Former Ghanaian best referee LO Laryea passes away

He died at the age of 75. “ Indeed, with a heavy heart, I confirm that my father, passed away this morning at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital,” Mr David Laryea, his son confirmed to Graphic Sportsonline

His death is a big loss to the Ghanaian football fraternity- he has served in various roles, from the actual refereeing to managerial roles in refereeing following his retirement.

In 1991, he was honoured by the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) as the Best Referee.

He became the Chairman of the Referees Association of Ghana (RAG) and held the role for close to a decade and ended his tenure in 2011.

In 2012, Mr Laryea was appointed the Refereeing Manager at the Ghana Football Association (GFA), a role he played until December 2017, when he decided to step down.

Tributes have already started pouring in for L.O Laryea after his demise.

His son David Laryea who is also a referee indicated that he is saddened by his father’s death and eulogized L. O’s legacy in refereeing.

LO Laryea Pulse Ghana

Ref David Laryea told the Graphic Sportsonline that his father’s death was sad but it was inevitable.

“The entire family are so heartbroken over his death. It was unexpected as he was sick for only some few days. We didn’t think he would be gone so soon, but death is inevitable and so we accept that it’s God’s way.

“We can be proud of what he achieved in the sport and how he has inspired generations after him,” Mr Laryea said.

The Technical Director of the GFA, Francis Oti Akenten, choked on his tears as he spoke to the Graphic Sportsonline, saying he had lost his best friend.

“I have lost a man I respected so much who became my best friend and big brother. We met just last week and we spoke after that. I can’t believe he’s gone. May his gentle soul respect in peace,” Coach Oti said of the man with whom he shared the same office for six years during his time as GFA Refereeing Manager.