The Ghanaian football fraternity is reeling from the devastating news of the untimely passing of Romeo Ricky Roy, the esteemed fitness coach of Ghana’s senior male national team. Roy’s sudden demise, which occurred on Sunday, April 28, 2024, has left the football community in shock and mourning.
Details surrounding Roy’s death remain unclear, with the true cause yet to be confirmed. According to reports by Joy Sports, Roy had been unwell and expressed concerns about his health before tragically succumbing to his condition.
Roy’s legacy in Ghanaian football is marked by his remarkable contributions both on and off the field. His rise to prominence came four years ago when he demonstrated extraordinary heroism during a Division One League game between Vision FC and Agbozume. In a moment of crisis, Roy, then with Vision FC, sprang into action to save the life of left-back Benjamin Aloma, who had collapsed on the pitch after a clash of heads. Roy’s quick thinking and decisive actions in administering first aid helped to resuscitate Aloma, earning him widespread admiration and respect.
Following this heroic incident, Roy’s expertise and dedication led to his appointment as a key member of the Black Stars’ backroom staff under the leadership of Milovan Rajevac. He continued to serve as a vital asset to the coaching team, working alongside renowned mentors such as Otto Addo and Chris Hughton. His presence was felt on the international stage, contributing to Ghana’s campaigns at the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup and the recent 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the Ivory Coast.
News of Roy’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes and condolences from across the football community. Yussif Alhassan Chibsah, the PRO for the Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG), expressed his grief, writing, “Ricky Roy Romeo, why soo soon my brother,” on social media platform X.
As Ghana mourns the loss of a dedicated coach and compassionate soul, Roy’s legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on the sport he loved. His absence leaves a void in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will live on as an inspiration to future generations of footballers and coaches alike.
