Aston Villa supporters are well-known around the world for their unapologetic loveΒ towards the team they support. We are a proud lot that are eager to show off our passion by proudly wearing our football shirts around the world. This is no different in Ghana.
This is the story of Ghana’s most enthusiastic Villa supporters.
THE BACKSTORY
A young man falls in love with a team after being introduced to it by his grandfather – It’s a story that many people may relate to. I recall hearing stories about the mighty Paul McGrath and wanting nothing more than to visit Villa Park. Owusu Francis, who was raised in Juaben, was no exception!
Owusu is one of the most passionate Villa supporters I’ve ever spoken to. Owusu founded the Ghana Lions in 2010, and the organisation has now grown to over 1000 members. I spoke with Owusu to learn more about the incredible Ghana Lions.
What was it about Aston Villa that made you fall in love with the club?
“My grandfather introduced me to Aston Villa when I was a child. When we were kids, he used to tell us stories about a certain player named God God God, so one day we went to him and asked him, Grandfather, who is that God in football you have been talking about every day, and he mentioned the name Paul McGrath. So we’ve been cheering for Aston Villa since we were kids. So in our village, it’s all about Villa, Villa, Villa till we die. Our grandfather has died, but we continue to do what he used to do with us”.
Owusu Francis
When was the birth of the Ghana Lions?
“We started the Ghana Lions in the year 2010“.
Owusu Francis
Whatβs been your favourite moment whilst supporting the Villa?
“My favourite moment was whenΒ we came back up and survived from relegation zone”.Β
Owusu Francis
Who are your favourite Villa players?
“My favourite Villa Players areΒ Tyrone Mings and Super John McGinn“.
Owusu Francis
GOING VIRAL!
The Ghana Lions gathered a large following thanks to their famous chant βWe Donβt Know…………β showing just how much theyβre committed to Aston Villa.
The videos caught the attention of two former Villa Captains, Tyrone Mings and Jack Grealish. Both made charitable contributions in order to bring the Ghana Lions to the Holte End. They’re now seeking funds for something far more vital.
SO HOW CAN YOU HELP?
The Tyrone Mings Academy and Nathan Dawe have joined up with the Ghana Lions to raise funds to improve children’s education and chances in Ghana.
Notably, the amazingly talent @jodielouiseart has raised over Β£2000 for this amazing cause.Β
Help your fellow Aston Villa fans by donating whatever you can to the cause, no matter how small. To donate, use the link below to Jodie’s Just Giving Page!
https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/holteendghanalions
If you canβt donate, you can still help! Drop the Ghana Lions a follow on Twitter @AvfcGhana and share this article to spread the word. Thank you and Up The Villa!
AUTHOR | ELLIS BURNETT
Author’s UTV PODCAST archive ellisburnett – UTV Podcast | An Aston Villa Blog
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