Latest update December 20th, 2024 2:23 AM
Burnett pleads for another term
Incumbent President of the GFA Vernon Burnett and opposition candidate Lavern Fraser-Thomas share a light moment recently.
By Rawle Welch
President of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Vernon Burnett speaking with Kaieteur Sport just ahead of today’s Electoral Congress of the entity is pleading with the constituents to give him another term in office to finish off the work started two years ago. Burnett, a Lieutenant Commander in the Guyana Defence Force and someone who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Science is one of two candidates vying for the position of President of the Association with the other being Lavern Fraser-Thomas.
According to Burnett, he like his opponent is bringing a lot of administrative experience to the table, having had a responsible rank in the Army for the past 18 years serving as President of the football club and Manager of the team.
Burnett told this newspaper that one of his primary reasons for seeking re-election is to continue the work of the GFA, adding that what was achieved last Thursday during the visit of the FIFA / CONCACAF Team would have allowed a breath of fresh air to permeate within the football fraternity and that in itself signal hope for a brighter future for the sport.
“What was being fought for, for almost 15 years got settled with a few hours and even though it was a collective effort, it was still a good example of my commitment to see improvement in the game at both the administrative and technical levels,” Burnett stated.
He spoke of them being against the odds when they started two years ago, but their aim was always to deliver to the members, supporters and all those who were concerned about the path the sport had taken.
The career Army Officer said if re-elected it is his intention along with the support of his executive to give their unselfish and unreserved commitment to developing the sport.
Quizzed of what form that will take, he revealed that among the top priorites will be to be more inclusive as mandated by the visiting team that had urged all parties to put aside partisan postures for the good of the game, to embark on a robust programme that will cater for youths, the continued training of referees and coaches and assisting in strengthening the administrative arms of all clubs affilaited to the GFA.
He reckoned transparency and accountability will also be integral components to their existence should he regain office and that will be intimated to all clubs and sponsors.
Burnett said he is looking forward to consolidating the gains made over the period, adding that for that reason mainly, he should be given another chance.
The incumbent President closed by thanking his fellow members who served with him, clubs, sponsors, well wishers, supporters, Attorney-at-Law Roysdale Forde, National Sports Commission and the FIFA / CONCACAF Team for their support. He then wished the GFF well, while informing that if he returns to office he will engage them hopefully in an environment that could lead to the development of the game.
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