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1

Football / Re: Thread for the 2013 CFU Club Championship.

« on: Yesterday at 03:15:58 PM »

Another positive for Morvant-Laventille –
Caledonia qualifies for 2013-2014 CONCACAF Champions’ League.
ttproleague.com.

Caledonia AIA of Morvant-Laventille on Wednesday qualified for its second consecutive CONCACAF Champions’ League after wrapping up a two-match play-off against Jamaican club Portmore United with a 3:2 aggregate score.

On Monday, Caledonia defeated Portmore 1-0 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in the First Leg with striker Jamal Gay netting the winner in the 27th minute.

And after hard-fought a 2-2 draw in the Second Leg on Wednesday night at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Caledonia joined TT Pro League compatriot DIRECTV W Connection and Haitian club Valencia SC as the Caribbean representatives in the 2013-2014 CCL which begins in July.

“I think it’s a big moment for the community of Morvant-Laventille and Trinidad and Tobago,” said Caledonia AIA Technical Director Jamaal Shabazz. “…because we get to showcase on a bigger stage against North American teams … against Central American teams, and teams (from) Mexico.

“I think it’s an important moment for us to get the opportunity to prepare for higher level opponents, even as administrators and technical people to move that step up.”

He added, “The fact that W Connection and Caledonia qualified, it shows some level of consistency, not just by these two teams, but by the (TT Pro) League. There is a lot of criticism to the League but there must be something that we are doing right to come out of the Caribbean, two seasons consecutively.”

Caledonia, who won the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Championship last season, recently wrapped up its domestic Digicel Pro League championship with a creditable second position finish, and also retained the First Citizens Cup and FA Trophy this season.

Last season the Caledonia AIA football club debuted in the CCL and was potted with MLS outfit Seattle Sounders and Honduran club CD Marathon in Group 4. Caledonia finished at the bottom with just one point behind Marathon (4 points) while Sounders ran away group leaders with 12 points.

“Last time we didn’t have time to prepare because of the way the tournament was structured,” explained Shabaaz, who has been joint-head coach of the Trinidad and Tobago Senior Team since December and is also in the process of preparing the Warriors for summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.

“But on this occasion we have seven weeks to prepare. (Our) guys are going to get three weeks off because they’ve had a long season since last year. And now we are looking at a seven-week preparation period.

It’s a lot like preparing the national team because we are going to meet the best club teams in the Concacaf region, and seven weeks will give us enough time to raise the level. Of course get one or two new players in, if the (finances) permit it, and get good fitness.”

The draw for the 2013-2014 CCL is scheduled for June 3, which gives Caledonia a bit of time to celebrate a rewarding and adventurous season.

Caledonia opened the scoring in just the 13th minute on Wednesday when winger Nathan Lewis capitalized on a slip-up by goalkeeper Kemar Foster.

Lewis had a burst towards the area, but a touch too heavy saw the ball ran away. Then what seemed a simple take for Foster just inside the 18-yard area was spilled by the Portmore goalie and Lewis was quick to respond hitting through Foster and defender Adrian Reid to find the back of the net.

And three minutes later, striker Jamal Gay stuck wide of Foster’s far post as Caledonia looked in control.

But Portmore with two changes from Monday’s starting line-up—forward Andrew Lewis and midfielder Stephen Williams in place of Bryan Bayliss and Cleon Price—were not about to give up.

In the 31st minute a dangerous Williams’ cross from the left was spilled by Caledonia goalie Glenroy Samuel, but defender Kareem Joseph was sharp in clearing the ball to safety.

Caledonia had an opening two minutes later from an Andre Toussaint corner, but midfielder Akim Armstrong headed directly at Foster who made an easy gather.

But after dominating the first period, the Caledonia players were just a shadow of themselves in the second period—similar to their 1-0 performance in the First Leg.

“I think tired legs after a long season,” was the diagnosis of Shabaaz. “… and I think guys wanting it to finish [the game] before it’s done. It forced us to go to the bench and a lot of scary moments in the dying stages of the game. But this will always be when you have tired legs coming from a long season and I think it took its toll on us today (Wednesday).

“But if we had scored our chances earlier in the game, we may have made it a lot easier.

“But still we had some hard work. People like Jamal Gay showing good work ethic and quality, and also Densill Theobald. So all in all, while at times it was scary, I thought we had enough chances to win the game comfortably.”

Just three minutes into the second period, Williams had a powerful crack at goal from distance, which flashed just high of Glenroy Samuel’s crossbar but more importantly sending a warning to Caledonia.

Then in the 55th minute Caledonia attacker Andre Tousssaint had a great opportunity to make it an uphill challenge for Portmore, but instead he struck his effort directly at Foster from the centre of the area.

It was from a cross by Gay on the left that slipped past two Portmore defenders to find Toussaint with the goalkeeper at his mercy.

End to end the action flowed. Trevol Smith forcing a low save out of Samuel with his strike from distance in the 58th minute.

Samuel was later beaten in the 61st minute as Portmore leveled the scores 1-1.

A solo run by Williams bursting past a handful of Caledonia players, ended with the midfielder slipping a strike past Samuel and into the net.

Caledonia’s advantage was restored by the 68th minute for a 2-1 score when midfielder Keyon Edwards—only three minutes on the pitch after replacing Toussaint—smashed a strike past Foster.

Then the Jamaicans were back in the game, 2-2, when Andrew Vanzie unleashed a low strike from distance to fit the ball just inside the upright of Samuel’s goal in a play which started near the corner flag following a giveaway by Lewis.

Portmore’s Foster preserved the 2-2 score-line with saves in the 77th and 80th minute. First the goalie superbly palmed away a glancing header by Nuru Abdallah Muhammad from a Theobald freekick, and then Foster tamed substitute Vurlon Mills’ effort.

Then six minutes from time, Portmore goalscorer Williams thought he won his side a penalty when he went down inside the area, suggesting to Cuban referee Marco Brea Despaigne that he was hacked down by goalkeeper Samuel.

But to Williams’ frustrations, Despaigne who raced into the area, choked on the whistle.

“(Portmore) showed that Jamaican football has evolved,” said Shabazz. “Twenty years ago Jamaica was kick and look, and just aggression. Now you can see them putting passes together.

I think if this was a team playing in the TT Pro League, as (Caledonia coach) Jerry Moe said, they would be one, two, three or four. So it’s a good quality team. They kept the ball well … they have good strength … good fitness and I think it was never going to be an easy task for us although we were playing the two games at home.”

The Caledonia Technical Director further explained that it was Portmore’s decision to play both legs in Trinidad to reduce costs.

“They(Portmore) made the offer, so that we had to pay the accommodation, meals and internal transport. It cost us cheaper but it also cost them cheaper as well. So it was a win-win situation for the both groups. But we still have the bills to pay, so we are hoping that sponsors will come forward.

We may have to go and wash the dishes in Cascadia Hotel to pay the bills, but generally we were happy that it was done like that. I think we treated (Portmore) well. Although we were very combative on the field of play, we developed a good relationship, so much, that a couple of their players have shown interest in coming over to play with us.”

Shabazz admitted that playing both legs of the play-off in Trinidad served as an advantage to Caledonia.

“I think it was a huge advantage for us,” he shared. “…because of the timing at the end of the season. I think we were better prepared playing at home. I think (a) game in Jamaica [would have been] very difficult. I think even from a refereeing standpoint, at home you tend to get the 50/50 calls. The crowd in Jamaica is a very participative and aggressive crowd. ...if there is a hard way and an easy way, you do it the easy way. And I was happy for the easy way this time,” ended Shabazz.

CONCACAF Champions’ League qualifying Second Leg Play-Off

Caledonia AIA 2—2 Portmore United
Nathan Lewis 13’, Keyon Edwards 68’  ;  Stephen Williams 61’, Andrew Vanzie 74’

Teams

Caledonia AIA—Glenroy Samuel, Stephan David (capt.) Aubrey David, Nuru Abdullah Muhammad (Yellow Card), Colin Nelson, Kareem Joseph, Andre Toussaint (Keyon Edwards 65th), Akim Armstrong (Vurlon Mills 80th), Densill Theobald, Jamal Gay, Nathan Lewis.

Unused substitutes—Shemel Louison, Abdallah Phillips, Nical Stephens, Akeem Thomas, Miguel Alejandro Romeo 79th).

Coach—Jamaal Shabazz.

Portmore United—Kemar Foster, Adrian Reid (capt.), Rosario Harriot, Upston Edwards, Andre Lewis (Bryan Bayliss 70th), Andrew Vanzie (Yellow Card), Stephen Williams (Yellow Card), Trevol Smith, Paul Wilson (Cleon Price 78th), Ewan Grandison, Sue Lae Mc Calla (Ryan Willington 85th).

Unused Substitutes—Carlloyd Walters, Rickcardo Harriot, Damion Minns, Adoah Nickle.

Coach—Clive Marshall.

Match Officials

Referee— Marco Brea Despaigne (Cuba) .
Assistant Referee 1— Graeme Brown (St. Kitts & Nevis).
Assistant Referee 2— Ike Innis (St. Kitts & Nevis).
Fourth Official—Leon Clarke (St. Lucia).

2

Football / Re: TTFF New Logo.

« on: Yesterday at 04:37:37 AM »

Yes, new kit coming !!

3

General Discussion / Re: Escaping captors after 10 years, Amanda Berry ‘real hero’ in kidnapping case.

« on: Yesterday at 04:18:05 AM »

Free Burgers For Life: Cleveland Kidnapping Hero Charles Ramsey Gets His Own “Chuck Card”
By Josh Wolford

You remember Charles Ramsey, right? He’s the normal guy turned hero after he helped rescue Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight, all of whom were being held prisoner on Cleveland, Ohio’s West Side. Out of that nightmare of a story, Ramsey was one bright spot – a genuine, unassuming, utterly hilarious hero with a love for McDonald’s.

Now, it looks like some local Cleveland establishments are looking to say thanks to Ramsey – in a great, big, juicy way.

