Comfort Akyaa Akuffo
Comfort Akyaa Akuffo is a Ghanaian Physical Education Teacher and sports coaching professional with over six years of experience in the field of physical education and youth sports development. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Coaching Education (Sports) at Ohio University, where she also serves as a Graduate Teaching Associate in Physical Activity and Wellness (PAW). In her academic and instructional roles, she supports fitness training, sports coaching, and wellness education, with a focus on building active, healthy, and engaged learners.
Comfort began her journey as an athlete, an experience that shaped her passion for sports and influenced her decision to become a physical education teacher after completing her education. She has worked extensively with the Ghana Education Service as a Physical Education Teacher and Sports Coach, where she trained high school students across multiple sports, including field hockey, netball, badminton, athletics, and gymnastics. She is deeply committed to helping young people discover their potential through sport and encouraging lifelong participation in physical activity.
As a coach, Comfort is passionate about transforming the lives of young athletes through a holistic approach to training. She integrates both physical and mental preparation into her coaching philosophy, emphasizing structured training programs that support athletes physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. Coming from a male-dominated sporting environment, she is committed to challenging gender barriers in sports and serving as a role model for young girls. Her goal is to become one of the leading field hockey coaches and to inspire the next generation of female athletes to pursue excellence with confidence and determination.
• University of Education,Winneba - BS, Health and Physical Education/Fitness
• Aerobics Instructor and recording -
Lovinghearts Geriatric Care International (NGO)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the way I was raised and the culture I come from. I was always raised to step up, do what I have to do, and just keep going. I was taught to never look back - once it's done, it's done, just move forward. That forward-looking mindset and the perseverance instilled in me from my upbringing have been key to getting me where I am today. I'm also proud of making an impact in my athletes' lives, seeing where they were before and where they got to. Currently, every time I'm done with my course, the feedback I get from my kids keeps me going - they are always looking up to something, they are proud that they joined the course. That positive impact on others is something I'm really proud of and what drives me forward.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would say to them that they shouldn't give up. It's all about perseverance, hard work, and determination that will get them there. Never give up, no matter what. Keep pushing forward with perseverance and determination, and you will reach your goals.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are communication, teamwork, and respect. These values guide everything I do, especially in my work within sports and coaching. Communication is essential for connecting with my athletes and helping them grow. Teamwork is at the heart of what I teach and practice, both on and off the field. And respect is fundamental to how I interact with everyone - my students, my colleagues, and my community. These three values form the foundation of my approach to coaching and to life.
Locations
Ohio University
Athens, OH 45701