Coming off what was described as the club’s worst ever season, St Ann’s Rangers are pleading to its players, “play with heart” in 2010.
In their quest of recovery, Chairman of the club Richard Fakoory called on players to play their part in helping St Ann’s Rangers out of last season’s slump.
“We will continue doing what we have done over the years and battle on in the League,” said Fakoory.
“But players must also understand their roles at the club. We need to reach somewhere if we are to attract sponsors. And I think I got it in them this year that they must play for Rangers with Ranger hearts. It’s like playing for country first and not just about expecting high salaries.”
Fakoory labeled last season ninth position finish and failure to make impacts in the knockouts as his club’s worst ever season since joining the TT Pro League in 2006.
He also stressed that Rangers continues to suffer without substantial sponsorship and deplorable ground conditions at the President’s Ground.
“It’s always about finance to the key to success. Just like the saying the one who has the most corn feeds the most chickens. We started off good with our youths and over the years we maintained a lot of youths in our club and we had a good couple years,” continued the Rangers chairman.
He added, “But last year has been probably our worst year. And its all finance as well as not having the proper grounds available to us. If the players can’t train properly, then we cant have the best team.”
He also noted that the loss of key players Grenadians Ricky Charles, Shane Rennie, Errol Mc Farlane (USL), Keyon Edwards (Caledonia AIA), Shane Mattis (Ma Pau SC) due to financial restrictions also affected the team’s performaces.
Rangers already have the commitment of Elijah Belgrave, Josimar Belgrave, Devon Modeste and Adrian Narine for the 2010 season. While Christon Thomas, Coneal Thomas and Jevon Morris were also offered new contracts are yet to sign.
“We have no new players at this point,” said Fakoory. “Most of our new players will come from our farm (youth) teams. But what I can say…is that if we are to sign anyone outside of the club, then the must have a Ranger heart.”
Anthony Streete will continue as Head Coach, Reserve Team coach Dean Pacheco will continue as senior team assistant coach. And Clayton Morris continues as Youth Technical Director.
St Ann’s Rangers Senior and Reserve pre-season will kick off following the Carnival festivities, however the Youth teams will begin training on Saturday 6 February from 9am at the President’s Ground, St Ann’s with open screenings.