DIRECTOR of Sport, Christopher Jones recently handed over the equipment for the 2nd annual Ralph Green / East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-11 League to president of the association, Franklin Wilson at the former’s Office, Homestretch Avenue.
Jones who is a relative of Green, the USA based sponsor,told Wilson and EBFA Secretary Wayne Francois that Green was very pleased to once again be supporting the development of the young lads on the East Bank and its environs.
Complimenting the EBFA for its consistency in playing junior tournaments, Jones noted that it is absolutely important for a proper foundation to be set for young players who need to learn the fundamentals of the game early.
“Your association has been leading in this regard and you must be complimented. This Under-11 league provides an ideal platform for the eligible players on the East Bank to be seen and I am sure they will go on to do well at the other age group competitions and eventually at the national level. Keep up the good work; it is my pleasure to present these equipment on behalf of Mr. Green to you as I wish all the teams the best.”
Wilson in response expressed thanks to Jones and Green for his continued partnership in East Bank football development.
“Yet again, Mr. Green is exhibiting his love for the game and youths through his sponsorship of this very important age group level. Last year we had six clubs participating with Agricola Red Triangle emerging inaugural champions. This year we are on track to more than double last year’s amount of teams due to the excitement that the tournament had created.”
The players, Wilson said,displayed a high level of excitement and energy in the inaugural competition and he is sure the other clubs which did not participate have seen the wisdom in ensuring that they are a part of the action this time around.
“It is essential for clubs to ensure that they participate in these tournaments as it not only provides the platform for the players to develop their on-field skills, it also provides the opportunity for them to meet other players which allows them to improve their inter personal skills.”

This year’s competition is expected to kick off next weekend. Apart from the winning trophy, the top four teams will all receive medals whilst five top individual players will be rewarded with backpacks and trophies.
The individuals to be rewarded will be the Highest Goal Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, Most Valuable Player, Most Disciplined Player and Most Promising Player. Sixteen medals (16) would be each awarded to the winner, second and third placed teams while the fourth placed team would receive 16 participatory medals.
For the first time in any EBFA competition, customized balls would be used bearing the EBFA logo. This is a standard practice and Wilson informed that the association would be aiming to duplicate other competitions as far as practicable.
Thirty-four numbered playing vests, one first aid kit, two captain arm bands, five back-packs, 74 medals and the customized balls were donated. Wilson further informed that Green is currently working on securing branded tee shirts for each player.
Only Players born on or after January 1st, 2006 will be eligible to participate in the tournament.