Football will be played like never before, once the pandemic ends, vows Marslowe

— urges players and fans to observe COVID-19 guidelines

By Timothy Jaikarran

The Bartica Football Association have seen the fruits of their labour under the leadership of President Alden Marslowe. However, in March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic was the proverbial thorn in their side, as their plans for the year had to come to a halt.

Nevertheless, the BFA did not give up, they continued to press on; and today, in 2021, things are looking a bit more promising.
In an exclusive interview with BFA President Alden Marslowe, this publication asked what are his views on things at the moment, and Marslowe replied, “The COVID-19 pandemic is very much still here in our midst. This region (Region 7) has recorded 37 cases in the past 48 hours, a great number of those from Bartica. And so the BFA, like the other football associations, are basically active under the surface, but there are no physical football activities allowed nor happening at this time.

“Once things return to normal, and we are given permission, we plan to play football like never before; but, tragically, they remain just plans for the entirety of the past year. The decision for a restart of football activities in the country rests solely with the Government of Guyana. So far, the gazetted national order does not make provision for a return to play,” he explained.
Marslowe explained that football is a physical sport that requires maximum fitness. No permission to return to training has been given, hence the players have been doing their own physical work to ensure their personal fitness in whatever way is suitable.
The BFA boss has said it is his hope that football gets back “its time” before the year is long spent. He noted that the BFA have been making many plans, and while the GFF’s calendar of activities contains much action for the countrywide development of the game, the BFA have its plans for both play and capacity-building. Moreover, it must not be forgotten that clubs carry out their own programmes.
Marslowe is therefore urging both players and fans to be patient, and to respect all COVID-19 guidelines.

“I just want to encourage all football players, fans and the general public: Be patient and be respectful of the COVID-19 prevention guidelines. At this time, I think it would be better to trust our administrators in their approach to the pandemic, and if we comply with the recommendations, then we should see a reduction in COVID-19 cases and a faster return to play.”