Supporters’ Coordinator clarifies his mandate and expectations

By: Jerome Otchere, Kumasi

Barely two months after the Supporters’ Coordinator’s office was created and with a highly qualified person put in-charge, some Kotoko fans appear to be confusing George Amponsah-Duodu’s duties or responsibilities with that of the Circles' leadership.

Indeed not many Kotoko supporters are even aware that the man in question is a staunch member of the Porcupine family.

Speaking to Kotoko Express in an interview last week, George Amponsah-Duodu first talked about his passion for football which started in his childhood days.

“I have always loved football and Kotoko for that matter. Back at Kumasi High School, I was the School’s Team Manager between 1983 and 1984. I combined my duties and academic work efficiently. I know the rudiments of football well”.

“Not until 2007 when I asked for leave to attend to some private issues, I was involved in the activities of the Ashanti Regional Circles. I accepted this work knowing what I can offer” George Amponsah-Duodu explained.

Moving on to the substantive issue, the Supporters’ Coordinator disclosed that galvanising support for Kotoko at any level is dear to the heart of the board and management and that, they greatly appreciate the role of the Circles that is why he has been mandated to coordinate the activities of the Circles and Kotoko supporters at large.

“We must mobilise funds and the necessary resources to develop the club” he stated.

He says the presence of the Circles’ chief, Bernard Akwasi Xiel, on the board was not for nothing, but demonstrates the fact that the leadership of the club cannot do anything without the involvement, support and contributions of the Circles.

“The Circles are doing their best. My role is to complement their effort. There is more that we can do as a team. I am to robe in supporters outside the Circles as well. They would have to contribute financially because we cannot rely solely on gate proceeds” he added.

George Amponsah-Duodu, who has started work in earnest is drawing plans and outlining strategies to ensure effective work to build a data base of supporters to make identification and organisation easy.

“We will be going to financial institutions; the tertiary institutions, the drivers’ unions, etc. There are a lot of Kotoko supporters there who for one reason or the other cannot actively join the Circles. However, these people are willing to contribute financially to the success of club and we can assure them that their contributions will be put to effective use”.

The Supporters’ Coordinator could not be specific as to what number of people have been targeted saying, “The sky is our limit. Kotoko supporters are many. They should feel proud and be receptive when we come. I expect the spirit of reciprocity. I have been successful with everything I touch and I am positive that a successful story will be told with this too” he ended.