JFF to start construction for technical centre at UWI

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) is expected to start construction of a US$1.2 million football academy at the University of the West Indies Bowl soon.



The facility will be constructed over three phases on 6.5 acres of land, located just north of the mini-stadium being built for Usain Bolt.



Phase one, which will involve the creation of one football field, dressing room facilities and a technical area, is scheduled for completion in September this year, and will be constructed with the $400,000 FIFA Goal Project disbursement.



JFF President, Captain Horace Burrell said when the first phase is completed, the local federation will re-apply to FIFA for subsequent disbursements to complete the other two phases, which will include the establishment of a second playing field, and administrative and dormitory facilities.



Burrell made the announcement during the groundbreaking ceremony yesterday.



This represents the third time that ground was broken for the construction of such facility.



In 2003 the Burrell-led administration, announced plans for a similar project in Portmore, St Catherine. However, following a change of leadership at the JFF a year later, the project was moved to Malvern in St Elizabeth.