CONCACAF Facilitators Aid SLFA in Strengthening Club Licensing Programme

THE Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA) Inc. has acknowledged the significant progress in solidifying the Club Licensing Programme on the island.

From left to Right: Evastus Augustin and Victor Reid (SLFA Officials) Cristhian Tonelli and Leonna Lopex (CONCACAF Facilitators)

A recent intensive workshop led by CONCACAF facilitators, Cristhian Tonelli and Leonna Lopez, has been pivotal in advancing the club licensing programme, ensuring better-organised competitions and uniformity among players and clubs.

With 110 football clubs on the island, SLFA General Secretary Victor Reid emphasised the importance of supporting the second phase of the Club Licensing & Comet programme to help clubs meet the required standards for play. Reid highlighted that the programme has been effective for the SLFA, resulting in better-organised competitions and uniformity among players and clubs.

The programme has not only contributed to the development of clubs but has also enhanced technical skills and administrative operations. Tonelli noted that CONCACAF feels very strongly about the programme as a tool for development, stating, “There are always metrics that can be put in place to keep improving and challenging ourselves.”

Lopez emphasised the positive impact of this exercise on the future development of football in Saint Lucia, noting that it cannot be overstated.

The workshop covered essential topics, including Professional Football Development Initiatives at CONCACAF, the Club Licensing System, and the CONCACAF Caribbean Club Championship, providing valuable insights that will benefit the entire football community.

The facilitators also held a productive meeting with the SLFA Inc. Competitions Department following the workshop.

Additionally, the ongoing SLFA Inc. Women’s football competition and the District League 12 and Under football competition highlight the vibrancy of football on the island. The SLFA stresses the importance of continuing to support and promote these initiatives, as they play a crucial role in fostering the growth of football at all levels. Together, let’s celebrate the progress and look forward to the continued success of football in Saint Lucia.

Meanwhile, the SLFA Inc. Women’s football competition kicked off this week with a doubleheader at the Phillip Marcellin Grounds in Vieux Fort.

Canaries defeated Desruisseaux 3–0 with goals from Cassandra Shepherd in the 29th minute, Theona Auguste in the 45th minute, and Theon Auguste in the 65th minute. In the other game, Vieux Fort South defeated Dennery 2–0, with goals from Kyra Louis in the 18th minute and Freegeanne Joseph in the 53rd minute.

The SLFA Inc. Under 12 football competition weekend fixtures are as follows: