Experiences: Tintinto

David, from the UK, was at Tintinto and Tafo in July 2005. He writes about his time there and his impressions.

Thoughts on Tafo Football Academy, July 2005:
Tafo was larger and more developed than expected, boasting a football pitch, a large number of schools, a special maternity hospital and, naturally, plenty of religious buildings. The locals were friendly, especially away from the main road. There are reasonably frequent vehicles to the motor park in Nkawkaw, the nearest transport hub.

My host family was very welcoming and educated. They provided decent meals. I slept in a nice room at coach Kofi's house, which they had kindly prepared for my arrival.

The football team was of a very high standard; these lads have been selected as the best talent from surrounding towns and villages. Their ages ranged between 12 and 16 (?). The pitch was in reasonable condition (goal nets maybe needed) and there are enough footballs. The
coach, Kofi (aka Black Dragon (or something like that)), was super - anyone considering this project would ideally have coaching experience and really be able to take this already great project to the next level. Many of these lads have the hopes, and potential, to play for some of Ghana's major teams.

Materials to bring:

From what I could see, there were enough cones, footballs, and bibs etc, although a few more would certainly be useful. I would concentrate more on bringing tried and proven coaching techniques, skills and experience, and perhaps some coaching manuals / books. I initially assisted Kofi with his coaching routine, then led a number of sessions myself allowing Kofi to attend other functions - he is an important member of the community.

The project also provides basic accommodation for the lads. They sleep on wooden slats. A future volunteer might bring some camping roll mats, or buy some pieces of foam in Ghana to provide a little comfort. Although not too much - these lads are in training...

They'd appreciate some simple books, especially anything football related. I provided a radio but you might like to add to that.

There are enough second-hand football boots/shoes in Ghana, so should you feel it necessary, you could buy some whilst there. In theory, all basic needs of the boys should be met by the leader of the project to whom you pay the donation. Contrary to what the kidsworldwide website says, there is a middle-man of sort; at the projects you give your donation to an on-site director, whom you trust to spend it responsibly and on what it was intended for.

You will assist with the football coaching from 3-6pm, have some dinner with your host family, then perhaps spend some time assisting the boys with school work etc in the evening. There is certainly free time in the evening to spend as you wish, and weekends will allow for longer trips etc. The rest of the day would ideally be filled with teaching at a local school.

I spent time at the 'Experimental School' which I found rather pleasant. A simple building in lush surroundings, with a high calibre of educated teaching staff. They will, though, always appreciate any help you can give. If you don't fancy taking full lessons at first, you could act as an assistant helping individual children with their needs. I generally taught Maths, using the course book as a guide. The Ghanaian curriculum does expect a lot of the class, particularly since they are taught in English - a 2nd language at best. Still, constant exposure to language at a young age is, certainly, the best way to acquire it naturally.

I hope that this report helps future volunteers plan thier trip and get the best from their experience whilst at Tintinto.

Dave