East Coast FA benefits from additional financial support under GFF’s MFAP initiative

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has reaffirmed its continued support for its members associations and football development with a $1.5 million contribution to the East Coast Demerara Football Association (ECDFA) for the successful hosting of its 2025 Senior Men’s League.

The contribution, which GFF Third Vice-President, Dion Innis, officially handed over during the league’s opening ceremony at the upgraded Plaisance Sports Club Ground, was allocated as part of the Federation’s ongoing Member Financial Assistance Programme (MFAP).

Since the league’s launch in 2021, the Federation has contributed significantly through finance, materials and technical support.

The MFAP is a core component of the GFF’s strategic development plan and was designed to give member associations the financial resources and autonomy to deliver tailored football programmes or initiatives.

GFF President Wayne Forde describes it as an “essential operations toolkit” and has always been enthusiastic about empowering the Federation’s member associations to capitalise on the programme to fulfil their constitutional obligations.

Speaking during the ceremonial launch, Innis emphasised the historical significance of East Coast football and its consistent production of national talent.

“This league is more than a sporting event- it’s a continuation of a proud tradition. From this coast we’ve had outstanding players like Ramroop, Carl Cole, Dwain Jacobs, Ousman Juene- players who rose from humble community grounds to national and international stages,” Innis said.

He encouraged the young footballers to use the platform as a springboard for personal and professional development, adding, “This is your stage. Represent your communities with pride and integrity. Your journey could be the next East Coast success story.”

Innis also noted that while the passion for football is alive and well across the East Coast, continued development requires strong partnerships and sustainable support.

“Football development needs more than passion- it needs partners. The GFF is committed to working hand in hand with its members to ensure that our primary mandate of developing the game in all its forms is carried out throughout Guyana,” he stated.

He further called on the business community to play a greater role in supporting local clubs and facilities.

“Now is the time to get involved- support a team, assist in upgrading a ground, donate some gear. Your support can help change lives.”

After the league, the top team will qualify for the 2026 GFF Elite League playoffs, providing the winning team with an opportunity to play the highest level of football in Guyana.

The opening ceremony was attended by several key stakeholders, including the Honourable Charles Ramson, Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, as well as football executives and community representatives.

Over 11 clubs are expected to participate in this year’s league, with the newly rehabilitated Plaisance Sports Club Ground serving as a central venue.

In his closing remarks, Innis issued a rallying call to all involved: “Let’s make this a season of pride, unity, and excellence. When football is strong on the East Coast, football at the national level is made even stronger.”

The GFF remains committed to the long-term growth and professionalisation of football in Guyana through strategic investment, collaboration, and development initiatives. (Modified Press Release from the GFF)