According to The Cleveland Plain Dealer, about a dozen restaurants have partnered to give Ramsey free burgers for life. This includes AMP 150 at the Marriott Cleveland Airport; Washington Place Bistro and Inn in Little Italy; Fahrenheit restaurant in Tremont; Market Garden Brewery, Bier Markt, Bar Cento and Nano Brew in Ohio City; Welshfield Inn in Troy Township; Hodges and Pura Vida in downtown Cleveland; 87 West at Crocker Park in Westlake; Orchard House restaurant in Brunswick; Flour restaurant in Moreland Hills, and the Allegheny Grille in Foxburg, Pennsylvania.

“We want to honor our local hero with local food,” said Scott Kuhn, who runs a few of the eateries involved in the gift. “He stopped his meal midway through to help those women. We’re now making sure he has other opportunities to go out and fully enjoy his burger.”

Ramsey will be gifted with the only “Chuck Card,” which will entitled him to at least a free burger in all participating restaurants.

He sure wasn’t shy about his love of burgers. Remember this classic line?

“I’m eating my McDonald’s; I come outside; I see this girl going nuts,” he said, “…I knew something was wrong when a little pretty white girl ran into a black man’s arms. Something is wrong here. Dead giveaway!”

Oh Charles. We hope you enjoy your burgers. We really do.

VIDEO -  Neighbor Charles Ramsey : 'I Got Amanda Berry, Send the Police Out'

4

Football / TTFF New Logo - No more TTFF, now TTFA.

« on: Yesterday at 04:00:24 AM »

5

Football / Re: 2013 WoLF Thread

« on: Yesterday at 03:56:37 AM »

WoLF games this weekend‏.
WoLF Release.

WoLF matches starts this Friday with an interesting match up between 2012 First Division Champs, Step by Step and 2012 North Zone Champions, St. Ann's Rangers.

Last year Rangers won the battle by defeating Step by Step to cop the North Zone Title but Step by Step ultimately won the war by taking the First Division Title.

These two teams face each other for the first time this season in the Premier Division and should make for a dog fight to the very end. This match is scheduled to start at 6:30pm at UWI Front Ground.

Also on Friday, Real Dimension faces Defence Force at the Hasely Crawford Training Field, 4:30pm,  as they go for their second consecutive win and sit in third place behind Trincity Nationals and Malick City.

On Saturday, Trincity Nationals face Premier Division newcomers St. Augustine at the St. Augustine Secondary Ground, 4:30pm and on Sunday the National U-17 Girls will travel to Tobago to play Tobago United at an unconfirmed venue.

FIRST DIVISION A
             
7 26-May-13 Malabar All Stars vs Central F.C. Larry Gomes Training 4:00 p.m.
8 26-May-13 Barataria Ball Players vs Tunapuna Titans St. Georges Coll. Grd 4:00 p.m.
9 25-May-13 Tobago All Stars vs Diego Martin Central Utd Tobago 4:00 p.m.
 
FIRST DIVISION B
             
5 25-May-13 Point Fortin Pioners vs La Brea All Stars Mahaica Oval 2:45 p.m.
6 25-May-13 Petrotrin vs MOS Schoolaz Guaracara Park, Point a Pierre 4:00 p.m.
 
PREMIER DIVISION
     
9 25-May-13 St. Augustine F.C. vs Trincity Nationals F.C. St Augustine Sen. Sec 4:00 p.m.
10 26-May-13 Tobago Utd vs National U17 Girls Tobago 4:00 p.m.
11 24-May-13 St. Ann's Rangers F.C. vs Step by  Step F.C. U.W.I - Front Grd 6:30 p.m.
12 24-May-13 Defence Force F.C. vs Real Dimension F.C. Hasely Crawford Training Field 4:30 

6

Football / Re: Manchester City, New York Yankees to own new MLS team

« on: May 22, 2013, 03:39:06 PM »

Is Major League Soccer selling its soul?
Posted by Jeff Carlisle

No doubt, there was plenty of backslapping taking place at MLS headquarters on Tuesday. After all, it's not often that the league receives the kind of investment that Manchester City and the New York Yankees made, as the two teams became owners of New York City FC, the league's 20th team.

While Commissioner Don Garber refused to state for the record on Tuesday's conference call what the expansion fee would be, it's believed to be in the neighborhood of US$100 million. The Commissioner, quite rightly, called the news, "a transformational moment".

-- Carlisle: Soriano's vision
-- Davis: Garber's legacy rests on NYC
-- Manchester City's New York plan
-- How will NYCFC work?

So will this be remembered as the day that MLS made a quantum leap forward or one where it sold its soul?
From a business perspective, having Manchester City and the Yankees on board will give MLS a massive boost, especially when one considers the marketing muscle of both clubs.

"We think we have a tremendous opportunity with the synergies that are going to come from New York City FC and Manchester City," said Manchester City CEO Ferran Soriano during an exclusive interview with ESPN.com. "And we have the best partner you could think of, the Yankees."

Yankees President Randy Levine added: "We think this is a win-win combination. They know soccer. We know how to run New York. We both have tremendous commercial reach. Our brands are well known throughout the world."

But what is taking some of the shine off the announcement are some issues surrounding Manchester City's owner, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Mansour is a member of the Abu Dhabi Royal family, and is the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. According to Forbes, as of 2009 Sheikh Mansour was estimated to have a net worth of nearly $5 billion. The entire family's holdings are estimated at $150 billion.

It's not Sheikh Mansour's wealth that is problematic, especially now that MLS and NYC FC appear to be backing away from a proposal to build a 25,000-seat soccer stadium in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. Rather, it's the human rights record in the UAE. The U.S. State Department's 2012 Report on Human Rights Practices detailed how the country makes arbitrary arrests and criminalizes same-sex activity.

It is the UAE's maltreatment of its LGBT community that has left MLS open to charges of hypocrisy. The league has launched a public service campaign titled "Don't Cross the Line" in which fans are encouraged to practice inclusiveness regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation.

The league has been very vocal in trying to lure former Columbus Crew midfielder Robbie Rogers, who announced that he is gay last February and then retired, back into the league. It has also taken the unusual step of suspending players for the on-field use of gay slurs. It's almost as if the league is saying, "Don’t cross the line, unless you have $100 million".

Of course, it would not be the first time that an MLS owner's personal views were at odds with the league's policy of inclusiveness towards the LGBT community. Phil Anschutz, whose company AEG owns the Los Angeles Galaxy and has a majority stake in the Houston Dynamo, has funded anti-gay initiatives.

Sheikh Mansour's case is more complicated, however. Certainly, there is a case to be made of separating the man from the country, or at least the club from the country. Technically, it is Manchester City who are the majority owners, and the deal to bring them aboard is very much the result of the personal relationship between Soriano and Garber, who have been working towards this kind of arrangement ever since Soriano's days with Barcelona.

Manchester City has also engaged in plenty of good works, both back in England and in New York, including the building of a soccer field on a rooftop in Spanish Harlem. That was the message being driven home by Soriano on Tuesday.

"I can only speak with authority about the record of our club, Manchester City, and our owner," said Soriano. "With the ownership's encouragement, our club has continued to be a model for anti-discrimination and fair play across many important issues, in England and everywhere."

But the fact that Sheikh Mansour is the Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, not to mention the severity of the human rights issues in question, makes it more difficult for the league to distance itself between their stated aims of inclusiveness and the views of one of its owners. That didn't stop MLS from trying.

"We are the league for a new America and our stand against any kind of discrimination has really almost been second to none," said Garber. "So clearly, any owner that comes into MLS, whether it's an existing owner or a new owner, is going to be living to those standards. And we're not just comfortable with Manchester City and their ownership.

"When we looked at what they did in Manchester and looked at the support they have, when we look at the stances that they've taken as it relates to any types of discrimination, they've been a leader in the Premier League for some of the anti-racism programs that have been going on there. We were not [only] not concerned about it, but we were proud about them coming into MLS."

While the league's stance against discrimination is commendable, Garber's explanation doesn't go far enough. Would Garber give the same explanation to Robbie Rogers if/when he returns to the league, or the league's LGBT fans?

Obviously, the policies of the UAE weren't enough to prevent a deal from being made. As so often happens in cases like this, business comes first. But the issue could bleed into NYC FC's attempt to build a stadium. Back when Flushing Meadows-Corona Park was the presumed venue for a new stadium, New York City Councilman Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights), who is gay, indicated he wouldn't be opposed to Sheikh Mansour purchasing land at another site. But he was clear in his dismay at the policies in the UAE.

"It's a monarchy, and [Sheikh Mansour] is the second guy in charge," said Dromm. "This policy of executing or chemically castrating gays, they're responsible for that. There's no way around it. I just don't think the city of New York should be involved in doing business with somebody like that."

New York City Comptroller John Liu has made it his office's policy to do business only with companies supportive of the LGBT community. His office also invests its pension funds only in companies that support LGBT rights, while withdrawing funds from those that don't.

"We are, in general, very concerned with these human rights issues [in the UAE]," he said prior to Tuesday's announcement.

As the process to build a stadium moves forward, it's likely that these issues will still be of concern to New York politicians. The same should be true for MLS.

7

Football / Re: 2013 WoLF Thread

« on: May 22, 2013, 03:06:42 AM »

Malick City Trincity, stay perfect in Wolf.
T&T Guardian Reports.

Jonelle Warrick of Trincity Nationals and Emarie Holland of Malick City had stellar performances for their respective teams to secure their second win from as many matches when the T&T Women’s League Football (WoLF) Premier Division continued on the weekend.

On Saturday at the Eddie Hart Ground, Tunapuna, Warrick, who also netted in her team’s 2-0 shutout of Defence Force to kick off the season, hammered in a beaver-trick for Trinity Nationals in a 5-1 pounding of St Ann’s Rangers.

