by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF Africa, Press Officer

Winner of the accolade from 2010 to date, bronze medallist at the 2015 African Games; at the presentation ceremony staged in the Banquet Hall of the State House in Accra on Monday 29th May, he received the decoration from none other than Nana Akufo-Addo, the President of Ghana.

“I am so grateful and excited to receive the award; it is a rare gesture from the President to have graced the ceremony. It serves as a big motivation for me. It tells me that people are watching and it’s up to me to do my best for my country and now focus my attention on the world stage.” Derek Abrefa

A delighted Derek Abrefa, it was also a grateful Derek Abrefa who accepted the fact that the recognition would not have been possible, without the huge support from numerous corporate bodies and national organisations.

“I will remain grateful to the President of Ghana Table Tennis Association, Mawuko Afadzinu, whose commitment and passion for the sport has lifted the fortunes of table tennis. He has lifted our game from a nowhere to somewhere now. It is currently among the first three sport disciplines recognised in Ghana now in terms of publicity.” Derek Abrefa

Furthermore, he acknowledged the individuals who had supported his efforts over many years.

“I am grateful for the support I have received from the Director of Sports of Ghana Immigration Service, Samuel Ayer; also from Charles Tachie-Manson, who is the manager of the my club, Tesano Spinners Table Tennis Club. Additionally I thank Jason Onyameh of Divine Travel and Tour, who has supported my trips outside Ghana, while I cannot forget the support of corporate bodies like Stanbic Bank and Asky Airline for continuously supporting me over the years in my career.” Derek Abrefa

A well-deserved award; it is one that promotes the cause of table tennis in the African continent.