IN an unprecedented move, on Thursday, stakeholders involved in Saint Lucia’s inaugural Semi-Professional Football League [SPFL] gathered at a media briefing to provide an update on the renumerations granted to players participating in the tournament.
The SPFL was officially launched in January. Matches kicked off in March, with the first payment of salaries and training allowances made to players in May.
The SPFL is a collaboration between the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports and the Saint Lucia Football Association [SLFA] Inc. The SPFL tournament began, in March, with a total of Ten Tier 1 and Nine Tier 2 teams competing, representing the 19 district leagues affiliated to the Saint Lucia Football Association [SLFA] Inc.
The government committed more than $1 million to support the SPFL, as the SPFL season spans seven months. Each Tier 1 team can earn a maximum of $13,190 monthly during the season.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre-led administration’s significant monetary contribution to the SPFL’s operations, is viewed as ‘a life-changing investment in the local football community’. For the first time, aspiring footballers are getting paid to play the ‘beautiful game’.
While addressing the gathering, PM Pierre noted that it was imperative for players to be compensated for their efforts while striving to be productive.
The Castries East MP stated it was also vitally important to ensure that sporting facilities are protected. He said the objective of this initiative was geared towards improving the quality of life of people, and particularly the youth by helping them to nurture and develop their skills.
He said the government remains commitment to funding the semi-pro league and providing additional funds for its promotion and marketing.
Sports Minister Kenson Casimir assured that the government is committed to see the SPFL flourish, and stressed that it was not only important for players to be compensated. He said programmes are also available for players to attain academic and technical skills towards their overall development of becoming professional athletes.
SLFA President Lyndon Cooper acknowledged the input of the government for helping to bring this initiative to fruition, so footballers can earn just rewards for their effort. He said the SLFA is committed to see the SPFL venture reach its maximum capacity and to empower lives.
Cooper adds that the unit is focused on maximizing the output of players to the fullest, and this includes developing techniques to keep in tune with the science of football.
SPFL’s CEO Francis Daniel emphasised the impactful inauguration of the League on everyone involved and its potential for the country’s development.