THE RACE for the presidency of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) continues to gain momentum as first vice-president of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Referees Association (TTFRA), Clynt Taylor, became the latest sporting enthusiast to announce his candidacy for the role as head of local football.
And with the TTFA Annual General Meeting scheduled for November 29, Taylor is hoping that his detailed background in Information Technology, Law and as a former independent Local Government candidate for Quinam/Morne Diablo (2010 and 2015), will significantly boost his chances of securing top position at the financially strapped fraternity.
“I am pleased and honored to announce my candidacy for president of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA),” explained Taylor yesterday. “During my years as a football administrator, I gained an understanding of the complexities of our unique predicament in football here in Trinidad and Tobago, including the TTFA’s capabilities and limitations.
In my candidacy, I see helpful and positive roles for the presidency.” With his last minute submission for candidacy, Taylor became the fourth applicant to contest the presidential role, as Veteran Footballers Foundation of Trinidad and Tobago vice-president Selby Browne also revealed his intention to join the race on Wednesday.
The will also be going up against DIREC TV W Connection president and CEO David John-Williams and incumbent president, Raymond Tim Kee, who has also sought to seek re-election.
Taylor outlined a detailed 10-year four point plan to which he intends to wow the voting population. “Most importantly, the primary role for me as the president will be to be an advocate for the people of Trinidad and Tobago in restoring decency, and integrity in the Association by removing the alleged stain of corruption, greed and selfish gains that pervades our ‘footballing’ community.” He believes that there are many issues that will come before the executive in the next four years.
They include but are not limited to financial issues, football development, international and local image, institutionalisation of departments and committees and self-sufficiency programmes.
In addition, Taylor thinks that the TTFA needs to strengthen its regional, community football, Beach Soccer, Women, Youth and Futsal programmes and all National Men and Youth teams. Taylor revealed that he possessed the ‘people skills’ that can be used to bring people together toward common goals and unity. He further indicated that the issues before the TTFA continue to be who can bring fiscal responsibility, accountability, transparency with sound judgment, to the organisation.