Warrick got her goals in the 11th, 30th, 36th and 59th minutes while Charissa Delzin added the other in the 71st for a 5-0 lead before Chelsea-Marie Spencer got a 90th-minute consolation strike for Rangers, which drew 1-1 with St Augustine in their opener.

Malick, which spanked defending champions Real Dimension 3-1 in its opener, blanked Tobago WFC 2-0 with Holland scoring a second-half brace in the 63rd and 72nd minute for her team at Pascal Ground, Maraval, to trail Trincity on goal difference at the top of the nine-club standings, both with six points.

Step By Step is two points behind in third spot after a 2-1 win over Defence Force in the first match of a double-header at Dibe Ground, Long Circular, while two hours later at the same venue, Real Dimension finally jump-started its bid to repeat as champions with a 5-0 trouncing of the T&T  Under-17 women’s team who are using the tournament as part of their preparations for the Caribbean Football Under-17 Championships.

For Real Dimension, former national forward Alania Burgin and current T&T midfielder Dernelle Mascall scored two apiece and Natasha St Louis, also a national player, the other. However, the biggest winners on the weekend were Diego Martin Central which blasted Tunapuna Titans 11-0, led by a beaver-trick from Allizza Mc Cutcheon and a treble from Breanna George.

Diego Martin, which also got a goal each from Malak Marcelle, Akilah Crawford, Micheala Samaroo and Rosario Lewis at Constantine Park, Macoya, on Sunday, leads the six-team Group B table with six points from two matches, three ahead of Malabar All Stars, 6-0 victors against Barataria Ball Players, and Central FC. In the First Division Group B matches played, La Brea Angels made it two wins on the trot after a 4-0 shutout of Mos Schoolaz while Petrotrin edged Civic Centre Pioneers 3-2.

Women’s football Results

Premier Division: [Saturday:]

Trincity Nationals 5 (Jonelle Warrick 11th, 30th, 36th, 59th, Charissa Delzin 71st) vs St Ann’s Rangers 1 (Chelsea Marie Spencer 90th)

Real Dimension 5 (Alania Burgin 32nd, 75th, Dernelle Mascall 51st, 87th, Natasha St Louis 42nd) vs T&T Under-17s 0

Step By Step 2 vs Defence Force 1

Sunday: [Premier Division:]

Malick City 2 (Emarie Holland 63rd, 72nd) vs Tobago WFC 0

First Division: [Group A:]

Diego Martin Central 11 (Allizza Mc Cutcheon 4th, 19th, 72nd, 87th, Breanna George 21st, 35th, 48th, Malak Marcelle 13th, Akilah Crwaford 30th, Micheala Samaroo 89th, Rosario Lewis 89th) vs Tunapuna Titans 0

Malabar All Stars 6 vs Barataria Ball Players 0

Group B:

La Brea Angels 4 vs Mos Schoolaz 0

Petrotrin 3 vs Civic Centre Pioneers 2

Upcoming matches: [Premier Division:]

Saturday May 24:

St Ann’s Rangers vs Step By Step, Trinity College Ground, Moka, 4 pm
Defence Force vs Real Dimension, TBD, 4 pm

Sunday May 25:

St Augustine vs Trincity Nationals, St Augustine Sen Sec. Grd, 4 pm
Tobago Utd vs T&T Under-17s, Tobago, 4 pm

8

Football / Warner: T&T 06 Warriors did the least but got the most.

« on: May 22, 2013, 03:03:23 AM »

Warner queries Warriors funding.
By JOEL BAILEY (Newsday).

JACK WARNER, former special adviser to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF), has queried the timing of the settlement between the local governing body and 13 members of the 2006 national football team — “the Soca Warriors”.

On Monday, in a media conference at the VIP Lounge, Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, both the Federation, through its new president Raymond Tim Kee and the Warriors, led by players’ representative Brent Sancho, announced a settlement was made regarding players’ bonuses allegedly promised to them by Warner during the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

Warner, speaking at the Mandela Hall, Dr Joao Havelange Centre of Excellence, Macoya yesterday, was asked about the resolution made by the two parties.

It was reported last week that the funding for the 13 players arose after a CONCACAF audit which discovered unclaimed commercial and broadcast revenues that were due to the TTFF for the 2014 World Cup cycle.

“You don’t find its timely that they’ll accept CONCACAF money,” said the former Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and CONCACAF boss. “As soon as Jack Warner is supposed to have gone that they’ll take CONCACAF money and so on. “The footballers, I’m happy for them,” Warner continued. “They are the footballers who did the least in any World Cup ever, and got the most money. Never in the history of the World Cup, has a team not scored a goal, not won a match, and has got as much money as them. “I am happy for them, good luck. I hope, of course, two-three years from now they’ll have the money. The timing of the payment is not by accident.”

Questioned further on the TTFF inability to identify the exact source of the funds, Warner replied, “I said this before and I’ll say it again. There is a time to talk and a time to stay quiet. I’ll stay quiet for the time being. But the battle with FIFA and CONCACAF for me is far from over.”

Warner resigned his posts from FIFA (vice-president), CONCACAF, CFU and TTFF following bribery allegations in 2011.

But he emphasised, “I don’t miss football, and worse yet, the football today in Trinidad and Tobago does not encourage me to look at it, and the Caribbean, just as well.

“In the Caribbean (football), what we have done is sold our birthright. In the Caribbean (Football Union) and the CONCACAF, it’s just a shell of what it was before.”

Sancho refused to state the amount of monies given to the players, citing security fears, and Warner pointed out, “I would say nothing more on that and least of all, on Sancho.”



Joel Bailey writes for the T&T Newsday and this article is posted on the SWO forum for discusion purposes.

9

Football / Jorsling anticipates Defence Force dominance.

« on: May 22, 2013, 03:01:13 AM »

Jorsling anticipates Defence Force dominance.
T&T Newsday Reports.

ACE DEFENCE Force forward and 2012-2013 Digicel Pro League top goal-scorer Devorn Jorsling believes that his team’s existing squad can dominate local football for the next few seasons.

“We’ve been together for a (number) of years and I think we have matured well in the League, and we have an experienced bunch of players,” said Jorsling who topped the League scorers’ list with 20 goals. “I believe if it was not for the (State Of Emergency in 2011) Defence Force would have won the League last season. I think this squad has two … three years in it, because the average ages of the players are 28 and we have some youngsters coming through. So I say we can dominate local football for the next two … three years.”

On May 10, Defence Force ended a successful League campaign with a 4-0 win over cellar-placed TTEC FC at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya and celebrated the title that already had the name Defence Force etched on it five days before. Defence Force, 46 points at the top with 14 wins, four draws and just three defeats, were closely followed by Caledonia AIA in second.

The Morvant/Laventille club finished with 42 points from 13 wins, three draws and five defeats, while last season’s winners (DIRECTV) W Connection finished third with 38 points, just as fourth-placed North East Stars, but ahead by a better goal difference. “It really feels great because every game, week in, week out … ninety minutes, it was hard fight,” explained Defence Force team captain and right-back, Corey Rivers, who was rested against TTEC, in their final League contest. It feels really great to now lift the trophy at the end of the season, and that was one of our aims from the beginning — go at the League Championship.”

Rivers added that the Army-Coast Guard combination took each game, one at a time and gave it all that they had.

It was the second League title clinched by the Army in the last three seasons.

In 2010-2011 Defence Force lifted the title and Jorsling led the season scoring and was later named Toyota/TT Pro League Player of the Year. Jorsling immediately moved on to join USL Pro club Orlando City on a one year deal and was part of the team’s League success.

But back at home the soldiers didn’t go on to defend the title in 2011-2012. A Trinidad and Tobago Government issued State of Emergency in 2011 between September and December resulted in the soldiers entering the season late and without preparation.

Jorsling returned to Trinidad, around the time Defence Force looked set to start its 2011-2012 campaign, but opted to join home-town club Caledonia on a short term deal to complete his two-year sabbatical from the Army. Jorsling enjoyed Cup successes at the Morvant-Laventille club, but it was Defence Force teammate Richard Roy that was named Toyota/TT Pro League Player of the Year in that season.

Only recently Jorsling and Roy were rewarded a new Toyota Yaris each for their Player of the Year accomplishments in the previous two seasons. And, two Fridays ago, Jorsling’s emotions were quite different from his teammates after celebrating the League title a second time.

“This (2012-2013) title was even sweeter than the first one (2010-2011),” shared Jorsling. “…coming back into the team from playing with Caledonia last season, I said, I had to win this title to regain the trust of my teammates.

“And I think I did that. At the beginning of the season it was a bit shaky, but we settled down. I think I’ve won back the trust of the guys and we gelled as a team, now this is the end product.

“It’s a great feeling … look I’m getting goose bumps,” he showed, “…because to leave the Defence force and come back to win the league … have a good input in the team and scoring the most goals in the League.”

10

Football / Re: Thread for the 2013 CFU Club Championship.

« on: May 22, 2013, 02:54:46 AM »

Caledonia look to clinch Champions League spot.
By Ian Prescott (Express).

Neal & Massy Caledonia AIA maneuvered themselves into a favourable position to clinch a spot in the 2013-2014 CONCACAF Champions League football series after winning the opening leg of a two-match playoff by a 1-0 margin over competitive Jamaican National Premier League champions Portmore United on Monday night at Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain.

A draw in tonight’s return match at the Ato Boldon Stadium (6 p.m.), Couva will be enough to put Caledonia through as the Caribbean’s third qualifier alongside group winners W Connection (T&T) and Valencia (Haiti).  Monday’s first leg was a lively affair, which was ultimately settled in the 28th minute when lanky T&T national striker Jamal Gay headed Andre Toussaint’s cross in off the fingertips of former Jamaican national youth goalkeeper Kemar Foster. 

The football was lively, as were the two rhythm sections vying for supremacy. There was a great   atmosphere at the venue and the football produced on the field was competitive as well.  Portmore are a real opponent, aggressive and dangerous. It was generally felt that Caledonia needed more than one goal going into tonight’s second leg. They will again have to be solid in all areas to advance. 

