LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Rugby league's international presence is expanding as the International Rugby League (IRL) has awarded Ghana full membership status.
Ghana initiated its journey in international rugby league by facing Nigeria in 2019, quickly marking its first victory against Cameroon shortly thereafter.
Since that debut, the Ghanaian team has participated in several international matches, including a notable win over Nigeria in November 2023. Despite the recent successes, rugby league has a history in Ghana stretching back 13 years, with its governing body established in 2014.
Prior to this recognition, Ghana held affiliate membership for six years. The promotion comes as part of the IRL's initiative to support well-governed, financially prudent, and operationally efficient organizations that manage competitive leagues effectively.
"On behalf of the IRL Board, I would like to congratulate RLFG for this fantastic achievement. It is a fantastic story. Since the project began in 2012, the Ghanaian rugby league community has gone from strength to strength and is an absolute testimony to what can be achieved with good governance," stated IRL Chairman Tony Grant.
He continued, "They have worked diligently over many years to grow their organisational infrastructure in a sustainable manner and the scope of their activity is very impressive."
Furthermore, he highlighted, "From schoolboys and schoolgirls in multiple areas of the country, right the way through to the national teams, domestic pathways exist and a true rugby league community has been created and nurtured. Everyone involved should be very proud of this accomplishment."