The Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation has a new General Secretary.
Sheldon Phillips on Thursday began his tenure, taking over from former General Secretary Richard Groden who vacated office last week after serving since 1998.
TTFF President Raymond Tim Kee expressed his satisfaction with the selection of Phillips which was also passed by the T&T Football Federation Executive Committee at a meeting on Wednesday evening.
There is a strong belief in the Federation that Phillips “has a strong football understanding and is one who can oversee the broad business of the Football Federation”.
Phillips has distinctive managerial expertise in the administrative field. His appointment is regarded as a major step towards restoring faith in the federation. He also had a successful spell in sports management in the United States and other parts of the globe.
His role with the TTFF will include managing key external relationships, particularly with other local and international bodies as well as various stakeholders and partners.
On his appointment, Tim Kee stated: “With my vision for a new beginning for Trinidad and Tobago football and the heights to which I want to see our football reach, I had and continue to look at engaging in the kind of human resource that I believe will assist in taking us there. As a result I believe my selection of Sheldon Phillips is most fitting to the cause and one which we are extremely satisfied and excited over.
“We have been greatly impressed by the work that Sheldon has done in the past in football. We are confident that in appointing him as General Secretary of the TTFF will provide strong leadership and stability.
“I looked at the marketplace and the landscape,” added Tim Kee who had last December said he would consider advertising the position. “But along the way if you have met an individual who has met the profile that suits your vision and organization, then there is no need to advertise anymore.
“I thought also with his legal background and the leverage he enjoys in getting things done on a global stage would be a major asset. You must begin with then end in mind and my end is getting Trinidad and Tobago back to being among the top nations in CONCACAF and to highly respectable position in world football. With those goals and objectives in mind, I believe Sheldon is the ideal person to work along with me and the rest of the Federation in going about achieving all of this,” Tim Kee added.
US Soccer President and recently elected FIFA Vice President Sunil Gulati holds Phillips in high regards having worked with him dating back to 1992.
"I have known Sheldon for over 20 years when we first worked together on US Cup '92. He is resourceful and results driven. As the General Secretary, the TTFF will certainly benefit from his experience in the game,” Gulati said.
Phillips also holds a law degree from Samford University in Birmingham, AL and leveraged his legal training to acquire administrative experience working within charitable organizations, professional sports player associations, and minor league franchises.
Most recently, he collaborated through his agency, Element Agency + Events, with James Grant Sports and the Baltimore Ravens to manage the promotions and sales for the successful Baltimore, Maryland leg of the Liverpool and Tottenham Football Clubs American Tour.
Phillips eager to get the ball rolling
Together with Mr. Tim Kee and the TTFF, I will do everything in my power and ability to help lead this organization with grace and dignity; never forgetting our role and obligation to serve as stewards of a game we cherish; for a nation we love,” the 46-year-old Phillips told TTFF Media.
Our organization will be zealous in our activism and advocacy of all things football-related in Trinidad and Tobago because we are keenly aware of the power of the game and how it shapes lives both on and off the field of play. I am humbled at the opportunity,” added Phillips who was also instrumental in the settlement discussions with the 2006 World Cup players as well as the acquiring of a new kit deal (that will be announced shortly) and the setting up of international matches against Peru, Belize, Romania and Estonia.
A Profile of Sheldon Phillips
With over 25 years in the sports and event management industry, Sheldon Phillips brings a depth of knowledge, experience, and relationships through his work with FIFA, CONCACAF, and U.S. Soccer among others.
In addition to his administrative work in football, Phillips gained federal and local government experience working as a Legislative Assistant and advisor for California Congressman, Howard L. Berman on matters pertaining to: health care, social security, and budget legislation. While working for the District of Columbia Government Public Housing Phillips led a multi million dollar sports program for public housing youth that would become the inspiration for the highly acclaimed America Scores program.
Phillips also holds a law degree from Samford University in Birmingham, AL and leveraged his legal training to acquire administrative experience working within charitable organizations, professional sports player associations, and minor league franchises.
Most recently, he collaborated through his agency, Element Agency + Events, with James Grant Sports and the Baltimore Ravens to manage the promotions and sales for the successful Baltimore, Maryland leg of the Liverpool and Tottenham Football Clubs American Tour.
"I can think of no stronger advocate for Trinidad and Tobago football than Sheldon. Now that he is poised to play a substantive role within the national governing body, T&T is better positioned to become a destination for some of the top clubs in the world." Charlie Stillitano, CEO , RSE Ventures
Brief Overview
External Affairs Director,
Washington DC Venue
1994 FIFA World Cup
Competition Director,
Birmingham, AL Venue
1996 Atlanta Olympic Summer Games
Event Manager and Producer
Los Angeles and Anaheim Venue
1995 CONCACAF Gold Cup
General Manager
Chesapeake Athletic PDL
United Soccer Leagues
Event Manager
TTFF 2005 Winter Combine
Program Manager
1998 CONCACAF Goalkeeping Coaching Workshop
Legal Associate
NFL Players Association
MLS Players Association