Joseph Taylor will be at the helm of the T&T Football Referees Association (TTFRA) for the next two years after the association held its annual general meeting (AGM) last Sunday. Taylor will serve as president for the 2014 to 2016 term.
All the officers were re-elected unopposed except for two posts. Clynt Taylor was elected unopposed as first vice-president to replace his colleague from the South zone, Franklyn Phillip. Shelly Slater of the North zone was elected unopposed as assistant secretary/administration, replacing Clynt Taylor, who served previously in that capacity.
During discussions in the meeting, members stated that since the adoption of the FIFA regulations for the organization of refereeing in T&T, no structures have been embraced to give a voice to the referees who service the game in the country.
It was proposed that the TTFRA, being a full member recognised by the TTFA, with its years of experience and expertise in refereeing matters, is the appropriate body to become more active in advocating for the welfare of referees and better terms and conditions of service for the unsung heroes of the beautiful game.
As a result of this, a motion was moved by Osmond Downer and Robin Murray that the AGM directs the council of this association to take immediate steps to organise a meeting of all referees, regardless of affiliation, in the country. This motion will discuss matters pertaining to the welfare of referees and the way forward. The motion was unanimously adopted by the AGM.
The main objective of the TTFRA is to promote the cause of referees and refereeing. In this regard, it is hoped that all referees will let their voices be heard at this important gathering, which will be taking place in the near future.
List of Officers:
President: Joseph Taylor
First Vice-President: Clynt Taylor
Second Vice-President: Anastasia Griffith
Third Vice-President: Osmond Downer
General Secretary: Boni Bishop
Assistant Secretary/Finance: Ronald Geoffroy
Assistant Secretary/Administration: Shelly Slater
Assistant Secretary/Operations: Marcia Williams
Public Relations Officer: Robin Murray?