“One nil up is a good position for us,” stated Jerry Moe, Caledonia’s head-coach. “But having seen the opponents, we can’t lift our feet off the pedal. If they (Portmore) were playing in the (TT) Pro League, they would be one of the top four teams.”

Caledonia dominated the first half and had the better chances, but seemed to tire in the second session when the Jamaicans had a long period of control. “Cali” stuck to their short-passing standard, but the Morvant-Laventille boys were forced to raise their tempo above the sometimes sedate pace of the local Pro League due to the aggression of the Jamaicans, who contested every pass.

Former Joe Public front man Toussaint proved a good addition to the Caledonia squad and should have added a second goal in the 51st, but turned the ball overbar after the Portmore ‘keeper blocked Gay’s initial shot. Later, Toussaint also had a brief chance when goalie Foster juggled Gay’s cross, but the striker touched the ball wide under pressure at the near post.

A burst of speed saw left midfielder Nathan Lewis bearing down on Portmore’s goal, but Foster was quickly out to block the shot. And Foster also barely kept the ball out after substitute Keyon Edwards got a weak connection to  Lewis’ square ball in the final minutes. From free-kicks, both Caledonia right-defender Kareem Young and playmaker Densill Theobald also forced diving saves from the Portmore ‘keeper Foster.

“Last night we saw a compact (Portmore) and they didn’t allow us much room. They have some good athletic players and they had some chances, which they didn’t put away. We also had some scoring chances, apart from the goal, and in one instance I thought (Andre) Toussaint should have scored to double our advantage,” said Moe.

Portmore generally used the long ball to push the locals back in the first half. Portmore shot from any and every angle, particularly strikers Paul Wilson and Sue Lae Mc Calla. The duo deliberately focused on catching out Caledonia’s sometimes erratic goalie Glenroy Samuel, who is almost always off his goal-line. Samuel made an excellent block in the 17th minute to stop Wilson, who met a cross at the back post, and also got back quickly to push Mc Calla’s header over the bar after the Jamaican striker caught him marginally out of goal.

“It was a very hard game for us and we had to dig deep and thank God we got the result we wanted, “ stated Caledonia playmaker Theobald.

“Portmore were more aggressive than our weekly Pro League opponents, but we stuck to the task and hopefully today we (can) finish the job.” 

 

11

Football / Re: T&T combine coming to Brooklyn.

« on: May 21, 2013, 12:49:28 PM »

By the way, Irasto wants $1,000 USD for an interview, he said we will sell it and get big like Facebook and make money on his article and two clips with him scoring for T&T and he will be loosing out.

 

I've had similar dealings with many especially the older heads who thinks we make money off the site and refuse to do interviews..

Oh well, definitely not my lost..

12

Football / Re: Thread for the 2013 CFU Club Championship.

« on: May 21, 2013, 09:19:54 AM »

Caledonia draws first blood against Jamaican club Portmore in CCL qualifying.
ttproleague.com.

Caledonia AIA are one foot inside a second consecutive appearance in the CONCACAF Champions’ League after edging Jamaican club Portmore United 1-0 at Hasely Crawford Stadium on Monday night.

Caledonia debutant Andre Toussaint provided the assist from a crossball and striker Jamal Gay was on alert in the area to hit past Portmore goalie Kemar Foster in the 27th minute for what turned out the early winner.

Monday’s contest was the first of a two-match play-off, with the second contest on Wednesday from 6pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium, and the overall winner will secure the third and final Caribbean qualifying spot to the 2013-2014 CONCACAF Champions’ League.

DIRECTV W Connection and Haiti’s Valencia SC are already through to the CCL having topped their respective qualifying groups.

While Caledonia, who debuted in the CCL last season, and Portmore United reached the play-off as the two second placed finishers out of the group stage.

Caledonia had an excellent breakthrough from winger Nathan Lewis who’s legs were too quick for Portmore defenders Rosario Harriot and Upston Edwards in the 10th minute, tried a fancy chip against Foster, but the Jamaican goalie got enough to the ball to tame the effort which was eventually cleared.

And a minute later Foster had to pull out an excellent save to put behind a Toussaint freekick, after he won the whistle of St. Lucian referee Leon Clarke above the area—the 31 year old Toussaint clearly showing his class and ability to create problems for opposing defenses, despite being out of competitive football for nearly six months.

Portmore had a good opening in the 16th minute but Caledonia goalie Glenroy Samuel kept out an effort by Paul Wilson off a Sue Lae Mc Calla. Wilson had another attempt a minute and a half later but guided it wide of goal.

But it was Caledonia, supported by two rhythm groups on the night, who landed the crucial item at the noisy stadium when Gay tucked in a Toussaint cross past Foster.

The Jamaicans responded with an ambitious effort from distance by Trevol Smith in the 36th minute, but he only won Portmore a couple claps as the effort flashed wide.

And four minutes later, teammate Bryan Bayliss struck overbar from distance, and again fired into the night’s sky from above the area just before the half time whistle.

Two minutes prior, Akim Armstrong shaved the Portmore side netting with a stinger from distance, but the Morvant-Laventille club had a gift of an opportunity six minutes after the break.

However Toussaint guided the rebound effort overbar, after goalkeeper Foster palmed away a Lewis strike.

And in the 55th minute Densill Theobald, who led the Lewis attack moments earlier, had a second bite on a cherry from a freekick and forced Foster into a low diving save.

Portmore clearly unable to contain the Caledonia midfield made up of Lewis, Theobald, Akim Armstrong and the surging runs of fullbacks Aubrey David and Kareem Joseph.

Joseph however, had to be replaced injured.

Meantime Portmore who had a couple nervous moments in the closing stages came closest to a second half item on the hour mark.

But Ma Calla’s header off a Trevol Smith’s cross was superbly pushed behind for a corner by Samuel.

CONCACAF Champions’ League qualifying

Portmore United 0—1 Caledonia AIA
Jamal Gay 27’

Teams

Portmore United—Kemar Foster, Adrian Reid (capt.), Rosario Harriot, Upston Edwards, Bryan Bayliss (Stephen Williams 73rd), Cleon Price (Adoah Nickle 67th), Andrew Vanzie, Trevol Smith, Paul Wilson (Andre Lewis 77th), Ewan Grandison, Sue Lae Mc Calla.

Unused Substitutes—Carlloyd Walters, Ryan Willington, Rickcardo Harriot, Damion Minns.

Coach—Clive Marshall.

Caledonia AIA—Glenroy Samuel, Stephan David (capt.) Aubrey David, Nuru Abdullah Muhammad, Colin Nelson, Kareem Joseph (Miguel Alejandro Romeo 79th), Andre Toussaint (Vurlon Mills 74th), Akim Armstrong (Keyon Edwards 74th), Densill Theobald, Jamal Gay, Nathan Lewis.

Unused substitutes—Shemel Louison, Aaron Lester, Nical Stephens, Akeem Thomas.

Coach—Jamaal Shabazz.

Match Officials

Referee—Leon Clarke (St. Lucia).
Assistant Referee 1—Ike Innis (St. Kitts & Nevis).
Assistant Referee 2—Graeme Brown (St. Kitts & Nevis).
Fourth Official—Marco Brea Despaigne.

13

General Discussion / Re: Section 34 Thread

« on: May 21, 2013, 03:33:13 AM »

Plot to cover up section 34
Rowley: ‘Anan’, ‘KPB’ targeted T&T Guardian reporter

Opposition leader Dr Keith Rowley wants the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Integrity Commission to probe e-mails purportedly bearing the names of frontline government officials who allegedly wanted to tap the DPP’s phone after the Section 34 furore. Rowley also claimed the e-mails revealed moves to shift the DPP to the judiciary and further discussed intended intimidation of a T&T Guardian reporter who broke the Section 34 story last September.

The PNM leader alleged the contents of the e-mails were all part of a conspiracy which was afoot among Government’s frontline members last September to deal with the heated situation the administration had to face when the Section 34 issue broke. Rowley dropped the bombshells when he launched yesterday’s Parliament debate on his motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her Government. In an immediate response, Persad-Bissessar announced that she had written acting Commissioner of Police, Stephen Williams, to start a probe into the claims.

Rowley said he had received the package of 31 e-mails on the Section 34 issue from a whistleblower six months ago and had sent it to the President. He gave the e-mail addresses as “kamlapb1@gmail.com”, “anan@gmail.com”, “captaingarygriffith@hotmail” and “surujrambachan@hotmail”. Rowley said the body of e-mails covered 17 days in September 2012 when Government was called upon to answer on the Section 34 issue. He said the unnamed whistleblower was a source who wanted the public to know about the situation and the information in the e-mails “points to grievous wrongdoing on the part of officials who had failed to answer questions on the issue.”

He cited the exchange of e-mails in that regard, particularly between the “kamlapb1” address and the “anan” address. He also noted that a particular target of the e-mail discussion was the DPP. Rowley noted one September 10 e-mail at the height of the Section 34 furore, in which “taps” were being sought for the DPP’s phones and a September 11 e-mail which alluded to offering the DPP a post in the judiciary and finding a replacement for him. He said: “They had problems with the DPP and it could only be solved by him being removed and bringing in a replacement.”

Rowley also cited how the owners of the e-mail addresses spoke about T&T Guardian reporter Denyse Renne, who had written the September 9, 2012, story which broke the Section 34 fiasco, how upset they were about that and what they wanted to do as a result. After those particular e-mails a vicious slanderous attack was launched against Renne on the Internet. “I leave you to come to the conclusions where there was any connection between the intent and the instructions in those e-mails,” he said. Rowley added: “This package of e-mails points to high crimes in the office of T&T. This matter, because of the nature of it, requires the urgent attention on the part of T&T because the one thing we cannot do is take the Government’s word.”

