CUBAN boxing coach Francisco Roldan has called for major investment in the sport if Guyana is to make an impact on the world stage. Roldan was speaking at his farewell ceremony at the New Thriving Restaurant on Monday which was hosted by the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport.
“Guyana has much talent. I see it every day but there needs to be more investment if we are to go to the next level. I am confident that this present government will do good for boxing. It is time.” Roldan declared.
The Cuban left Guyana after a three-year stint which saw him being in charge of national teams and conducting coaches’ training clinics. However, his tenure was curtailed by lack of resources.
Roldan singled out middleweight boxer Dennis Thomas as a rising star and recommended that the Guyana Boxing Association pay special attention to the gangly policeman.
Meanwhile, GBA president Steve Ninvalle labelled Roldan’s tenure as “enlightening”.
“We were able to learn much from this honorary Guyanese citizen and it is now up to our senior coaches to take up the mantle,” Ninvalle said.
Roldan received several teary hugs and was presented with a certificate and tokens of appreciation.