‘Women’s football deserves better’Raymond Anderson disappointed by issues at start of JWPL
Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Vice-President Raymond Anderson was left disappointed yet again with his organisation because of several glitches in the start of the Jamaican Women’s Premier League (JWPL).
The JWPL kicked off on Saturday but Rangers FC and Royal Lakes withdrew on Friday, citing various reasons, which put a spanner in the spokes of the women’s league.
Royal Lakes said, “At this time we do not believe that we can actively and efficiently compete in the competition,” while Rangers said they have withdrawn “due to unforeseen circumstances”.
This, according to Anderson, who is challenging incumbent Michael Ricketts for the presidency of the JFF, in a press statement, was a major cause of concern, noting that merely three days after the launch of the league there are notable setbacks, including the cancellation of its opening ceremony, the withdrawal of two participating teams, and widespread confusion regarding the match fixtures and venues.
“I firmly believe in the potential and significance of women’s football in Jamaica and pledge to ensure the establishment of a well-structured Tier 1 women’s league, complete with substantial sponsor support,” Anderson said.
According to him, this commitment is a cornerstone of the manifesto (launched December 2023), reflecting his dedication to elevating the standard and visibility of women’s football in Jamaica.
“The initial presentation of the JWPL lacks a coherent vision for the growth of women’s football. Notably absent were details on the league’s strategic plans, the absence of the announced sponsor, and a lack of clarity on the fixtures,” Anderson said. “Furthermore, there was no information on the support to be extended to the participating clubs or efforts to promote the games and foster interest in women’s football. The inconsistency in messages regarding the inclusion of a knockout competition has further contributed to the perception that the launch was merely a superficial attempt to garner positive public relations.”
Anderson says this approach mirrors the ongoing issues faced by the senior Reggae Girlz, underscoring a pattern of inadequate management and planning by the JFF.
“In light of these challenges, the RSA [Real Solid Action, Anderson’s campaign team] urges the General Secretary [Dennis Chung] to promptly address these critical issues. Immediate action is necessary to rectify these flaws which threaten to demoralise players and undermine the clubs’ stability,” he said. “The Jamaica Football Federation under my leadership is committed to revolutionising women’s football in Jamaica through a multifaceted approach. Our manifesto emphasises the importance of grass-roots development, aiming to significantly increase girls’ exposure to football from an early age, thereby laying a solid foundation for the future.
“The achievement of a women’s squad qualifying for the World Cup twice would presumably serve as a significant incentive for investing in the local women’s league. However, this expectation appears to have been unmet.”