He said it may be that the proper examination of the e-mails would show that the mandate the Government received in May 2010 was sold for financial gains and the Government “was in the employ of people who used the Government’s mandate to protect themselves from courts locally and abroad.” Rowley also called on the DPP to examine what was said in Parliament yesterday and called on the Integrity Commission to discharge its responsibility to oversee the conduct of public officers. In the absence of an Integrity Commission, Rowley called on the President to ensure that body was appointed swiftly. Noting the comments made in the e-mails about Renne, for instance, Rowley said that was a harbinger of “terrible things “ and was how the mafiosi spoke when they met to discuss “people who were in their way.”

Noting one September 8 e-mail which spoke of calling a meeting, Rowley said the Prime Minister did indeed hold a special Cabinet meeting on September 10 on Section 34. “That September 8 e-mail seems to have been a harbinger of things to come. I leave you to draw your own conclusions,” he added. He also noted a September 19 e-mail on advice to fire former justice minister Herbert Volney, who was fired in connection with Section 34 on September 21. Rowley several times referred to former US president Richard Nixon and the Watergate issue, saying the same thing had happened there. There was largely dead silence on the PP side as Rowley spoke. AG Ramlogan took notes as the PNM leader talked. Before Rowley concluded, House Leader Roodal Moonilal asked to see copies of the e-mails. Moonilal later went over to the AG’s desk to confer with him. When Ramlogan was replying, PP backbencher Herbert Volney got up and left. Moonilal yesterday said debate would last four days, possibly ending Thursday.

14

Football / Re: Now Latapy sues TTFF ...for $5m

« on: May 21, 2013, 03:30:33 AM »

President says Latapy ‘not fairly treated’
By Kern De Freitas (Express).

Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF) president has acknowledged that Russell Latapy “had not been treated” fairly in relation to the Federation’s outstanding debts to the former senior national coach.

Tim Kee was speaking yesterday during a press conference at the VIP Lounge of Hasely Crawford Stadium, where he officially announced the TTFF had settled their seven-year court battle with the 2006 “Soca Warriors”.

Asked by the Express what was the status of their reported debt to Latapy, the TTFF head said he had met with the ex-T&T midfielder and had placed him “close to the (2006) Soca Warriors in terms of priority (for payment)”.

Reports last year claimed Latapy had filed a lawsuit in the High Court seeking over $4 million in outstanding salary owed by the Federation and damages, plus interest.

Tim Kee explained that soon after he assumed office, he met with Latapy, who explained the situation to the TTFF head, which left Tim Kee “taken aback”.

“I asked for the evidence to support what he was speaking about. He furnished me with a file, which contained communication between him and the TTFF. Having perused that file and having looked at all that was there, I felt that he had not been fairly treated.”

He added that he informed Latapy that the footballers’ case took precedence over his matter, and that he should not “expect anything overnight”. But he guaranteed the “Little Magician”, as Latapy is known, that he will try to settle the debt.

“Nobody in the commercial world is going to sponsor money to pay debt,” Tom Kee said. They won’t get their mileage. I told Russell based on the plans we have been discussing (about) some of the initiatives we propose to implement, they are all income-generating initiatives.”

The TTFF boss said he wants to change the body’s way of doing things, and wants to work toward clearing “some of the expenses we had in the past”.

But it is also clear that the TTFF executive is not all on the same page. Asked why some of the TTFF executive, including former acting president Lennox Watson had not been privy to the source of the funds used to settle the 2006 Warriors’ matter, Tim Kee said he did not know how to answer the question.

“We are talking about exigencies, we are talking about several challenges that we had. In fact, I don’t know why Mr Watson, who is vice-president would go out in the public and say that. I don’t know,” he responded.

“Anything further than that, you would have to ask him. It was something that was new to us, it wouldn’t have been to them.

As a matter of fact (CONCACAF president) Mr (Jeffrey) Webb said that he shared that information at a conference where Mr Watson was.”

15

Football / Re: CONCACAF will pay TTFF debt to the T&T players.

« on: May 21, 2013, 03:28:15 AM »

CONCACAF boss pleased.
T&T Express Reports.

CONCACAF president Jeffrey Webb has expressed his satisfaction with the final resolution of the bonus dispute between the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation and 13 2006 Soca Warriors footballers.

In a brief statement yesterday, Webb said: “In the interest of the development of the game, CONCACAF is very pleased with the commitment seen throughout our meetings to promote the sport and ultimately reach a final agreement to resolve all pending matters within football in Trinidad and Tobago. In an effort to regenerate an environment of trust, we congratulate the Federation and its leadership for their continued quest to move forward past matters and build for the future development and growth of the game in the country.

At CONCACAF, we were glad to have been of assistance to the Federation and will continue to set a clear roadmap that restores the integrity of the game in the region. We look forward to maintaining our joint efforts to continue developing football, as it is our duty to support the younger generations in allowing them to fulfill their goals. I am confident this continued commitment and support will set yet another example of trustworthiness to the national football family. We are indeed hopeful to soon see a unified football community in Trinidad and Tobago.”

16

Football / Re: CONCACAF will pay TTFF debt to the T&T players.

« on: May 21, 2013, 03:25:21 AM »

TTFF consider ‘action’ over missing funds
By Kern De Freitas (Express).

The legal contest between the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF) and the 2006 “Soca Warriors” was officially declared at an end yesterday by TTFF president Raymond Tim Kee.

But the matter of Germany 2006 World Cup revenue still being unaccounted for in the wake of the players’ maiden World Cup campaign may not be over.

In fact, there could be legal repercussions for embattled former Minister of National Security Jack Warner--also an ex-Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and CONCACAF president--who was last month accused by a CONCACAF committee of mismanaging funds.

During yesterday’s press conference at the Hasely Crawford Stadium’s VIP Lounge to announce the TTFF’s settlement with the players—the sum of which is still undisclosed, both parties said, due to players’ security concerns—Tim Kee hinted that there might be legal action taken by the Federation depending on what ongoing CONCACAF investigations find.

“From our understanding, TTFF is very much a part of CONCACAF, and in pursuit of (CONCACAF’s) uncovering and investigating all the goings-on in the past, Trinidad and Tobago has not been exempted from that,” Tim Kee said yesterday during the event.

“I believe that that arm will be extended to the TTFF, where the forensics and all the investigations will be done. That is a big one that my mouth is not quite capable of biting and chewing. That’s bigger than me. “The investigations will reveal something, and based on that, we’ll have to take appropriate actions.”

Tim Kee said when he was chosen to head the TTFF last year, he “dreamed of the day and time” when he would be able to help settle the players’ matter. To him the issue was a “vexatious” one over the last seven years, and he feels now that the matter is settled, T&T football can move on to a “glorious future”.

“This journey for me is not about dollars and cents. It is about the future of our football,” Tim Kee said. “This journey for me is about trust and loyalty. It is about commitment and accountability. At the end of today the road we have travelled must speak for how well we care for and love our football players, our entertainers.”

Then, after explaining that promising talks were held with FIFA president Sepp Blatter in March, and with CONCACAF head Jeffrey Webb in terms of assisting the debt-ridden Federation, Tim Kee said Webb brought to his attention unclaimed funds associated with T&T’s failed World Cup 2014 campaign, including TV rights. Immediately, he added, he earmarked the funds to clear the debt to the players.

The TTFF president invited T&T’s former footballers to “come back home” and contribute to the national game, before taking the time to say sorry.

Said Tim Kee: “I want to sincerely apologise, most sincerely apologise for the pain which you (the players) have had to endure over those years. I want to ask you to come and join the pleasure which together we can bring as we take Trinidad football once again into the glorious days and into that new global era.”

Tim Kee also promised the Federation’s “120-something” creditors that the TTFF is actively seeking to become sustainably self-sufficient, and will pay off its debts.

“(These are) debts that are mind-boggling because some are small and some not so small. But things have to be paid off. And I can promise you that we are not going to enjoy one cup of soda before we (settle) our debts with the people who had entrusted their service and their own investment, their own money in supporting us in the past.”

RELATED NEWS

‘Nightmare’ finally over for Warriors.
By Kern De Freitas (Express).

After seven years of legal wrangling with the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF), the 13 2006 “Soca Warriors” can breathe a sigh of relief that the “nightmare” is over.

So said Brent Sancho, whose voice had been chief among those seeking to recover bonuses connected with their World Cup 2006 campaign. They achieved victory in their 2007 arbitration ruling by the Sports Dispute Resolution Panel (SDRP) and subsequently two awards of interim payments in the High Court over three years ago.

But only yesterday, with the intervention of the TTFF’s most recent president Raymond Tim Kee, the matter with the players was finally settled, with previously unclaimed television rights money and other funds associated with T&T’s failed World Cup 2014 campaign, according to TTFF officials.

Sancho was front and centre with Tim Kee and new general TTFF general secretary Sheldon Phillips, who recently replaced Richard Groden after the latter stepped down from the post.

Now, with the anniversary of T&T’s first World Cup match looming—it will be seven years since T&T faced Sweden in Germany on June 8, 2006—the dreadlocked former defender says the players can finally savour memories of the occasion.

“I think this June 8 will be looked at very differently, said Sancho. “When you look back at what has transpired over these seven years when we were basically ignored by the then Federation, and the treatment that we received, I think in June we can look forward to some of the memories in Germany.

“I know that is something (great)… we’ve never been able to enjoy that. This has been a nightmare for seven years for us.”

Sancho thanked Tim Kee and the TTFF for finally settling the matter, as well as the players’ legal team, the public for their support, and even the media for keeping the matter highlighted in the public.

He also accepted Tim Kee’s apology for the “pain” the players have endured over the seven-year period, and accepted the latter’s offer to play a testimonial match against the 1989 “Strike Squad”.

“Some of us would’ve lost our international careers through blacklisting and through retirement,” Sancho said. “For many of us we never got the opportunity to leave the stage with a bow. This is a tremendous gesture. We are looking forward to the game.”

Ex-goalkeeper Kelvin Jack, who was also one of the biggest voices representing the players, called the settlement a “big relief”.

