Super Stars defender wins two top awards in Winneba
Versatile defender of Sirigu Super Stars, Paul Ato-epaam Ayidiya has demonstrated his sportsmanship prowess by scooping two top awards in the recently held Association of Students of English (ASSENS) of the University for Education, Winneba awards night.
The defender beat competitions from four others to scoop two top honours as he emerged as the Best Sports Personality of the Year and Most Outstanding Sports Personality of the Year.
A level 300 student of English in the school, Paul Ayidiya who formerly also played for Paga-based Division 2 side Paga FC and is currently attached to Division 3 club Sirigu Super Stars has been nicknamed Virgil van Dijk by peers for his proactiveness, game reading abilities and tactful play in front of the goalkeeper.
Speaking to myactiveonline reporter, Paul Ayidiya stated the recognition is a push for him to work harder and he is now even more keen to get higher; a desire that he says can only be achieved through persistent hard work.
“Yes, I feel very proud and motivated to work harder to achieve more. These awards rather make me more hungry for more which requires that I work harder. I know I am a winner when I compete well in any competition. These kinds of wins started way back in my JHS days, my SHS days, and my College days, and now here,” he explained.
Though a trained teacher, having completed the St. John Bosco’s College of Education in Navrongo, the utility player who often plays as a centre-back said his dream is to join one of Ghana’s security services one day and he hopes that his outstanding display in sports will lead him there.
“It is my prayer that these awards and many more to come will propel me to higher heights. I pray through this that my childhood dreams come to pass. Security services such as the Immigration Service, the Army, Prisons Service and Police are what I desire to be in and I dream and pray with faith to serve my country in this way one day.”
The tall and speedy defender has been celebrated for his ability to win aerial duels, and organize and control play. His leadership skills on and off the pitch have been key in his outstanding performances in the sport and have endeared him to the hearts of teammates, coaches and fans in the teams he has played in.
