The Executive Committee of the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA), acting on the advice of the Steering Committee, will immediately disburse almost USD $146,000.00 to the 49 clubs that were active in the association’s competitions in the 2019/2020 season. The subsistence represents the first tranche payout and is in keeping with the FIFA Covid-19 Relief Plan. The clubs are also in line to benefit from USD$80,000.00 in-kind donation to be split amongst the organizations. The latter donation includes equipment and sanitizing products.
Each club is eligible to receive XCD $8,000.00 in assistance funds, following the successful application process. As mandated by the world governing body, FIFA, the clubs may use the funds for the following reasons:
- The restart of competitions (where the sanitary situation and government policy permit);
- The implementation of return-to-play protocols, including testing;
- The participation of national teams of all age categories in restarted competitions;
- The payment of staff costs and the (re)hiring of essential staff where necessary;
- The maintenance of football infrastructure;
- The development of football activities, including women’s football; and
- The payment of general administration and operating costs where the situation requires.
In keeping with FIFA’s mandates, the clubs must adhere to the reporting protocols, which are clearly outlined in the application. Application forms are available at the ABFA office at the Antigua Recreation Grounds from 9am to 2 pm, from Tuesday, August 25, 2020 until Friday, August 28, 2020.
The ABFA will review the compliance of the clubs and the reports in the first disbursement in finalizing the process and eligibility for a subsequent disbursement.
ABFA President Everton Gonsalves said the organization is bound by FIFA strictures, and expects that the clubs will do likewise.
“The global pandemic has untold implications for football, players and the administration of the sport. These funds are intended to support the football community, and the clubs have wide and varied ways in which they may be used. Generally, allocation must be under the principles of fairness and equity. As is the case with trust funds, the clubs are required to complete the relevant application and compliance forms, and we are confident that they will do so,” Gonsalves said.
“We agree with the Steering Committee that the allocation process is both fair and equitable, and we look forward to the cooperation and compliance of the clubs,” Gonsalves added.
The Steering Committee is comprised of:
- Daryl Michael (Ottos Rangers);
- Jason Knight (Swetes);
- Derise James (Willikies);
- Veron Epilus Edwards (Empire);
- Jason Basu Peters (Bendals);
- Terrence Allen (Mahico Stars); and
- Neto Baptiste (Independent)
ABOUT THE ABFA
The Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) is the governing body for football in Antigua and Barbuda. Established in 1928, the ABFA is a member of the Caribbean Football Union, Concacaf and FIFA. The ABFA administers local competitions and participates in those managed by CFU, Concacaf and FIFA.
The Executive Committee of the ABFA is Everton Gonsalves, President; Gwendolyn Salmon, Vice-President; Daryl Michael, Vice-President; Akeliah Hillhouse, Vice-President; Ruby Williams, Member; Rolston James, Member; Curtis Charles, Member; Barbara Coates, Member; and Arlene Josiah Member. The General Secretary is Rohan Hector.
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