Former Ghana international John Paintsil has paid a touching tribute to the late Alhaji Sly Tetteh following his club’s championship win in the Greater Accra Division Two League Zone 5.
John Paintsil FC, which was officially crowned champions on Saturday at the Adjiringanor AstroTurf, used the occasion to honour the memory of Alhaji Sly Tetteh — the legendary football administrator and founder of Liberty Professionals, where Paintsil’s rise to prominence started.
In a symbolic gesture of appreciation and remembrance, players and officials of John Paintsil FC proudly displayed shirts and flyers bearing the inscription: “The Pride of Alhaji Sly Tetteh,” accompanied by a bold image of the late football icon.
Sly Tetteh played a pivotal role in shaping the early career of John Paintsil, mentoring and guiding him through the ranks at Liberty Professionals before his eventual move abroad.
Paintsil went on to have a distinguished career, representing top English clubs such as West Ham United, Fulham FC, and Leicester City, as well as earning over 80 caps for the Ghana national team.
Speaking after the coronation ceremony, Paintsil explained the motivation behind the tribute:
“Alhaji Sly Tetteh played an instrumental role in my life and football career. I would not be where I am today without his belief and mentorship. Dedicating this victory to him is the least I could do to honour his legacy.”
The club has since adopted “The Pride of Alhaji Sly Tetteh” as its official slogan, serving both as a tribute and a guiding philosophy rooted in discipline, vision, and youth development — values Sly Tetteh stood for throughout his lifetime.
The emotional homage added deeper meaning to the club’s triumph, resonating strongly within Ghana’s football community and serving as a reminder of the lasting impact of Alhaji Sly Tetteh on the sport in the country.