“It’s a new chapter now in Trinidad and Tobago Football,” he said. “It’s all positive, and I hope that the new Federation will lead us back to where we were back in 2006.”

Jack said T&T football has gone back “quite a long way”, but was confident that it can recover because of a wealth of talent locally. Still, he feels it will be “very, very difficult”.

17

Football / Re: Thread for the 2013 CFU Club Championship.

« on: May 20, 2013, 04:59:44 AM »

Latest Caledonia signing Toussaint selected for Portmore challenge.
ttproleague.com.

"Our heads are up and we're ready to go," says Caledonia AIA captain Stephan David, as the Morvant-Laventille club announced a 20-man squad to face Jamaican club Portmore United on Monday and Wednesday of this week.

Former Joe Public striker Andre Toussaint has been drafted into the Caledonia roster which includes defenders Nuru Abdallah Muhammad and Kareem Joseph who were rested last Friday in the Digicel Pro Bowl quarterfinal round.

The 31 year old Toussaint, also a former W Connection player, is said to be fully recovered from injury.

And though Caledonia were defeated 3-1 against DIRECTV W Connection in that quarterfinal encounter, David feels the team is ready to bounce back in its CONCACAF Champions' League qualifier at the Hasely Crawford Stadium from 6pm on Monday.

"These games against Portmore are the most important games of our season and the guys have already put the Pro Bowl game behind us and we are very focused on today's game," added the veteran midfielder.

On Wednesday Caledonia will face Portmore again from 6pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium to wrap up a two-match play-off for the third and final Caribbean spot into the Champions' League.

Fellow Pro League club W Connection and Haitian outfit Valencia SC have already qualified for the CCL having topped their groups of first round qualifying.

Caledonia AIA squad

Goalkeepers

Glenroy Samuel, Shemel Louision

Defenders

Nuru Abdullah Muhammad, Akeem Thomas, Nical Stephens, Kareem Joseph, Colin Nelson, Aubrey Devid.

Midfielders

Densill Theobald, Stephan David (capt), Nathan Lewis, Akim Armstrong, Aaron Lester, Abdallah Phillips, Vurlon Mills, Keyon Edwards.

Strikers

Jamal Gay, Odelle Armstrong, Andre Toussaint.

18

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / Air Supply brings house down in T&T.

« on: May 20, 2013, 04:24:56 AM »

Air Supply brings house down
By CAROL MATROO Monday, May 20 2013

It was truly “The Greatest Night of Romance” at the Centre of Excellence in Macoya, on Saturday night as Grammy Award winning artistes Christopher Cross, Peter Cetera and Air Supply took centre-stage to deliver their timeless classic hits to hundreds of screaming fans.

The concert was presented by International Concert Events.

Cross started it off just right as he wooed the crowd with his hottest hits. His ever popular “Sailing” and “Think of Laura” hit just the right note as young and not so young fans sang the words of the songs that never seem to grow old.

Cetera made a dashing figure in a white jacket, red shirt and dark pants as he took to the stage. “Stay the Night,” “You’re My Inspiration,” “Next Time I Fall In Love,” Hard Habit To Break,” “Hard To Say I’m Sorry”…all oldies, but goldies, that had couples swaying in the aisles to the romantic lyrics.

Cetera was interrupted during his performance as officials announced that the Fire Services had closed off emergency exits as fans were trying to get into the already capacity-filled hall. Those inside were urged to take their seats and the show continued without a hitch.

But, it was the British/Australian band, Air Supply, who literally brought the house down. Screams echoed throughout the packed hall as the super vocalist duo, Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock jumped on to the stage. Eager young ladies left their seats to stand in the aisles, probably thinking that they were too confined to enjoy what one young woman said were the “best songs ever.”

“Even The Night Is Better” could not have been a better choice as the band from “down under” sang their long list of hits. This was followed by “just As I Am”, “On My Own”, “Every Woman In The World”—which had the ladies grabbing on to their men, holding on tightly as they lost themselves in the romantic words.

The dynamic duo surprised the crowd as they leapt off the stage and walked through the aisles while singing “Lost In Love.” Even the band’s beefy security detail struggled to keep fans at bay as they tried to touch the men and take their photographs.

And people do actually swoon, as several women held their hands to their hearts while others clasped their palms to their cheeks while fanning themselves. They had fans singing the words aloud as they made their way back to the stage, but the crowd surged forward, and this time security definitely had their hands full as they crowded in front of the stage. Or maybe they did not want to try too hard giving fans the chance to get their money’s worth.

Which was definitely the case judging from the responses from the patrons. Nerissa Boodoo was pleased as punch as she sang along from her vantage seat. “I am absolutely pleased and I believe I am getting my money’s worth. I go to all of their concerts,” she gushed. Thirty-four-year old Teekaram, who is mentally challenged, sat mesmerised as he lisened to what his sister , Shobha said was his all time favourite.

“He said he wanted to see Air Supply so we brought him with my other sister, mummy and daddy,” she said.

“Just Claudette”—that was the way she gave her name—said she left her home in Florida just to attend the concert.

“I am having an absolutely wonderful time. It was worth the trip,” she said.

It was a much anticipated concert which delivered on its promise to deliver an evening of romance. Traffic on the highway and the back roads leading to the venue was backed-up as patrons slowly made their way, many seeking parking spots along the way.

Young men were making a brisk trade offering “safe parking” for $40 for the night.

The romance continued, many men were seen with roses in their hands for their sweethearts. These were on sale at the concert.

Fire officers ensured the safety of the fans inside the venue, while police officers were alert for those who may have had too much of a good time, what with the flow of liquor in the VIP and VVIP sections. A male and female officer had to call for reinforcements after they tried to detain a young man who was most certainly inebriated.

He tried to resist when the officers took his driver’s permit and keys from him, but they were able to subdue him and he was arrested.

Despite a few minor mishaps, it was a happy crowd that walked out of the Centre of Excellence, the romance of the evening still lingering, the words of love still echoing through the air.

19

Football / Re: Pro League & Foreign Based player movements.

« on: May 20, 2013, 04:22:41 AM »

Andre Toussaint - from Joe Public to Caledonia AIA.

20

Football / Re: Guerra signs short term deal with RoPS.

« on: May 19, 2013, 06:36:02 AM »

Guerra eager to face Romania, Estonia.
T&T Express Reports.

Ataullah Guerra is thrilled to be in the Trinidad and Tobago squad that will travel to Europe for the first time since the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Guerra is in the T&T line-up for the upcoming friendly internationals against Romania and Estonia on June 4 and 7, and said he is excited ahead of the two encounters. T&T last match on that continent was a friendly away to Austria in November 2006.

“These are two good games for us. The teams in Europe will always give you a good match and it’s important for us to play teams out there. Not only will it be good for our squad, but I think our players are talented and people are always looking.

This is all good for the growth of our football back home,” said Guerra.

“Personally I’ve enjoyed competing against the players in Europe and I’d love the chance to face the guys from Europe and Estonia and I think all of the players in the national team (T&T) will also be looking forward to come up against them,” he added.

The attacking T&T mid-fielder plays club football in the Finnish Premier League with RoPS  Rovaniemi, who were ninth on the standings following their 3-1 loss to third place VPS Vaasa last Sunday.

Guerra put his team ahead in the third minute with a stunning right-footed strike from 20 yards out, which flew into the right corner of the net after he worked his way into position, holding off a couple challenges in the process.

“It was a perfect strike. I saw the opportunity and I went for it,” the midfielder from East Dry River, Laventille told TTFF Media.

“But we lost the game which wasn’t the best feeling. Hopefully we can continue to improve and get some better results in our upcoming games.”

21

General Discussion / Re: Caribbean Airlines Thread.

« on: May 19, 2013, 06:33:43 AM »

ONE DOWN AT CAL
Howai fires new director at State airline
By Asha Javeed (Express).

One day after he was appointed to the Caribbean Airlines (CAL) board on Friday, the appointment of Courtney McNish has been revoked by Finance Minister Larry Howai.

The Express reported yesterday that McNish was previously employed at CAL as vice president of Human Resources in 2008, but was fired from the company in 2009. In a statement yesterday, Howai said he had withdrawn McNish from the interim CAL board chaired by former senator Philip Marshall.

“Immediately as information about Mr McNish’s previous tenure at CAL came to light, I acted to withdraw his name on Friday afternoon as I have every intention of ensuring that the board has the full confidence and faith of all stakeholders and is focused on achieving its very clear mandate,” said Howai.

On Friday, Howai accepted full responsibility for the massive million-dollar losses racked up the national airline.

The Express was told that Howai did not seek Cabinet’s approval to change the board but did so himself.

McNish was one of five members appointed to the CAL board to replace the dismissed board chaired by Rabindra Moonan last Friday.

The Express was informed that McNish’s employment with the airline came to an end following a janitorial contract awarded by CAL to a company in which he was a major shareholder.

Contacted for comment yesterday, McNish who is also president of the National Basketball Federation of Trinidad and Tobago, argued that he was never appointed to the CAL board as he never received any instrument of appointment.

But he confirmed that he was present at the meeting in which the Minister asked him and the other members—Marshall, Vishnu Dhanpaul,  Indira Ramkissoon, Patricia Kong-Ting and Jamaican businessman Denis Lalor—to be part of the interim board.

On Friday, Howai had officially announced McNish as one of the members of the interim CAL board.

McNish yesterday told the Express that he had made his previous employment history at CAL known to the other incoming members and while he had reservations sitting on a public board he was persuaded to be part of the new composition because of his love for the airline.

He said he spoke with Howai yesterday morning and it was a “mutual agreement” to not go forward with the appointment given his previous tenure at the airline.

“It was a very amicable discussion. It was a good decision,” he said.

Employees at CAL had indicated their concern to the Sunday Express when McNish was selected to the board.
For his part, McNish maintained that he had a one-year employment contract at CAL and he left the company after the contract expired in July 2009.

