Joseph assumes GFA Presidency

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, August 2, 2010 - Newly elected President of the Grenada Football Association (GFA) Cheney Joseph has promised to create an atmosphere of reconciliation in local football and engage and utilise human resources at the association’s disposal.

Delivering his acceptance speech at the GFA Extra-ordinary General Council Meeting at the Grenada Trade Centre’s Annex on Saturday, Joseph said that the spirit of reconciliation must start now in order for football to progress in Grenada.

“It is now time to move forward into a new chapter of football, one that will be respectful of the role of each member of this association. The past cannot be forgotten; however we must use it for the positive growth and development of holistic plans for all,” he said.

“We must be willing to work closer and utilise the limited human resources that are still available,” he said. “It is in this context that I intend to engage Mr. Marlon Glean, immediate past First Vice President of the GFA as a useful conduit to secure additional assistance through his contacts for the benefit of Grenada’s football”.

He said that under this new Executive Committee, they will seek to heal the wounds, and engage all parties in the decision-making process when required. The new President also outlined his approach to the development of football on the island.

He said that youth development, women’s football, parish leagues and coaching and refereeing certification programmes are among the targeted areas for urgent attention.

In an emotional speech, which also marked the first anniversary of his marriage and the tragic death of his mother exactly one year ago, Joseph lauded the support of the local football community as well as CONCACAF and FIFA, especially President Jack Warner and John Collins, FIFA’s Legal Committee Member.

Joseph, who previously served as a vice president, was elected unopposed, along with Paul Roberts as Vice President and parish representatives except St David and St. Mark.

The parish representatives are Bruce Swan (St. Patrick), Peter Blair (St. Andrew), Wayne James (St. John) and Patrick Francis (St. George). They were elected by parish clubs and teams affiliated to the GFA.

Among the first task of the new executive is to give immediate attention to the GFA’s debt which is almost EC$300,000.