National Sports Commission pledges $3M towards East Demerara Football League

The East Demerara Football Association (EDFA) has received a major financial injection. The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, through the National Sports Commission (NSC), has committed to a substantial $3 million sponsorship for its upcoming senior league, which kicks off on May 1.

The significant investment was announced at a presentation, highlighting the government’s commitment to bolstering grassroots football across the nation.

Eleven teams from the East Demerara region will compete for the title: Haslington, BV/Triumph, Plaisance, Golden Stars, Buxton Stars, Melanie, Victoria Kings, Airy Hall Stars, Buxton United, Mahaica Determinators, and Mahaicony Western Lions.

A lucrative prize pot awaits the teams, with the league champions set to pocket $500,000. Second, third, and fourth-place finishers will also receive significant rewards of $300,000, $200,000, and $100,000, respectively.

Individual excellence will be recognised with $50,000 and a trophy for the Most Valuable Player, Highest Goal Scorer, and Best Goalkeeper, while the Best Coach will receive $40,000 and a trophy.

Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle presented the sponsorship cheque to EDFA President Rickford Profitt, emphasising the NSC’s pride in supporting a league that will utilise several recently upgraded pitches on the East Coast, thanks to the Commission’s Ground Enhancement Programme.

“We believe it’s our duty to support initiatives like this, in line with His Excellency President Irfaan Ali’s ‘One Guyana’ vision,” said  Ninvalle.

“This support isn’t limited to EDFA; we’ve extended similar partnerships to other regional associations, including the Georgetown Football Association. The Ministry remains committed to working with all football stakeholders nationwide.”

He underscored the NSC’s ongoing dedication to sports development in Guyana, highlighting the investment in the EDFA League as a clear demonstration of this commitment.

 Ninvalle also commended the EDFA for their efforts in organising the tournament, which will run until the end of July.

EDFA President Rickford Profitt expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry and the NSC, describing the sponsorship as a significant boost for football in the region.

“We’re incredibly thankful not only for the support but for the full sponsorship of the league,” said Profitt. “It’s a proud moment, and I’m honoured to be part of this initiative to uplift football within the EDFA.”

He added that the Ministry’s positive response to their proposal reflects their strong commitment to football development.

Profitt also acknowledged the Ministry’s ongoing work to improve football grounds across the East Coast.

Further upgrades are expected following Minister Charles Ramson Jr. assurances.

“We’re not yet where we ultimately want to be in terms of facilities, but with this level of support, especially from the Ministry, we are confident that we are on the right path,” he stated.

“This sponsorship will go a long way in helping us raise the standard of football in East Demerara.”

Thanks to the Ministry’s interventions, the EDFA League will feature clubs from across the East Coast, with matches played at improved venues.

Profitt also highlighted that the competition will serve as a crucial platform for scouting new talent and strengthening club football in the region, aligning with the national aim of elevating the sport throughout Guyana.