It means that once (again) we are recognized as being able to field a TEAM of talent that can compete on the world stage among others at the highest football sporting level.
We have had the successes of individuals over years gone by that influenced , e.g. Hasley Crawford, top personal performances in the atheletic arena. It is only recently that T&T is being recognized for having a relay Team of great talent. We need to build on that.
So in that respect when it comes to football, the Yorke, Latas, era will end by 2010. Who will be the new talent. Are we really as country encouraging men like Makesi (Fatima), to want to play for the Trinidad team.
When devoted people like Lookloy had a good youth program going in years gone by it was a way to keep the talent flowing.
As a country we need to take a pahe out of USA's books and use the world cup berth to develop our talent at all levels within the communities. From the 4yr olds up to the 28 yr olds...
There is no real reason for us a Football loving country to become like Haiti and let the politicians ruin our great opportunity to develop the sporting talent at all levels.. Most politicians are "waggonists" anyway
1. Lots of revenue flowing in from hydrocarbon. Uses some to INVEST in sport meaningfully. In the areas where Jack/UNC built stadiums INVEST in swiming pools, hockey fields, cricket nets, etc for community use. Put a couple small coverd stands on all recreation grounds. Allow families to feel comfortable taking the kids to the grounds to run some ball..
The sports megacomplex in south is a good start, but more, much more is needed. It not too late....
2. Crime in T&T is at all levels, most as a fall out from the drug trade where the big Dons using we youths as chess pieces and just distressing everybody. Murders can not stop by us just playing in the world cup. Look at Brazil, with all the foolball talent in the world, all the WorldCup trophies Rio is still a city in trouble.
3 For our World cup place to create a dent on the everyday Trini, he/she must care and want to live a positive life overcoming all challenges and striving for what is good. If PNM/UNC/MPM, whosever not good then say so, and make a difference. Don't jump on a band waggon. Fight for improvements to minimum wage, increased emplyment or look to create your own wage.
4. For our tiny nation, a place in the world cup has caused the world's cameras to focus on us. That is all of us. The doubles man, the coconut vendor, the taxi driver, even the ^%&*# dustbin "fart" bomber.
It is up to each any every proud individual to care enough to make good of this extra attention for the good of our contry's current and future generations.
How you ask... Report illegal activities to crimestoppers, police, etc. Demand better service from places like KFC, TSTT, etc.
Nuff said....