The Ghana Military Academy has held an inter-platoon novices boxing competition for cadets of Short Service Commission and Special Duties (SSC/SD) Intake 61 from Thursday, 10 to Friday, 11 October 2024, at Whistler Barracks in Teshie.

The boxing competition saw all cadets, both male and female, battling for their various platoons, with Burma Platoon being adjudged the overall winners with 41 points. Chiringa and Abyssinia platoons won second and third positions, respectively.

The nights witnessed 30 keenly contested bouts in three weight categories: lightweight, bantamweight, and welterweight. The competition was conducted according to the International Amateur Boxing Association (IABA) rules.

The Guest of Honour, Brigadier General Alfred Issah Wuni (Rtd), in his address, described the novices’ boxing competition as an exercise for cadets to learn how to stand their ground in the face of aggression, carry on when tired or hurt, and keep their heads up when circumstances threaten to overwhelm them.

He noted that the event was not intended to produce accomplished boxers but to teach cadets how to overcome adversity, fear, and pain. He also emphasized that the competition was not meant to equip them with skills to unleash brutality on innocent civilians, but rather to protect civilians and for self-defense.

Brigadier General Wuni commended the cadets for exhibiting hard work, dedication, and resilience throughout the competition. He expressed satisfaction with the good display of mental fortitude, resilient spirit, courage, and self-defense, particularly praising the female officer cadets for their impressive boxing skills.

Awards were presented to cadets who distinguished themselves. Flight Cadet Ampofo Barbara Afia from Burma Platoon and Officer Cadet Marfo Jean Judith from Abyssinia Platoon won the Gallant Loser and Best Female Boxer awards, respectively. Flight Cadet Kagbeto Nathaniel from Burma Platoon was adjudged the Best Boxer. All award winners received certificates of merit and trophies.