Dear Editor,
While the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is moving apace with the installation of Artificial Turf, at Providence, East Bank Demerara, compliments of the FIFA-funded training facility, in the nation’s capital of Georgetown, the country’s oldest football club, Georgetown Football Club (GFC), possibly the oldest in the English-speaking Caribbean; is also moving steadfastly with its ongoing rehabilitation drive. Upgrading of its playing surface, entailing planting of grass in specific areas and filling of low spots is currently being done. A combination of “black sand” and a special type of earth, is being used in both instances. Within the next two weeks rolling of the playing surface will be done. Seating accommodation is also a priority, with containerized portable pre-fab aluminum stands, as the most practical solution. An electronic scoreboard, outdoor commentary and filming facility; gym, cage football, upgrading of the floodlights, enhanced warm up area, upgraded internal drainage and dressing rooms, landscaping and a flower garden are also being done. In relation to the landscaping, in excess of 35 truckloads of mud have already being utilized. To complement the internal works there is pressurized washing of concrete fences, and not forgetting a medical room. Additionally, two metal poles, 1 to either side of the North Road goalposts will be erected with a fitted net aimed at restricting footballs from being kicked out of the ground.
Externally, the North Road trench encompassing the entire length of the adjacent fence, was recently cleaned at the club’s expense and will be maintained hereafter. Likewise, the parapet and pall-off area (grass surface), moreso the latter, where advertising signs would be entirely visible. The vantage points are also applicable southward along Vlissengen Road, due West on Regent Street, where a few advertising spots are open for marketing. The internal concrete fencing has much more advertising space on offer.
However, with a decision still pending on the “dormant Olympic size swimming pool”, the extensive overall developmental works being undertaken is towards ensuring the GFC ground, achieves a first class rating compatible with hosting international club matches within the Caribbean Football Union (CFU). Last but not least, modernized substitute benches with sheds have been catered for. The ongoing rehabilitation has the blessings of the Executive Committee, consisting of: President, Ivor O’Brien; Senior & Junior Vice Presidents, Ivor English & Peter Baker, respectively, Secretary, Faizal Khan, Treasurer, Roger Perreira and club captain, Shad Fernandes.
Finally, kudos must be extended to Messr Roger Perreira, for his innovativeness and meaningful insight, in spearheading the modernisation programme, in the club’s 116th year of existence; ahead of the 120th anniversary observance in 2022.
Yours faithfully,
Lester Sealey
