Young Referees Kotey and Nettey Aim for Global Recognition

Out of 42 referees and judges trained by the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) in December 2022, only four remain active. Among them are Nathaniel Neequaye Kotey and David Nettey, two young officials striving to become world-class referees.

Kotey, the 2024 Boxing Ghana Referee of the Year and a Methodist University marketing student, credits his uncle, GBA President Abraham Neequaye, for inspiring his journey. Nettey, a building technology student at Accra Technical University, follows the example of his father, Vincent Akai Nettey, a renowned coach.

Both are passionate about Ghana boxing’s potential, despite challenges like inadequate funding and equipment. They urged increased investment to develop grassroots talent and maintain Ghana’s legacy of producing champions.

They also called for greater appreciation of referees' roles and encouraged coaches and fans to better understand the rules of the sport to avoid disputes.

Kotey and Nettey remain optimistic about Ghana’s future in boxing, aiming to raise the sport’s standards and contribute to its growth.