He told the Sunday Express that the then Arthur Lok Jack board had already begun discussions with Air Jamaica (AJ) for the acquisition of its routes and they had already identified a vice president of Human Resources from AJ to take over so he departed the organisation.
“I didn’t necessarily want to continue,” he said.

 The Shareholders Agreement with AJ was signed in May 2010 and the deal was finalised in June 2011.
Meanwhile, the Sunday Express understands that employee morale is at a low.

Howai has given the interim board a three-month deadline to diagnose the company’s issues and chart a way forward.

22

Football / Re: 2013 Pro Bowl Thread.

« on: May 19, 2013, 06:30:01 AM »

Carter fires Army into Pro Bowl semis.
By Nigel Simon (Guardian).

Kevon Carter scored a hat-trick as he and his Defence Force team-mates made up for a disappointing first-half to hammer T&TEC 5-0 in their Digicel Pro Bowl quarterfinal at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo on Friday.

Joining the defending champions Defence Force in Friday’s semifinal were North East Stars, two-time winner DirecTV W Connection and league debutants, Central FC.
 
Prior to his team’s kick off of its title defence, coach Ross Russell said his Defence Force squad, recently crowned league champions for a second time in three years would be coming out to put on a show. However, during the first 45 minutes, Russell was left a frustrated man and Carter, Richard “Shaka” Roy and Jerwyn “Bally” Balthazar all wasted numerous chances against a T&TEC side that provided little punch up front.
 
The Army/Coast-Guard combination finally broke the deadlock from an unlikely source in the 63rd minute when defender Rodell Elcock headed into an open goal after goalkeeper Akini Adams failed to collect a right sided Corey Rivers corner.

Five minutes later Carter made amends for his earlier misses when he tapped home at the far post froma left sided Aklie Edwards centre and in the 70th minute he extended the advantage to 3-0 by starting and finishing off a next exchange of passes at the top of the T&TEC penalty-area by firing through the legs of Adams.
 
Any hopes of a T&TEC comeback was dashed in the 78th minute when Ross Russell Jr, a former national youth player and son of the coach Ross Russell unleashed a powerful left footer than found the bottom right hand corner of Adams’ goal, after an intended pass to substitute Devorn Jorsling from Carter fell in his path.

With seven minutes left in the contest, Carter completed his hat-trick with another close range tap-in, this time froma right sided centre by Kerry “Crampy” Joseph. At the other end of the field, T&TEC’s youthful duo of Shackiel Henry and Nathaniel Garcia along with the experienced Simeon Augustus were starved of any real efforts on goal.
 
In fact, T&TEC’s only real shot on goal came in the 83rd minute through Antuan John from a pass by substitute Anthony Noriega, but it was patted down by goalkeeper Kevin “”Barthez” Graham to preserve a clean sheet as his team stormed into the semifinal where it faces W Connection on Friday at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya.

The second match at Mucurapo was a much more even affair, with both Rangers and Stars enjoyed some ball possession. But as the match progressed Stars began to dominate and took a 1-0 lead in the 27th when the nippy Kennedy Hinkson collected a pass at the top right hand corner of the box, wrong footed his marker and curled a right footed shot past the outstretched hands of goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams.
 
Stars took a 2-0 lead on the stroke of half-time, through midfielder Marcus Gomez, beating Williams low on his near post while Kareem Moses added the third, two minutes into the second-half to set up a semis clash with Central FC.

Down at Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva, ay 24 May at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya, W Connection in search of its third Pro Bowl title after being victorious in 2004 and 2007 got off to a perfect start when Andrei Pacheco blasted in a ninth penalty strike past goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel for an early 1-0 advantage. This after Samuel upended Hashim Arcia inside the area and was whistled by referee Gyasi Mc Donald for the infringement, and cautioned as well in the process.
 
Caledonia had two chances to get even, through striker Akim Armstrong in the 25th minute, and a minute later, defender Aubrey David, but both players missed the target.  The Morvant/Laventille club was made to rue those chances as four minutes after the restart W Connection doubled its lead to 2-0 when goalkeeper, Samuel charged down a left footed free-kick from Pacheco, which fell to Neil Benjamin Jr, for an easy finish.

Eight minutes later, Caledonia, beaten 5-2 in last year’s final by Defence Force got back into the contest when defender Aubrey David was first to react to a free-kick from Densill Theobald which crashed off the upright, and pounced on the loose ball tom fire past goalkeeper Alejandro Figueroa.

However, that was as close as Caledonia would get as Hashim Arcia collected a pass from Pacheco before firing past Samuel and into the far corner off the upright for a 3-1 scoreline in the 79th.
 
Pacheco who had one of his better outings on the night almost added a fourth in the second minute added-on time, but he blasted over the bar from the edge of the six yard box while his team-mate, Colombian Christian Viveros took the gloss off his team’s comfortable win by picking up a straight red card for an off the ball altercation with Caledonia’s Nathan Lewis.

The winners of Friday’s semifinal will clash on Wednesday May 29 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo for the winner-take-all $100,000 prize which will be increased by a percentage of the gate receipts, as well as a new trophy up for grabs.
 
There are also individual awards for the “Top Scorer”, “Most Valuable Player” and “Most Outstanding Coach” of $2,000, $2,000 and $3,000 respectively.

23

Football / Re: 2013 Pro Bowl Thread.

« on: May 19, 2013, 06:27:13 AM »

Connection sends Caledonia stumbling out of Digicel Pro Bowl; Stars soar into semis.
ttproleague.com.

Caledonia AIA’s aspiration to meet Defence Force in the semi-final round of the Digicel Pro Bowl was flattened on Friday night when the Morvant-Laventille club fell to a 3-1 defeat against DIRECTV W Connection at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

And up at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, in the second Pro Bowl quarterfinal fixture at that venue, North East Stars whipped St. Ann’s Rangers 3-0.

Kennedy Hinkson opened the scoring in the 27th minute, Marcus Gomez doubled the advantage by the 45th minute and Kareem Moses sealed the comfortable win by the 47th minute to send the Stars into the semis on Friday 24 May at the Marvin Lee Stadium.

The Stars moves on to meet Central FC, 1-0 winners over Police FC in the first match at the Couva venue, while Connection are against the newly crowned Digicel Pro League Champions Defence Force.

Defence Force slammed a 5-0 win over T&TEC in their clash at the Port of Spain venue.

Caledonia will now shift its focus on a two-match play-off against Jamaican club Portmore United next week for qualification into the CONCACAF Champions’ League, while T&TEC, Police and Rangers all saw an end to their 2012-2013 season on Friday night.

Caledonia suffered a poor start when Connection’s Andrei Pacheco blasted a penalty strike past goalkeeper Glenroy Samuel for an early 1-0 advantage by the 9th minute, after Samuel upended Hashim Arcia inside the area less than a minute earlier. Samuel received a yellow card from referee Gyasi Mc Donald in the process.

The Morvant-Laventille club tried plucking itself back before the break with Akim Armstrong missing the target in the 25th minute following a neat buildup, and a minute later, wingback Aubrey David headed just wide of the Connection goal.

However four minutes after the break, it was Connection that doubled its advantage for a 2-0 result.

A stinger of a free-kick by Pacheco from the right of the field was charged down by Samuel, but he was beaten on the rebound picked up by Neil Benjamin despite getting glove to the ball.

The entertainment climaxed moments later when Caledonia reduced the deficit 1-2 by the 52nd minute.

An excellent free-kick by Densill Theobald from distance crashed off the upright, and Aubrey David was alert and pounced early to hit past goalkeeper Alejandro Figueroa.

But Connection, who defeated Caledonia back to back in previous meetings, had another one in the net.

After goal-scorer Pacheco guided a Hashim Arcia cross wide of the goal in the 54th minute, and Surinamese forward Stefano Rijssel watched his decent strike in the 62nd minute foiled by Samuel, Connection’s persistence paid off again.

Pacheco was involved again when he slipped a pass to the right of the area for Arcia, and the lanky Connection attacker completed his team’s third item for a 3-1 win, with the ball hitting inside the far upright before nestling into the back of the net.

And in the second minute of five minutes added-on time, Pacheco missed out on his double when he hammered overbar from the edge of the six yard area.

One Connection player left the pitch in disappointing fashion though. Referee Mc Donald issued defender Christian Viveros a direct red card in injury time for striking the face of Caledonia’s Nathan Lewis.

Full Digicel Pro Bowl quarterfinal round results

Defence Force 5—0 T&TEC FC
Rodell Elcock 63’, Kevon Carter 68’, 70’, 83’, Ross Russell Jr. 78’

Central FC 1—0 Police
Peter Byers 61’
 
North East Stars 3—0 St. Ann’s Rangers
Kennedy Hinkson 27’ Marcus Gomez 45’, Kareem Moses 47’

W Connection 3—1 Caledonia AIA
Andrei Pacheco 9’(pen), Neil Benjamin 49’, Hashim Arcia 79’  ;  Aubrey David 52’

Teams

W Connection—Alejandro Figueroa, Clyde Leon (capt.) (Silvio Spann 55th), Daneil Cyrus, Gerrard Williams, Hashim Arcia (Jomal Williams 82nd), Andrei Pacheco, Leslie Joel Russell (Eligah Joseph 76th), Christian Viveros (Red Card), Stefano Rijssel, Kurt Frederick, Neil Benjamin.

Unused substitutes—Aquelius Sylvester, Jerrel Britto, Alvin Jones, Tremain Shayn Paul.

Coach—Stuart Charles Fevrier.

Caledonia AIA—Glenroy Samuel (Yellow Card), Stephan David (capt.), Aubrey David, Colin Nelson, Keyon Edwards (Miguel Alejandro Romeo 73rd), Akim Armstrong (Abdallah Phillips 82nd), Nical Stephens (Yellow Card), Akeem Thomas, Densill Theobald, Vurlon Mills (Jamal Gay 60th), Nathan Lewis.

Unused substitutes—Shemel louision, Nuru Abdullah Muhammad, Aaron Lester, Odelle Armstrong.

