Atto Mensah

Atto Mensah is acknowledged as one of the most distinguished Sierra Leonean footballers in history. Originating from Tema, Ghana, Mensah was part of a group of gifted Ghanaian footballers who left a lasting legacy in Sierra Leonean football during the 1980s, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of players. During that period storied football clubs such as East End Lions, Mighty Black Pool, Real Republicans, Ports Authority, and the now-defunct Sierra Fisheries boasted a roster teeming with talented Ghanaian football luminaries in revered figures such as Simon Awuah, Francis Bongoman, the late Philip Buckman, Kofi N’ti, Nana Kofi, Andrew Hooper, Ben Teteh Fio, and others who became beloved figures in Freetown. This influx of talent sparked a surge of interest in the sport, with matches between leading teams drawing massive crowds at the Siaka Stevens Stadium.

Among these talented individuals, Atto Mensah distinguished himself as an unparalleled skillful dribbler and a pivotal player in East End Lions Football Club's success, particularly when paired with prolific goal-scorer Simon Awuah, guiding the team to their inaugural title in 1980. His impact on Sierra Leonean football was so profound that he opted to naturalize in 1987 to represent the country at the international level, notably contributing to the Leone Stars' 2-0 triumph over Nigeria's Green Eagles.

Despite his Ghanaian heritage, Atto Mensah proudly embraces his Sierra Leonean identity, seamlessly immersing himself in the culture speaking Krio fluently as one of the hallmarks of his acculturation.