Watt seeking to resettle St James FA

Adrian Frater, News Editor

Western Bureau:

David Watt, who assumed the presidency of the St James Football Association (StJFA) on Tuesday following the sudden resignation of George Evans, will be moving to swiftly resettle the association, which is now in state of crisis.

"I was hoping to have a board meeting today (yesterday) to look at various matters including George's (Evans) resignation but I am not sure it will happen," said Watt, who was Evan's vice-president. "We are committed to have a board meeting within the next 48 hours."

Like several of his board members, Watt said he would be trying to get Evans, who is now away in England, to reconsider his decision to resign whenever he returns to the island.

"Our priority at this time is to complete all unfinished competitions with a view of ensuring that our sponsors get value for their sponsorship monies," said Watt. "George (Evans) served us well as president and he also enjoyed the confidence of our sponsors, so naturally we would want him to reconsider."

Stung by the embarrassment caused by an unauthorised email that was sent to the JFF in regard to disciplinary action taken against Warren Barrett and the unsanctioned use and damage to the UDC playing field, Evans declared his position untenable and announced that he will not be continuing in the post.

"With regret, the manner in which we have handled ourselves, it has left much to be desired, combined with long-established protocol and procedures, and with that, it has made the board a laughing stock," Evans stated in his letter of resignation. "As the president and one who believes in accountability, and repercussions for actions, I am therefore willing to accept full responsibility and make the honourable decision, that is, to step down."

Breaches

While he is fully aware of the breaches, which caused Evans to step aside, Watt said he would rather not take any public position on the various issues before he meets with the board. However, he noted that general secretary Bruce Gaynor, under whose signature the contentions email was sent to the JFF; will be somewhat restricted in carrying out his responsibilities.

"He (Gaynor) will not be allowed to send out any emails on behalf of the board without consulting with me," stated Watt. "Our immediate goal at this time is to resettle the board and meet our obligations to our sponsors."