People and Places

The team used facilities at the University of Hull as part of their training to prepare for the FIFA World Cup, which takes place in China this September.

It’s the first time the Black Queens have qualified for the World Cup and the team are hoping to make a big impression.

"We're preparing very hard," said Black Queens striker Rumanatu Tahiru, "because I know that the World Cup isn't going to be easy.

"Hopefully, this training session will help me to score as many goals as possible in order to raise the name of my country."

It was the Black Queens' first trip to the UK and during their visit; they played and won friendly matches against representative ladies teams from Leeds United and the Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.

Tahiru said Leeds United had put up a good fight: “They're a good side. Their style of play is unique.

“They play together as a team and they are very smart too but I think it was our day and that’s why we won.”

Part of the training included sports science screening, where each player was prescribed a physical conditioning programme.

Black Queens striker Rumanatu Tahiru

The players were also given more information about nutrition, injury prevention, sports psychology and recovery strategies.

“This trip is about increasing the players’ performance and we've been conducting some tests here.” said coach Isaac Pha.

“We're hoping to build on this after we leave.” added the coach.

The trip, which was organised by Matthew Hornshaw from the University of Hull's International Office, came about through an on-going partnership between the Ghana Football Association and the university.

“I first visited the Ghana FA about a year and a half ago as I work in Ghana to recruit for the university.” said Matthew Hornshaw.

“And this trip is a culmination so far of the relationship between the GFA and the University of Hull, in terms of education and research.”

The team were also given a guided tour around the university including the Wilberforce Institute for the study of Slavery and Emancipation, which already has close links with Ghana.