The Gambia’s U18 boys’ beach volleyball team secured a historic silver medal at the African Youth Games in Angola, following a narrow defeat to Sierra Leone in the final (21–20, 21–14).
Despite falling short in the gold-medal match, the achievement marks a significant milestone for Gambian volleyball. The silver medal confirms The Gambia’s qualification for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, a major breakthrough for the sport in the country.
A Historic Achievement
Speaking on the qualification, head coach Amadou Jarju described the moment as historic:
“For The Gambia to qualify for the youth Olympics is massive. We have never had this opportunity before. Guiding this team to the Youth Olympics brings me great happiness. After Dakar 2026, our next target will be the senior national team, which has never qualified for the Olympics.”
The U18 development team has enjoyed a remarkable year in 2025, building on previous successes bronze in Algeria, gold in Nigeria, gold in Gambia and now silver in Angola showcasing consistent growth and dominance in African youth beach volleyball.
Squad Changes and Ndoti’s Debut
The tournament also marked a transition within the squad, as Ahmed Ndoti Dampha replaced Ensa Kanyi, who has been promoted to the senior national team.
Ndoti, a Brikama native, plays for YCMA, where he has won a Knockout Trophy and Super Cup. He comes from a volleyball family, with his brother Mario currently featuring for The Gambia’s senior beach volleyball team.
Reflecting on his performance, Ndoti said:
“The performance was perfect. I am really happy and proud of myself. It was tough, but I am playing with my age mates, which makes it easier.”
Coaching Confidence and Player Development
Coach Jarju praised the seamless transition and expressed strong confidence in player selection:
“The decision wasn’t difficult. I know all the players in the country. Even if you ask me to bring three different teams in less than three weeks, I can do it. I was a beach volleyball player for 20 years and played professionally for four years in Qatar.”
He added that Ndoti has already proven his value:
“I know his qualities, and since joining the team, he has been delivering.”
Focus, Technique, and Mentality
According to Jarju, the team’s recent dominance is rooted in discipline and focus:
“Beach volleyball is two aside. They have two players, and we have two players. Focus, respect the opponent, strong service, and effective communication these are the keys.”
Asked about pressure with all eyes on The Gambia, Jarju dismissed any concerns:
“I don’t feel pressure. I enjoy guiding these players. It’s their time to show their talent to the world.”
He also emphasized his winning mentality:
“I am not an average coach. I always think about gold. Even as a player, I aimed for finals.”
Tough Matches and Tactical Brilliance
The final was a Zone II showdown, where The Gambia had previously dominated Sierra Leone, winning their last five final encounters. Although the title defense fell short this time, the match was closely contested.
Jarju highlighted the team’s technical superiority:
“Other teams were more physical, but we were more technical. Our service was more stable, and we focused on our side of the court.”
The semifinal posed a different challenge due to the opponents’ height and powerful spikes, but The Gambia relied on technique and tactical discipline to prevail.
Gambia 2 Mauritius 0 (21-5 21-5)
Gambia 2 Kenya 0 (21-19 21-19)
R16 Gambia 2 Tunisia 0 (21-19 23-21)
QF Gambia 2 Sao Tome & Principe 0
SEMI FINALS Gambia 2 Kenya 0
Finals Gambia 0 Sierra Leone 2 (21-20 21-14)
