the only senior high school squash court in the country, located at Achimota School.

The initiative comes ahead of the school’s centenary celebration in 2027 and is expected to enhance training opportunities for young athletes.

Additional support from corporate organisations and individuals also contributed to the successful staging of the championship, underscoring growing interest in the development of squash in Ghana.