Andy Ly – Developing Basketball in Ghana

When Andy Ly signed up to volunteer with United Through Sport in Ghana, he was looking for more than just a change of scenery. He was hoping to rediscover something that once meant a lot to him: basketball. Over four transformative weeks, Andy immersed himself in the vibrant culture of Ghana, coached young athletes in the community of Teshi, and explored some of the country’s most beautiful regions. What he found was more than just a reconnection with sport—it was a meaningful, eye-opening journey that left a lasting impression.

First Impressions: A World Away From Home

Arriving in Ghana, Andy was immediately struck by how different everything felt from Canada. “It was very different from back home and really hot!” he recalled. But the unfamiliarity wasn’t intimidating—it was invigorating. There was a sense of excitement in the air, and he was eager to experience everything Ghana had to offer. Based in the coastal town of Teshi, Andy quickly found himself immersed in daily life, forming routines, getting to know locals, and navigating a pace of life that was slower and more community-centered than what he was used to.

He made frequent trips into Accra, Ghana’s bustling capital, where he experienced the colorful chaos of city life, sampled local food, and dove deeper into the culture. On weekends, he took trips to Cape Coast—known for its historic forts and beaches—and the Volta Region, a highlight of the trip with its breathtaking waterfalls, lush hikes, and playful monkey sanctuaries.

The Court as a Classroom

Andy’s main role during his time in Ghana was coaching basketball. “It was an opportunity to reconnect with a sport I lost in touch with,” he said. Coaching in Teshi came with its own set of challenges. Facilities and equipment were limited, and he often had to get creative in structuring practices. But instead of being a setback, these limitations turned out to be a powerful learning experience.

“I learned how to structure practices with limited resources,” Andy shared. “It pushed me to be more flexible and thoughtful in how I approached coaching.” Though he was the only basketball coach in his location and sometimes wished for a team to collaborate with, he still found meaning in his work and formed strong bonds with the kids he coached. Watching them grow, improve, and fall in love with the game made every moment on the court worth it.

Building Bonds Beyond Basketball

The social side of Andy’s experience was just as fulfilling as his time on the court. While he was slightly older than most of the other volunteers, that didn’t stop him from connecting. “We got along just fine,” he said. “The locals were also super nice and welcoming.” Whether it was sharing stories with fellow volunteers, learning from the Ghanaian coaches, or simply spending time in the community, Andy found himself surrounded by warmth and kindness.

One of the most memorable aspects of the trip was the weekend adventure to the Volta Region. “The waterfalls, the hike, and the monkey sanctuary—it was all unforgettable,” Andy said. These moments of exploration and discovery added a layer of magic to the experience, helping him see more of Ghana’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness.

Personal Growth and New Perspectives

Volunteering in Ghana wasn’t always easy. The heat, the unfamiliar customs, and the need to adapt constantly were challenging. But these challenges were also what made the experience so rewarding. “Being in an environment that I’m completely unfamiliar with for a month really pushed me out of my comfort zone,” Andy explained. And in doing so, it helped him grow—not just as a coach, but as a person.

The trip reshaped Andy’s perspective on both sport and volunteering. “I definitely want to continue coaching in the future,” he said. The experience reaffirmed the power of sport to build bridges across cultures and create meaningful connections, even with limited resources.

What He’ll Miss Most

When asked what he’ll miss most about the experience, Andy didn’t hesitate: “The people.” The relationships he built—with the kids he coached, the volunteers he shared his journey with, and the locals who welcomed him—left a deep and lasting impact.

Advice for Future Volunteers

Andy’s advice for anyone thinking about volunteering abroad? “Stay open-minded and come prepared.” Volunteering is as much about giving as it is about learning. And when approached with an open heart and mind, it can be truly life-changing.

A Journey Worth Taking

In Andy’s words: “Being in Ghana was an incredible experience where I had the opportunity to reconnect with a sport I lost touch with over the past few years. I loved the country, the people, and being immersed in the culture.” His journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when we step outside our comfort zones and into a world of new experiences, challenges, and growth.