The Guyana Football Federation (GFF), on Friday officially launched its ‘Road to Portugal’ campaign which will see a designated Under-17 team, travel to Portugal, should everything go according to plan.
If all goes well, a representing Guyana U-17 team will be an accompanying team in the ‘First Future U-17’ tournament held in Aviero, Portugal from October 14-23, following an invitation on July 12, via GFF’s Facebook page.
According to Technical Development Officer, Linden France, the touring party should include some 18 players accompanied by seven officials and two teachers.
(at the head table from left) Laquisha Adonis, Lance Ferreira, GFF T.D.O. Linden France, GFF President Wayne Forde, GFF PRO Debra Francis along with members of the U-17 Golden Jaguars and their parents
This programme is designed as a developmental programme and the experience will be remarkable for the boys.
He noted that the main role of the teachers is to keep the boys up to date with their studies as the programme is during the academic year.
President of the Guyana Football Federation, Wayne Forde disclosed that the estimated cost for the tour is in the vicinity of $22 million, which he acknowledged is challenging sum to raise.
Nevertheless, GFF has seen the potential this trip has to offer for the young players and are fully aware of what is required to make this a reality.
The sum is expected to be raised through a series of fund raisers organised by two groups of parents who will set up fund raisers in aid of this trip.
Additionally, the GFF will be looking to seek assistance from its international friends who are supportive of developing the Guyana football team.
France added that the cost should not be looked at since the opportunity the youngsters are presented with cannot be measured in figures.
“This trip presents a chance for the guys to rub shoulders with professionals and seasoned footballers, put them on showcase for talent scouts from major clubs, as well as top quality training,” France said.
One of the parents of the youngsters, Lance Ferreira, pointed out that the GFF has been impressed with the performance of the guys, especially in the recently concluded tournament in the US Virgin Islands. Ferreira guaranteed the audience that the U-17 team will not disappoint.
Another parent pleaded for Guyana to get behind this venture, highlighting the passion and desire the boys possess to make Guyana proud.
Forde indicated that the GFF has not yet had any discussions relating to any specific figure that they will be willing to contribute towards the trip but noted that the GFF has access to funds for developmental programmes, such as this, and it can be expected that “the GFF will bridge the gap” if it is in their reach, bearing in mind it could be exhausting on the finances of the federation.
The team will travel under the branded name “Flour Power National U-17” squad as part of the contractual obligation the GFF has with NAMILCO through its five year sponsorship.
However, NAMILCO has not yet been approached by the GFF to negotiate their contribution towards the trip.
It must be brought into light that the touring squad has not been named and there is no guarantee that players will automatically be awarded a spot, but rather will have to earn their place.
Countries from all over the world, including South America, Central America, Asia, Australia and Europe, will be participating.
The GFF is asking the general public to support this venture and persons interested are kindly asked to make donations at the Republic Bank’s Water Street location, to account number 652-320-3.
