In the ever-evolving landscape of Ghanaian football, especially within the bustling Greater Accra Region, a fresh powerhouse is quietly but confidently making its mark. The John Paintsil Football Academy (JPFA), founded by former Black Stars stalwart John Paintsil on June 15, 2021, is swiftly becoming a name to watch.
Established in East Legon, Accra, the academy began its journey competing in the Ga East District Division Three League. But for Paintsil and the club’s president, Madam Florencia Paintsil, the ambition didn’t stop there. Staying true to the academy’s vision — “Sustaining the quality of Ghanaian footballers to excel both locally and internationally” — the leadership made a decisive move by acquiring FC RAISA, a Division Two club formerly owned by Paintsil’s ex-national teammate, Awudu Issaka.
With a new identity and a bold motto, “WE ARE FEARLESS”, the rebranded side entered the Greater Accra Division Two League and stunned followers with a commanding performance in Zone 5. Dominating the competition, JPFA emerged as champions of their zone with 71 points and netting an impressive 63 goals while conceding just 27. Their stellar campaign secured them a spot in the prestigious 2024/25 GARFA/SOCCABET Division Two Middle League.
The club’s ambition is clear: within five years, JPFA aims to win the Ghana Premier League and represent the nation in the CAF Champions League. At the heart of this journey is John Paintsil, a UEFA/CAF B License holder coaching the club and team captain Leonard Kokose, whose leadership and vision will be crucial in the academy’s push for promotion.
Equally important are the academy’s standout talents, including top scorer Caleb Opoku Kwarteng — who recorded 15 goals in 30 matches — and rising star Collins Adoesom, a player tipped to play a pivotal role in the club’s future success.
Fans and pundits alike are eagerly anticipating JPFA’s next challenge, as they prepare to lock horns with fellow zonal giants Asanska FC, Zone 5 contenders Tema United, and Zone 2 champions A5 Rences in Group B of the upcoming GARFA/Soccabet Middle League.
For those eager to follow the journey of Ghana’s newest football sensation, visit www.johnpaintsilfootballacademy.com or follow John Paintsil Football Academy on Facebook and Instagram.
The rise of JPFA is more than just a football story — it’s a testament to vision, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Watch this space — Ghanaian football may never be the same again.
