With the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) electoral congress less than 10 days away, former chairman of the Normalisation Committee Clinton Urling opined that change at the helm of the association can prove to be the catalyst for development.
In an exclusive interview with Stabroek Sport, Urling, who was appointed to administer the affairs of the body from October 2014 to November 2025 by FIFA, stated, “I’m optimistic about the potential for change in the leadership of Guyana’s Football Federation. Change, when approached thoughtfully, can be a catalyst for progress and improvement. There is significant work ahead, and the Federation must focus on forging stronger relationships with all stakeholders. This collaborative effort is essential to elevating the standard of football in our nation.”
The GFF elections are scheduled for December 9th at the National Training Centre in Providence. Though GFF President Wayne Forde has yet to officially announce his slate for the Congress, it is alleged by a source close to the federation that three changes have been made to his list, with Women’s Football Association boss Andrea Johnson, Den Amstel FC chief Denise Lovell, and Bartica Association leader Alden Marslow replacing Thandi McAllister, Carmel Williams, and Terrence Mitchell.
The source stated that the final slate comprises Forde, Bruce Lovell [1st Vice President], Rawlston Adams [2nd Vice President], Dion Inniss [3rd Vice President], Magzene Stewart [Ordinary Member], Ryan Farias [Ordinary Member], Marslow [Ordinary Member], Johnson [Ordinary Member], and Lovell [Ordinary Member].
Meanwhile, former GFF chief Franklyn Wilson presented his list of candidates to the federation on Wednesday, November 8th. His list of executives is listed as Vernon Burnett [1st Vice President], Ramesh Persaud [2nd Vice President], and Gregory Wickham [3rd Vice President], with Althea Scipio [Ordinary Member], George Clementson [Ordinary Member], Raul Jerrick [Ordinary Member], and Otis James [Ordinary Member] making up the rest of the list.
Wilson, who currently holds the post of Assistant Director of Sport, held the post of acting GFF President from 2011–2012, after incumbent Colin Klass was suspended by FIFA for his involvement in the Mohammed Bin Hammam ‘cash for votes’ scandal in 2011.
According to Urling, there is a need for an attractive football league and more football to be played at various levels, affirming, “A key priority is the reactivation of a dynamic and competitive league, which is fundamental to the development of the sport at both international and local levels. Additionally, securing access to the Providence Ground for international matches is crucial for showcasing our talents on a global stage.”
“Moreover, there is an urgent need to enhance and upgrade our football facilities across the country. This improvement will not only benefit current players but also ensure we have the infrastructure to support future generations,” Urling further stated. Additionally, Urling called for greater support for the grassroots of the sport, stating, “Finally, we must place greater emphasis on supporting grassroots and beach football. These foundational levels of the sport are instrumental in nurturing talent and expanding the reach of football across all communities in Guyana.”
