Sports Highlights for the Year 2024
“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.” These words from Nelson Mandela capture the essence of sports—its ability to teach lessons of resilience, teamwork, and determination while fostering connections that transcend boundaries.
To us at International Community School (ICS), sports is more than just games. It is integral to shaping well-rounded learners, building character, and encouraging a healthy balance between academics and extracurricular activities. The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for our sports teams, filled with competitive matches, personal bests, and collective achievements.
From our senior boys’ football team clinching first place at the ISSAG tournament to the consistent growth of our volleyball and basketball teams, ICS athletes have demonstrated commitment, discipline, and a spirit of togetherness. This year also saw the continued development of handball and tennis, with players dedicating time and effort to honing their skills and representing the school with pride.
Let’s dive into the highlights of the year and celebrate the successes of our incredible sports teams.
Handball: Excellence Through Collaboration
The ICS Handball Team has continued to impress our entire community with their teamwork and commitment. Handball, a fast-paced sport requiring both individual skill and cohesive team strategies, thrives when players work in harmony. The team’s ability to communicate effectively both on and off the court has been fundamental to their performance. This year, our players demonstrated a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to adjust tactics in real time, making the most out of every play. Whether it’s setting up a shot, defending, or coordinating offensive strategies, the ICS handball team excelled by supporting each other and ensuring that everyone plays an integral role in every match. This synergy enabled them to operate as a well-oiled machine, with each player contributing to the team’s collective success. Their strong communication skills and ability to work together on and off the court have been key to their success. Under the guidance of their coach, the team has consistently improved their strategies and skills through regular training sessions, strengthening their performance, making handball a point of pride at ICS.
Volleyball: Serving Up Progress
Volleyball has seen steady growth across both the Accra and Kumasi campuses.. We offer after-school training for both juniors and seniors, led by dedicated coaches focused on skill development. Players often enjoy mastering different types of serves, such as underhand, overhand, and jump serves, as they learn how to effectively initiate plays. Each of these skills contributes to overall teamwork and success on the court. As a proud ISSAG member school, we look forward to thrilling games next year, aiming not just to compete, but to win and honour the name of ICS.
Football: Strengthening a Legacy
At International Community School (ICS), football is a cornerstone of our athletic program, fostering a competitive spirit that has flourished over the years. The dedication of our senior teams has been outstanding. The boys’ team recently secured first place in the prestigious ISSAG (International Schools Sports Association Ghana) tournament, while the girls’ team proudly finished third. These accomplishments highlight not only the skill and teamwork of our players but also the strong football culture at ICS.
Our players understand that success on the field requires commitment and continuous improvement. We encourage each other to refine our skills and strategies. Our coaches are fully committed to our development, providing valuable guidance and support. They emphasize the importance of hard work and keep us motivated and focused on our goals. Training sessions are designed to improve both our physical fitness—such as pace and shooting—and our technical abilities, all while promoting a sense of unity within the team.
Moving forward into the new year, we urge my players to stay positive and motivated, knowing that with dedication and a strong sense of camaraderie, they can achieve great things. The spirit of ICS football goes beyond just winning; it’s about building resilience and striving for excellence.
Tennis: A Game of Skill and Strategy
Tennis at ICS continues to captivate players and spectators alike. This year, students have worked hard to improve their game, mastering various techniques. At ICS, the beauty of tennis comes alive on our courts, where each serve, volley, and rally is an indication of the dedication and skill of our players. The fluid movement of players as they dash across the court, the sound of a perfectly struck ball, and the exhilarating moments of a hard-fought point all contribute to the sport’s charm. Beyond the physical aspects, tennis at ICS fosters an environment of mutual respect and friendship, where competitors become friends and teammates cheer each other on. The sportsmanship and respect for opponents, integral to tennis, highlight the game’s grace and integrity. At ICS, tennis isn’t just about winning; it’s about celebrating the journey, the effort, and the sheer joy of playing a game that captivates hearts and minds alike. On our courts, players celebrate not just their victories but also their progress, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for all.
Basketball: Preparing for Big Challenges
As ICS prepares for the ISSAG Sports competition in January 2025, the basketball team has been putting in consistent effort to improve. Players have focused on refining their skills and building strong team dynamics under the direction of experienced coaches. Training sessions have been structured to develop both individual abilities and group strategies. The team’s focus on preparation and collaboration reflects the values of discipline and persistence that are central to sports at ICS.
Collaboration with our Coaches
In all the wins and growth we have seen in various sports facets across on our campuses, our coaches have remained consistent and resilient in helping with the training of our students. To make things even better, this year, we had the help and guidance of one of our parents, Mr. Joel Laryea, who dedicated his time and effort into ensuring that both our boys and girls Basketball team were reading for every game, whether in-house or inter-school. Through various training and coaching sessions, Mr, Laryea, took our Basketball team to another level of growth. One thing is for sure, The coach not only provides technical skills and game strategies but also the relationship between our coaches and players which has been built on trust and mutual respect, an environment where players feel empowered to grow and push their limits.
The year 2024 has been a productive one for sports at ICS. Across all disciplines, students have demonstrated focus, teamwork, and a willingness to improve. These achievements are a testament to the hard work of our athletes, the guidance of their coaches, and the support of the school community.
As we reflect on this year’s successes, we look forward to more opportunities for growth in the coming year. Sports at ICS will continue to inspire, unite, and build character among our students.
About our Authors
Mr. Larry Aidoo is a seasoned Physical Education Instructor with extensive expertise in sports and exercise science. Holding a B.Ed in HPERS and an M.Ed in Physical Education, he has coached volleyball, handball, athletics, tennis, and girls’ soccer. As a Sports Coordinator, Mr. Aidoo is passionate about promoting physical fitness and nurturing students’ athletic potential through engaging and inclusive programs.
Mr. Godwin Quasi Tetteh serves as the PE Teacher and Athletics Coordinator. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and plays a vital role in overseeing and coordinating sports and athletics activities at ICS. In addition to teaching Physical Education in the Prep School, he also supports PE classes in the High School, fostering students’ physical development and promoting a culture of sportsmanship.
