Black Stars Game

SOCCER (FOOTBALL) GAME!

YES. We went to a Black Stars game. Which around here, if you didn’t know, is the famous Ghanaian soccer team. Everyone here is pretty much big on sports so when we heard there was a game at the Accra Sports Stadium, we knew we all had to go. Our upals arranged the trip and we went on September 2^nd, the day before my beautiful best friend Samantha’s birthday (love you, lady). We all got on a bus and trekked over to the stadium.

En route we picked up a few other students and they showed us Americans what a real busride should be like. I will soon be uploading videos to demonstrate what I mean. They sang, they screamed, they were drinking, it was hysterical. Also, everyone was decked out in jersey’s, hats, our at least the colors of Ghana’s flag (red, yellow, and green with a black star). On the way we got Ghanaians on the streets waving to us and yelling chants in support of the night’s game. So much energy.

When we arrived, the vendors flooded us. We were so American. I actually didn’t realize it until that day because everyone knew we would buy things just because we are only at a soccer game once. There were flags, hats, face painting, maps (Random), scarfs, whistles, beer, food, you name it. I ended up purchasing just one Ghanaian flag that says, “Ghana Black Star”. I wrapped it around my head and called it a day. I figured I could get more stuff later when I wasn’t being heinously overpriced. We got inside and the stadium was really nice. It ended up being pretty full considering it fits 4,000.

Mainly I started to enjoy the game when a entire group of Ghanaians came over and sat by us in the bleachers with their drums and other instruments. Yes, they began playing and didn’t stop until the end of the game. People were dancing constantly, trying to engage in conversations with us, vendors kept coming over with their products, and I just sat back and watched. It was incredible how much spirit and pride these people have for their country and team.

During half time we went outside and I saw a huge group of Muslims praying and washing their feet. At the stadium. Another mini culture shock ensued. They were just praying among people selling their sausages and bread. Craziness. Kim went to the bathroom and had quite possibly the funniest face when she came out and told me it was a hole in the ground. She proceeded to talk about how she was going to burn all her clothes. Another fact, people grab you a lot here. And I don’t know about you, but that makes me feel incredibly uncomfortable. I would be walking and a man will come up and say, “hey pretty girl let me buy you some food come with me” and grabs me dragging me away from the crowd until I rip my hand away and scurry back to the group. They grab your forearm and say, “come with me for a minute”. Excuse me creepy old man, WHY ARE YOU TOUCHING ME? Sigh.

Going back into the stadium I got asked by many men to take a picture with them. So weird. First of all, I am not a celebrity. Second of all, is that an iphone? Second mini culture shock. Once you take one picture, everyone wants one with you. I learned that the hard way. BUT we ended up winning the game (which was against Swaziland) 3-1 I believe. Overall, the experience was amazing. We all had a blast, and I am so glad we got to experience how sports are viewed live. Also there are videos to come on facebook. Possibly tomorrow, but we shall see.