Hostile Player–Referee Relations Hindering Ghana Football – Aduana FC CEO

Chief Executive Officer of Aduana FC, Collins Atta Poku, has identified strained and “hostile” relationships between players and referees as one of the major challenges facing Ghana football.

Speaking in a media interview, the former sports journalist noted that poor communication from referees often fuels tension on the pitch, leading to frequent verbal confrontations with players.

“Referees are unable to express themselves well to the players on the pitch. So it’s always hostile,” he said.

According to Atta Poku, many players approach matches with the mindset that referees are biased against them, even when decisions are correct.

“The relationship between players on the pitch and the referees is always hostile. Players have this mentality that the referee is cheating them. Even if the referee is doing the right thing, he’s cheating me,” he explained.

He added that referees, in turn, are becoming increasingly frustrated due to constant verbal abuse from players during matches.

“So the referees are also like they’ve had enough of these players verbally abusing them on the pitch and all that,” he stated.

Atta Poku, however, urged referees to take deliberate steps to build healthier relationships with players, stressing that effective communication could significantly reduce disputes and incidents of assault.

“Explain to these boys, communicate with them. When they get injured, be the first to be on the spot. The first thing you say is, calm down. You’ll be fine. I’ve called them [medics] to come,” he advised.

He further encouraged referees to show empathy, especially when players are in pain.

“Whilst you are there, say sweet things to these boys. They are in pain. I tell those who are my friends that, aid these boys when they are playing,” he added.