The Dominica Football Association (DFA) has made good on its promise and has delivered to its affiliates.
A few weeks ago, president of the DFA Glen Etienne announced that the island’s governing body for football would be providing some much needed financial support to clubs.
On Thursday, at a press conference at the Football House in Bath Estate, the DFA presented a cheque of EC$5000 to all clubs participating in its various leagues and competitions. The sum presented represents the first tranche of direct support to clubs.
The clubs will receive the second tranche of a similar amount after they have demonstrated prudence in the expenditure of the first tranche.
In making the presentation, Etienne called on the clubs to make good use of the funds and to ensure that there is accountability.
“The DFA is pleased to be making the presentation to the clubs present here today. This sum represents the first tranche and upon presentation of how you have spent the money, the second tranche will be given to you.
“You must account for the money because the DFA has to give FIFA an account of its money, therefore, it is important that you have documentation,” stated the DFA boss.
Along with the financial contribution, clubs were also presented with football equipment which included balls, ball nets, pumps, and a coaches’ board.
In expressing gratitude for the gesture on behalf of the recipient clubs, manager of the WE United FC, Yvette Laurent, thanked that DFA for the timely monetary support. She added that the support would go a long way in assisting the clubs to meet some of their financial obligations. According to Miss Laurent, the effective running of a club is a serious and expensive venture and the contribution would help ease the burden.
The clubs entered into an agreement with the DFA whereby the money can be used for transportation to match venues, procurement of equipment, and medical supplies among others.
The money given to the clubs was DFA’s direct response to providing support for clubs affected due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The world’s governing body for football, FIFA, provided the funds which were distributed to all clubs. FIFA made available United States one million dollars to all 211 member associations to cushion the effects of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, FIFA provided half a million United States dollars to aid specifically with the development of women’s football.
Over 25 clubs were the beneficiaries of the funds.