Africa-Press – Liberia. The 1st vice president of the Liberia Football Association (LFA), Sekou Konneh, says club administrators “must have systems” to ensure that the management of football is conducted differently. He believes that in order to elevate Liberia’s football to the same level as its counterparts, such as Ghana, the bare minimum requirements outlined by FIFA and CAF must be implemented.
Speaking at a two-day FIFA-sponsored club licensing workshop for clubs in the women’s upper, lower, and community divisions, Professor Konneh stated that the club licensing regulations introduced by FIFA and CAF are not intended to target clubs or stifle critical voices.
“We must establish systems if we want to see a change. The difference between Ghana and Liberia lies in the system. We have requested CAF and FIFA to allow us to implement these minimum requirements,” said Professor Konneh.
“We understand that not every club will have the same resources as LISCR. So we suggest simply setting up a room in your house, NGO, or organization as your office. These are some of the minimum requirements we have been implementing because we want the club licensing system to succeed in Liberia,” added Konneh.
However, the acting president of the LFA commended administrators for their contributions to the growth and development of football. He acknowledged that club administrators consistently participate in various training sessions and meetings organized by the LFA to improve the game.
“It is always a pleasure to engage with stakeholders because we are committed to enhancing your capabilities. Some of us, who are currently at the LFA in leadership positions, were club officials in the past. You are here because of your passion for football,” stated Konneh.
“Football is addictive. You are making tremendous sacrifices today. Today’s stakeholders are tomorrow’s potential leaders in the LFA. We expected a full house here today because we have 32 clubs across all women’s divisions. We can only express our gratitude for your presence,” Konneh concluded.
Also addressing the program, LFA 3rd Vice President Jodie Reid-Seton urged administrators to share the knowledge they have gained with others to ensure the smooth operation of their clubs in their absence. She emphasized that club licensing was introduced to establish standards for clubs.
“As you leave here after two days, we want you to share your knowledge with others so that the club can function even when you are not around. Please share your knowledge,” pleaded Reid-Seton.
“Our role is to assist you in regulating and structuring your clubs. FIFA aims to standardize the game, which is why it introduced club licensing. So, when we talk about standards and professionalism, it all begins with club licensing,” she added.
Henry Browne, LFA Technical Director, encouraged club officials to contribute to the growth of their clubs by providing roles and responsibilities for technical staff and players.
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