The Saint Lucia Football Association Inc. (SLFA) had a packed weekend of activities, combining football development initiatives with a significant observance of International Women’s Day. The association hosted events at multiple venues, emphasizing the importance of women and girls in football.
Celebrating Women and Girls in Football
On Saturday, the SLFA organized three major activities across the island:
1. La Fargue, Choiseul Playing Field: A special ceremony was held featuring seven Under-14 girls’ teams. The event, which started at 10:30 a.m., highlighted the role of women and girls in football. Eight-year-old Sarah James from the Choiseul Under-14 Girls Team delivered the welcome remarks, while Choiseul District Representative Hon. Bradley Felix also addressed the gathering.
The keynote speaker, Ms. Emaline Hunte, Chair of the Women’s Football Task Force, spoke about the opportunities football provides for young girls, emphasizing its role in developing decision-making and coping skills. A key moment of the ceremony saw one player from each Under-14 team recite a pledge to play fairly and uphold the rules of the game. The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Ms. Chermaline Albert, President of the Choiseul Football League, before four scheduled Under-14 Girls Championship matches kicked off.
2. Women Referee Development Training: Eight women referees participated in a training program led by instructors Ms. Leanna Wallace and Mr. Ashley Duncan at the Grand Riviere, Mabouya Valley Secondary School. The initiative is part of the SLFA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the pool of women referees and attract more women to the profession.
3. Safeguarding Workshop for Coaches: Ms. Raejean Montoute, SLFA’s Safeguarding Officer, conducted a workshop for 20 coaches at the SLFA Headquarters. The session was part of the association’s plan to ensure all national and club coaches receive training in safeguarding. Additionally, the SLFA is finalizing its Safeguarding Policy with FIFA’s assistance.
SLFA’s Continued Commitment to Women’s Football
SLFA President Lyndon Cooper delivered an official message over the weekend, reaffirming the association’s commitment to supporting women in football. He highlighted SLFA’s ongoing efforts to revamp the National Women’s Football Program and ensure greater participation and opportunities for female athletes.
Through these initiatives, the SLFA continues to champion the growth of women’s football in Saint Lucia, empowering young girls and women to excel both on and off the field.
All photos by SLFA