Ghana Dolphins made a major splash at the National Aquatic Centre in Borteyman, surging to a historic second consecutive Ghana Swim League (GSL) title — this time powered by the club’s formidable women’s team at the season finale, aptly dubbed the “Swim of Champions”.
Driven by an outstanding performance from their female swimmers, the Dolphins dominated the competition, securing an impressive 38 gold, 22 silver, and 11 bronze medals. Their overall tally of 361 points comfortably sealed the title and saw them retain the trophy they captured last season.
The Dolphins finished more than 70 points clear of last season’s runners-up, Marlins, who placed second with 289.5 points. Legon Swimming Club came in third with 254 points.
Although the Dolphins’ men’s team finished a modest fourth in their division with 121 points — behind Legon (244), Marlins (214.5), and GH Aquatic Masters (123) — it was the women who rose magnificently to the occasion. The Dolphins’ female contingent amassed an astonishing 234 points, far ahead of GH Aquatic Masters (111), Marlins (45), and Legon (38), ultimately clinching the overall championship for the club.
The champions took home a giant trophy along with a cash prize of GH¢5,000 for their successful title defence — a first in the young history of the Ghana Swim League.
Marlins, the inaugural winners in 2023, were unable to reclaim their crown despite a strong medal haul of 69 medals (26 gold, 22 silver, 21 bronze). They received a cash prize of GH¢3,000 for their second-place finish.
Legon, who excelled in the men’s division, ended the campaign with 65 medals (28 gold, 19 silver, 18 bronze), earning GH¢1,500 in prize money.
Individual Honours
The competition also celebrated standout individual achievements. Michael Crabbe-Mann of Marlins was named Best Male Athlete after securing 90 points, courtesy of 13 gold and two silver medals.
He shared the spotlight with Ghana Dolphins’ Oduma Agyei, also aged 15, who dazzled with 15 individual gold medals and multiple relay victories. Her efforts earned her 98 points and the Best Female Athlete award. Both young swimmers were rewarded with GH¢2,000 each.
Growing the Sport
Launched in October 2022, the Ghana Swim League has swiftly established itself as the premier platform for competitive swimming in the country. It offers opportunities for male and female swimmers aged eight and above to participate in over 15 individual and relay events across six meets from October to April.
The top eight swimmers in each age category qualify for the grand finale — the “Meet of Champions”.
From its modest beginnings with seven clubs and 150 swimmers in Season One, the league has expanded significantly. This season featured over 450 athletes representing 15 clubs from the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Western regions, underlining its rapid growth and national appeal.