JFF leadership debate an opportunity to boost stakeholder engagement

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Some among us may say, and with good reason, that the recent dispute between the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) and the Reggae Girlz has cast a shadow over Jamaica’s football. Perhaps it has; however, I choose to see it in a more positive light as a potential catalyst for greater stakeholder engagement that goes beyond those inside the inner circle of Jamaica’s football ecosystem. It also provides impetus for more open dialogue about sports governance, accountability and management practices, and how such practices can be refined to bring about significant improvements for Jamaica’s football.

The JFF’s election, set for January 14, 2024, could provide the platform for the start of a more inclusive dialogue in the form of a televised leadership debate or public forum, featuring the candidates running for the presidency of local football’s governing body. The candidates, and possibly a member or two from their proposed leadership team, would answer questions from an appropriately representative panel of experts, and the public via online participation.

Their answers could reveal important information about their vision, strategic goals, and plans for Jamaica’s football. Moreover, these answers and any opening or closing statements that the candidates may be allowed to make, could better position the public/fans and other key stakeholders to monitor the work and leadership of the successful candidate, as well as identify strategic opportunities for volunteering and supporting the administration.

While the general public is not eligible to vote (the president is elected by JFF delegates), a debate or public forum seems fitting, given the popularity of football in Jamaica, its socio-economic importance, and the interdependencies of sports, business, government, and the public.

After all, the public, particularly through youth participation in recreational and competitive football, continually replenishes the talent pool from which future Reggae Boyz and Girlz can be identified and developed.

Fans support the national teams, and directly and indirectly contribute to key sources of revenue, including match-day revenue, broadcast rights, sponsorships, and merchandising.

Sponsors, corporate partners and the Government provide meaningful resources (cash, goods, services) which help with cash flow, working capital, and brings programmes to life.

One of the local free-to-air TV stations or sports cable channels could get the ball rolling by writing to the candidates to gauge willingness and availability. If the candidates respond in the affirmative, the next step would be to quickly finalise the format of the debate and mobilise corporate support for what could be ‘must-see TV’.

DON DOBSON