Mills declares developmental youth programme a success

The coaching team of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) who will be in charge of the entity’s Academy Training Centre (ATC)
The coaching team of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) who will be in charge of the entity’s Academy Training Centre (ATC)

Vurlon Mills, Technical Development Officer (TDO) of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Academy Training Centre (ATC), has hailed the start of the developmental youth programme a success following large turnouts by participants.

This was disclosed during an exclusive interview with Stabroek Sport yesterday.

According to Mills, “Both sessions were a success. I am satisfied with the teamwork of the coaching staff and the GFA support staff. We are glad to be back to doing what we love. Improving the beautiful game here in Guyana. The kids were all excited to be there. I want to say thanks to my team for a great start and for the work we have done over the two sessions.”

Members of the female playing contingent of the GFA ATC.

He added, “The sessions are focused on getting everyone playing, allowing them to express themselves while the coaches observe with minimal coaching.”

The ATC of the GFA commenced on September 2nd at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Bourda, with the second session being held two days later. The next training date is penciled for Saturday at the same venue.

According to Mills, 86 boys attended the opening training session which also featured 10 girls. Similarly, the second session contained 98 boys and 10 girls. The coaching staff of the ATC, during the two sessions, consisted of Delon Cadogan, Akido Softleigh, Gregory Griffith, Trevor Burnett, Trevon Lythcott and Colin Nelson.

Members of the male component of the GFA ATC going through their drills at the GFC ground, Bourda.

Mills explained that the requisite COVID-19 protocols were observed to ensure the safety of the players and staff.

He explained, “The staff made sure that the COVID protocols were in place. Players washed their hands before entering the field, sanitized players hands before water breaks, no sharing of water bottles. All coaching staff wore masks during team talks and gatherings.

“I am asking all the clubs from the GFA to send their players between the ages of 11-16 to the ATC on Saturday at 8:30am at the GFC ground. This will give the players the opportunity to represent the association and possibly Guyana in the future.”