by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

Present at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, he is confident that the country’s leading players will excel in the table tennis arena and that the administration will be of high class.

Recently Derek Abrefa spoke to Peace FM Online Radio in Accra.

”We have all it takes to successfully host the Games. I encourage heads of various sports associations who have assumed office recently to emulate what the previous leaders were doing and work hard. We saw their efforts, sacrifices to lift the image of sport in Ghana. I am boldly saying that if all leaders emulate what their predecessors have done, Ghana’s name will not be forgotten in the history of the Games.” Derek Abrefa

Equally he had positive words of advice for young and aspiring athletes.

“I encourage young and upcoming athletes to continue to work hard. The journey to the top is not easy but it’s worth it. Stay focused and know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.” Derek Abrefa

Undoubtedly, the 2023 African Games is a somewhat long term aim; the more pressing engagement is the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

”The Ghanaian team compared to the previous competitions, I would say we have really improved a lot and if all players are committed, we can make an impact on the globe.” Derek Abrefa.

Presently on the men’s world rankings, 27 year old Derek Abrefa, most humble and polite, is listed at no.279.