Technical Director—Jamaal Shabazz / Coach—Jerry Moe.

24

Entertainment & Culture Discussion / Re: Happy 60th Birthday to David Rudder for today!!

« on: May 18, 2013, 06:41:18 PM »

Had the pleasure experience of meeting Rudder 3 times and all 3 times he acted like a total fool. He is a big headed.....

Maybe yuh ketch him when he head was bad...or he doh like supercat music

I met him twice in Manhattan and once at JFK.

My hands is still waiting to be shook.   

Maybe he just didn't like me.

In any case I loved the man music but after those incidence I never bothered buying any again.

25

Football / Re: T&T combine coming to Brooklyn.

« on: May 18, 2013, 06:48:32 AM »

Fyzoman, I just getting kicks on him because I know he dont have a manger, he is a gapper in Brooklyn, when I mention it to one of his boys who made the contact, de man was cracking up too.

He had 7 caps for T&T, I doubt I would be paying for any interview.

26

Football / Re: 2013 WoLF Thread

« on: May 18, 2013, 03:37:33 AM »

Malick aim for second win.
T&T Newsday Reports.

MALICK CITY FC will be aiming for their second straight win in the Premier Division of the Trinidad and Tobago Women’s League Football (WoLF) tomorrow.

Malick, who defeated reigning champs Real Dimension in the opening round last weekend, will be hosting Tobago United at Pascal Ground, Maraval at 4 pm.

Three other games in the Premier Division will be staged today. A double-header has been carded for the Dibe Recreation Ground, Long Circular, St James, with Step By Step FC tackling Defence Force at 2 pm and Real Dimension opposing the Trinidad and Tobago Under-17 team two hours later.

And Trincity Nationals are also gunning for their second win in a row, as they are due to face St Ann’s Rangers at the Eddie Hart Ground, Tacarigua, today at 4 pm. Matches in the First Division Group “A” and Group “B” will be contested tomorrow.

In Group “A”, Barataria Ball Players will entertain Malabar All Stars at the St George’s College Ground, Barataria, from 4 pm while, an hour later, Tunapuna Titans will tackle Diego Martin Central United at Constantine Park, Macoya.

And, in Group “B”, games will begin at four o’clock, with La Brea United hosting the Ministry of Sport Schoolaz at Brighton Ground and Petrotrin entertaining Civic Centre Pioneers at Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre.

27

Football / Re: 2013 Pro Bowl Thread.

« on: May 18, 2013, 03:36:07 AM »

Digicel proud to sponsor Pro Bowl.
T&T Newsday Reports.

WENDY ALLEYNE, sponsorship and promotions manager of Digicel Trinidad and Tobago Limited, expressed her group’s delight in sponsoring the Digicel Pro Bowl yet again.

“Digicel is proud for the fourth consecutive year to be title sponsor of the Digicel Pro Bowl and has noted that the competition has become one of the important events on the football calendar due to the fact that the participating teams display admirable sportsmanship and incredible talent which keep the fans coming back for more,” she said at Wednesday’s launch at the Queen’s Park Oval.

Alleyne continued, “Digicel is happy that the teams have consistently shown a passion for the game and no doubt this commitment to the sport could only lead to opportunities for advancement as a forum where players can be selected to play at the national, regional and international levels of the game.”

She went on to state, “Digicel is always mindful of the benefits that sport can bring to the youth and how it can change lives. It is this conviction that has propelled us to partner with organisations such as the TT Pro League to engage in sport in a meaningful way.”

Alleyne highlighted Digicel’s role as arguably the biggest sponsor of football throughout the Caribbean region.

“In addition to our partnership with the TT Pro League, we also support various regional championships and continue to be dedicated to developing the sport from the ground up,” she said. “One such property that we’re especially proud of is the Digicel Kickstart Clinics and Academy - which caters to youngsters with talent, providing them with a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

28

Football / Skeene has high hopes for Pro League.

« on: May 18, 2013, 03:35:03 AM »

Skeene has high hopes for Pro League.
T&T Newsday Reports.

DEXTER SKEENE, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the TT Pro League, is hopeful that the top local football league can become “one of the best professional leagues in the CONCACAF region.”

Speaking at Wednesday’s launch of the 2013 Digicel Pro Bowl tournament at the Digicel Corporate Box, Queen’s Park Oval, Skeene noted, “the League has not only survived it has thrived.”

He said, “key performance indicators show that our clubs are the best in the Caribbean region by winning the CFU (Caribbean Football Union) Club Championships and as a result, they have qualified for the CONCACAF club championships.

“Another factor is the competitiveness of the Digicel TT Pro League,” he continued. “On the penultimate day of matches, two clubs Defence Force and Caledonia AIA were still in line to win the League competition and on the last day, third place was still up for grabs with Central FC and North East Stars in the running.

“Let me officially congratulate the Defence Force on winning the League and Central FC for a very good performance in their first year.”

Skeene also touched on the marketability of players and performance at the national level.

“We have seen an unprecedented movement of players to foreign clubs during the past year which signifies that the management of our clubs has improved in the business of professional football and are equipping themselves with the necessary skills and personnel to run a successful professional football business,” he said. “The League provides the platform for the next generation of national footballers and coaches.

“Our young coaches are making a name for themselves in the person of people like Ross Russell, Marvin Gordon, Angus Eve, Earl Jean, Richard Hood and Dean Pacheco. The Digicel TT Pro League has afforded these young men the opportunity to work in a professional environment day in day out honing their skills like the Fergusons and Mourinhos of the world.

“In addition, our local players continue to play a major part having been selected for the Trinidad and Tobago teams forming a major part of the nucleus.”

He also touched on the sponsorship factor, stating, “the amount of partners continue to grow, but our current corporate partners can rest assured that the League’s view is one of exclusivity.

“We want to make sure that we build relationships with corporate partners and afford them the brand platform to meet their strategic objectives,” continued the ex-TT striker. “This is to say that our existing partners have treated the league with respect. We will certainly discuss with our current partners the mutually beneficial opportunities.”

29

Football / 2013 Tobago Football League Thread.

« on: May 18, 2013, 03:31:08 AM »

THA gives $.2m to football league.
T&T Guardian Reports.

The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) will contribute over $215,000 in prize money to the Tobago Football League for its 2013 competitions, assistant secretary in charge of Youth Affairs and Sport Assemblyman Jomo Pitt disclosed at Wednesday’s post-Executive Council media briefing.

The league will run from June 1 to November 30 on recreation grounds across Tobago. Most of these grounds have already been lit or are in the process of having floodlights installed. Pitt said at the end of the season the grounds will be rested in preparation for the cricket season, which starts in January 2014.

He also told the briefing that laying of the Mondo track at the Dwight York Stadium was on schedule and, weather permitting, will be ready for use in August. However, he said, an assessment of work on the infrastructure at the stadium was still to be done by a consultant, who has not yet been appointed by the Sport Company of T&T.

Jomo said an Assembly committee will, however, be appointed to determine if the stadium’s infrastructure was safe for use in the meantime.

30

General Discussion / Re: OMG Gays take to PoS streets today

« on: May 18, 2013, 03:28:33 AM »

Coudray: Gay rights out of proposed gender policy
By Yvonne Baboolal (Guardian).

God still reigns supreme in T&T, according to the Constitution, and gay rights will not be a part of the Government’s draft national policy on gender and development. Minister of Gender, Youth and Child Development Marlene Coudray, finally breaking her silence on the controversy yesterday, said gay rights were not a part of the gender policy which is now before Cabinet, nor were they likely to be.

Coudray was responding to questions on a survey by the Caribbean Development Research Services Inc, which reportedly showed the majority of citizens were either tolerant or accepting of homosexuality and that it was not politically dangerous. Coudray, who was at an open house held by her ministry at the Centre of Excellence, was asked whether gay rights would be included in the gender policy.

“There is nothing in (it) that speaks to any gay rights. There were rumours all over the place that certain things are in the draft that are not,” she said. “The draft policy is before Cabinet and those issues were not part of it, so they are not likely to come up to affect the policy at all at this stage.” Coudray said this decision was not hers, but the unanimous wish of the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO), which represents 25 different religious organisations, and a large number of other faith-based organisations.

“It really is not up to me,” she said. The ministry held two consultations with the religious groups at Capital Plaza on April 24 and May 3 and, according to IRO head Pundit Harrypersad Maharaj, they sent out a warning in advance to the Government that it would not get support for the legalisation of homosexuality.

Coudray said, “I convened a meeting with faith-based organisations and the IRO and its members and we had a very extensive, open and frank discussion with them. “We had to extend the discourse to two days and we came to terms with what they would like to see (in the gender policy). They reminded us the Constitution is based on the supremacy of God. “So those views are documented to be put forward. Proposals were formulated to be sent to the Finance and General Purposes Committee.”

The F&GP is a subcommittee of Cabinet. The minister said some word on the policy would be coming soon. Asked if a representative of the gay community had met with her, she said no one sought to meet with her as minister. Asked to comment on the  survey, Coudray replied, “We need to know the sample size and all of that.”

She said it took 30-plus years for the gender policy to come into being but it had never before reached the level of Cabinet, which was something to be commended. She said the delay was due to an effort to hear everyone’s views. Maharaj, noting that religious groups represented a significant proportion of the population, said the argument put forward was that gender, according to religious beliefs, constituted male and female, not homosexuals or other.

“We all unanimously agreed that from time immemorial humans were created as male and female, not homosexuals and all these kinds of things.” Maharaj said Leela Ramdeen, of the Catholic Commission for Social Justice, who was at the consultation with the minister, referred to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court which declared that the term gender referred only to the two sexes of male and female.

Maharaj said while there might be objections to the religious community’s position, its members are holding to it very firmly. “We can’t tell people how to live their lives but we are saying it must not become lawful. “If the Government ever intends to legalise same-sex marriages in T&T, we are sending out a warning in advance it will not get the support of the religious community.”