The influence Ronaldo has on people, Cadman Yamoah will have same on the next generation – Coach Goodwin

High jump coach Christopher Goodwin believes Cadman Evans Yamoah, the champion of the men's high jump at the African Games 2023, has the potential to inspire the next generation of track and field athletes, much like football icon Cristiano Ronaldo influences the youth.

“I dare say that the influence that Cristiano Ronaldo has on people,” Goodwin says in an interview with JoySports.

“I think that's the influence that Cadman will have on this next generation of track and field athletes or track and field in Africa,” he stated.

Cadman Yamoah soared to victory with a stunning leap of 2.23m, clinching the gold medal for Ghana at the African Games held in Accra last month.

The 23-year-old unleashed his own rendition of Ronaldo's ‘siuuuu’ celebration, igniting the stadium as fans cheered in unison.

He would later tell JoySports the Portuguese footballer is his idol, but his coach was lost for a moment.

"I did not expect Cadman to pull that out and do it in that moment," Coach Goodwin remarked, his voice a mixture of surprise and pride.

"But just to hear the whole stadium support him as if they did Cristiano Ronaldo is phenomenal.”

Christopher Goodwin is Cadman's Yamoah coach at the University of Central Missouri, USA.

Cadman's homage to Ronaldo served as a poignant reminder of the influence and inspiration the former Manchester United has beyond the confines of the pitch.

"We always talk about football, but that's all I know,” he continued.  "I think in the moment things just happen, and what just comes out of him...

I dare say that the influence that Cristiano Ronaldo has on people, I think that's the influence that Cadman will have on this next generation of track and field athletes."

The University of Central Missouri student's record-breaking leap not only secured Ghana’s national record in high jump but also showcased his ability to captivate audiences.

Goodwin believes that Cadman has the potential to redefine the landscape of track and field, not only in Ghana but across Africa and beyond.

"You need personalities that liven up the sport, that want to make people come and watch," Coach Goodwin emphasised.

"And I think he can be that next person for not just track and field in Ghana, but track and field in Africa and maybe around the world."

With just 15 months of coaching under Goodwin’s guidance, Cadman has demonstrated remarkable improvement, raising his jumps from 2.11 to 2.23m