January 29th, 2002
CIFA Disgruntled
Bruce Blake - General Secretary
Cayman Islands Football Association
The Cayman Islands Football Association
is very disturbed at the increasing use of indecent
language on the part of both players and spectators
at league matches.
As one of the most popular participant
and spectator sports in the Cayman Islands, and especially
one with which most youngsters identify, it is of
dire importance that we strive to maintain the integrity
of the sport.
It is not unusual to see toddlers
and small children at most league matches, not to
mention adolescents. It is our duty to set a proper
example for these children and to teach them wrong
from right. Exposure to such foul language from people
they look up to and idolize will only reinforce a
problem we already have with players verbally abusing
referees.
CIFA recognizes that it may be
very difficult for clubs to exercise 100 % control
over spectators associated with them, but every club
is expected to make every effort to discourage this
habit.
CIFA requests that spectators and
players alike exercise discretion and self-control
before, during, after and in the vicinity of all matches.
Let us make an effort to provide the best environment
for Cayman's current and future citizens.
All referees have been instructed
to be very vigilant on the field when it comes to
the use of indecent language and to view such behavior
as unacceptable. The Association views the use of
"abusive language" by players on and off
the field as a serious offence and is making every
effort to discourage the practice.
Bodden Town, Scheduled to meet
George Town does not seem to be too worried. Entering
the season as the reigning FA Cup champions the team
had hoped for a repeat of last season's glory and
have now refocused most if not all their energy on
the Foster's League Cup. "It will be three exciting
matches," said Albert McLean coach for BTFC,
"We'll just have to let our playing do the talking."
For sure the playing will do all
the talking this weekend.
This weekend's matches are scheduled
as follows:
Saturday March 9, 2002
FC International vs. North Side, 5pm Truman Bodden
Sunday March 10, 2002
Academy vs. Naya, 4pm Truman Bodden
Future vs. Scholars, 6pm West Bay
GTSC vs. BTFC, 6pm Truman Bodden
