PPFC Player Ryko Kristiansen Experiences Soccer in Togo, Africa

Visiting PPFC Director Ramo’s Home Country

Ryko Kristiansen (08B) had never traveled outside the U.S. until this past January, when he spent three weeks in Togo, Africa. After seeing pictures of another player visiting Director Ramo’s home country, Ryko wanted to experience Togo for himself. 

Small-Sided Games on Dirt Fields

The first week of his visit, Ryko played several small-sided, informal soccer games. “You definitely cannot be mentally soft in Togo,” he stated. 

He explained that the soccer fields were pure dirt with rocks kicked out of the way, and players ranging in age from 8 to 20 competed together. He had to adjust to a much faster speed of play, as well as fouling that was “five times more intense.” 

“But the kids were all cool and friendly,” Ryko quickly clarified.  

PPFC Donations Put to Use 

Later in his trip, Ryko trained for a U17 tournament that had been organized and sponsored by PPFC. It was held on his last day in Togo. 

At the tournament, Ryko noticed several guys wearing kits donated by PPFC families. Many also wore donated cleats, although unfortunately, these cleats now had huge holes from heavy use.  

“I ended up giving my cleats to a guy I felt was the best player on my team,” Ryko said. 

Togo Skill and Intensity

When it came to the players’ soccer skills, Ryko observed that the dirt fields and donated gear didn’t seem to matter. He felt that in general, the level of play was much higher in Togo than in the United Sates.  “We would probably be mercy-ruled if these guys had the same resources as us and we played them,” Ryko assessed. 

After taking in some passionate cheers and even a few “boos” from fans attending the tournament to watch their favorite local players, Ryko said he also learned that in Togo, youth soccer isn’t viewed as a hobby. It’s a means to an end. Kids play with extreme intensity, hoping soccer will help them get out of town and out of the country. They want to create a new future. 

Making a New Friend

Off the soccer field, Ryko especially appreciated a new friendship with Chonain, one of his tournament teammates. 

“Chonain made a point of getting to know me and showing me around,” Ryko said. “He really seemed to want to spend time with me and didn’t just want to make a buck off me as an American, like some of the other guys.” 

Ryko explained that he and Chonain continue to keep in touch through texts, and Chonain’s goal is to save enough money for a reciprocal visit to the U.S. 

Make the Trip and Pack Pepto

When asked if he would recommend that other PPFC players make the trip to Togo, Ryko said yes, if given the opportunity. 

“The soccer was great and I would go back again to see Chonain and the other guys,” he stated. However, Ryko added that the experience isn’t for everyone. It’s important to do some research and prepare for cultural differences – including the possibility of being served “fufu,” sticky rice with cow stomach. 

“If you do visit Togo with Ramo, bring Pepto,” Ryko concluded. “It’s your best friend.”