THE Guyana Olympics Association (GOA) yesterday handed over a cheque of some $400 000 to the Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) in support of the men’s volleyball team, set to represent Guyana at the South American Men’s Under-23 Championships in Colombia, June 18-25.The donation was handed over at a simple ceremony held at the GOA headquarters, High Street. Handing over the donation on behalf of the GOA was the association’s secretary-general, Hector Edwards.
Receiving on behalf of the GVF was president of the Federation, John Flores, who lauded the GOA for its support, noting that the GOA has always been willing to support the sport.
“I want to thank the GOA, for their timely support, and their continued support, because they have always been supporting the volleyball federation.” Flores said.
The $400 000 represents only a small part of the overall budget to get the Guyana team to the event, where teams from all 13 of the South American countries are set to participate.
Flores shared that the overall budget to take the 17-man team to Columbia stands at $2.8M, even as he noted that the Federation is hopeful that other sponsors also will come on board to support the team.
“That is just part of the money we are looking for; hopefully we can attract more donors. I’ve written some other sponsors but they haven’t responded to date, but we’re very hopeful.” Flores commented.
A total 14 players and three officials are expected to travel to the event. The Federation recently shortlisted 18 players to train for the upcoming event.
Flores is also pleased so far with how things are going with the team.
“The squad that is going is mainly made up of players who won the Inter-Guiana Games in Suriname; it’s about ninety percent of that team. It’s a very optimistic and motivated squad.” Flores remarked.