About The Club
From Garden Kickabouts to Community Impact
The Story of Coach Hene Sports Club
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Emmanuel Afranie Jnr., a father of four in the UK, turned to football as a way to bond with his sons, Nana Yaw, Jayden, Hans-Davey, and Michael, while navigating the challenges of lockdown. Their informal kickabouts in the garden not only brought joy to the family but also revealed the hidden talents of his children, particularly four-year-old Hans-Davey.
Inspired by what he saw, Afranie Jnr. invited coach Niall Heywood to assess his sons’ abilities. Heywood, now the Technical Director of the Coach Hene Sports Club, was particularly impressed by Hans-Davey’s talent, which motivated Emmanuel to take his passion further. What began as a family activity quickly evolved into a community initiative as neighbours and friends joined in, creating a growing network of young football enthusiasts.
On 28th June 2020, Emmanuel established the Coach Hene Sports Club, driven by his desire to provide youngsters from deprived areas with an opportunity to stay active and develop their football skills during the restrictions imposed by lockdown.
Since its inception, the club has flourished, attracting attention from Premier League and Football League scouts and offering guidance to aspiring players. The club stands as a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and community spirit during challenging times.
The Story of the Inspiring Legacy of Coach Hene
The Coach Hene Memorial Foundation is a celebration of perseverance, community, and the enduring legacy of the late Coach Emmanuel Kwasi Afranie, a true icon of Ghanaian football. Through this remarkable story, you’ll witness how his achievements have paved the way for the future of grassroots football far beyond Ghana, reaching the heart of Manchester.
This book takes you on a journey of hope, inspiration, and the accidental yet transformative beginnings of a project that continues to change lives.
Ready to own a piece of this inspiring story?