GOC hails Black Rockets for Triple Gold triumph at African Youth Boxing Championship

The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) hosted the Black Rockets on May 28, 2025. The Black Rockets are Ghana’s national youth boxing team. They returned from the Africa Youth Amateur Boxing Championship in Guinea-Conakry with three gold medals.

The team was accompanied by a delegation from the Ghana Boxing Federation (GBF). This delegation included President DSI Bernard Quartey and other officials. Notable members were 1st Vice President Alhaji Dauda Fuseini and Treasurer Mustapha Nettey.

The gold medalists were Desmond Pappoe (middleweight, 75kg), Mathias Ashitey (flyweight, 51kg), and George Nii Nortey Dowuona (bantamweight, 54kg). All three boxers are trained by Coach Joseph Martey.

President Quartey expressed pride in the team's unexpected success. He noted their strong performance showed great potential for future victories. He credited their dedication and support from the GBF despite financial challenges.

Quartey announced plans to help more boxers at upcoming Youth Olympic qualifiers in Angola this December. He said, “We’ll open doors for boxers ready to chase their dreams.”

GOC President Richard Akpokavie praised both the team and GBF for their achievements. He promised strong support for their Youth Olympic goals. Akpokavie stated that qualifying for the Youth Olympics is crucial for future success.

He urged the boxers to remain focused and work hard. “Don’t think you’ve arrived,” he warned them. Akpokavie emphasized that an Olympic medal holds immense value.

He highlighted the Youth Olympics as a vital platform for young athletes before the main Olympics. GOC leadership present included Secretary General Kassim Mohammed Muniru and Treasurer Evans Yeboah.

In closing, Akpokavie reaffirmed GOC’s commitment to supporting their preparation for qualifiers. He assured them they would have what they need to succeed.