SKNFA Director of Sports Unveils Strategic Leadership Plan

Jeffrey Hazel, the Director of Sports in St. Kitts and Nevis, has formally announced his candidacy for the presidency of the St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA), setting the stage for a potentially transformative period for the nation’s football. His announcement, delivered in a detailed letter to the SKNFA member clubs ahead of the January 12, 2025 Elective Congress, outlines a comprehensive vision for the future of the sport, emphasizing unity, resilience, and a commitment to progress under the banner of “Team Jeffrey Hazel.” Hazel’s campaign promises a significant shift in the SKNFA’s approach, focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure modernization, international competitiveness, equity for women’s football, and good governance. This comprehensive strategy aims to address the current challenges facing the federation and propel St. Kitts and Nevis football to new heights.

Central to Hazel’s platform is a commitment to sustainable football development. He proposes a significant restructuring of funding, advocating for the redirection of council member stipends towards youth and women’s football programs. This strategic reallocation of resources signifies a prioritization of grassroots development, nurturing young talent and fostering the growth of women’s football. Crucially, Hazel emphasizes the importance of collaborative decision-making, promising to involve member clubs and players in the allocation and utilization of these funds, ensuring a transparent and participatory approach to development. This bottom-up approach aims to empower local communities and build a strong foundation for the future of St. Kitts and Nevis football.

Recognizing the importance of modern facilities for the advancement of the sport, Hazel’s vision includes a comprehensive plan for infrastructure modernization. He proposes partnering with the government to upgrade key assets, including the Football House and the Technical Center, focusing on creating sustainable and state-of-the-art facilities that can support the growth and development of football at all levels. This commitment to infrastructure improvement signals a long-term investment in the future of the sport, providing athletes with the resources and environment they need to thrive. The modernization efforts will not only enhance training and competition but also contribute to the overall professionalization and elevation of St. Kitts and Nevis football.

Hazel’s ambition extends beyond domestic development, encompassing a strong desire for international success. He envisions building competitive national teams across all age groups, with the goal of regularly qualifying for international tournaments. This focus on international competitiveness demonstrates a commitment to raising the profile of St. Kitts and Nevis football on the global stage, fostering national pride and providing players with valuable opportunities to compete against top talent. Achieving this objective requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing player development, coaching education, and strategic planning, all of which are integral to Hazel’s vision.

A key element of Hazel’s platform is a dedication to achieving equity for women’s football. He acknowledges the historical inequalities faced by women players and pledges to address these disparities by ensuring equal access to resources and opportunities. This commitment to gender equality represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable footballing landscape in St. Kitts and Nevis. By providing women with the same support and opportunities as their male counterparts, Hazel aims to unlock the full potential of women’s football and contribute to the overall growth and development of the sport.

Underpinning Hazel’s vision is a strong emphasis on good governance. He advocates for transparency, collaboration, and a democratic process within the SKNFA, aiming to restore trust and accountability in football administration. This commitment to good governance is crucial for creating a stable and sustainable environment for the sport to flourish. By promoting transparency and accountability, Hazel aims to build confidence within the footballing community and ensure that decisions are made in the best interests of the sport. This focus on ethical leadership and responsible management is essential for fostering a positive and progressive culture within the SKNFA.

In closing his letter to the SKNFA member clubs, Jeffrey Hazel invoked the federation’s motto, “Country above Self,” emphasizing its significance as a guiding principle for his campaign and future leadership. He envisions a united and prosperous future for St. Kitts and Nevis football, one that serves as a beacon of hope for communities across the nation. His message of resilience, equity, and progress resonated with stakeholders, who are eager for a renewed and inclusive approach to football governance and development. As the SKNFA election draws nearer, Hazel’s comprehensive vision and commitment to transformative leadership offer a compelling roadmap for the future of St. Kitts and Nevis football, promising a new era of growth, development, and international competitiveness. His emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and sustainable development sets the stage for a potentially pivotal moment in the history of the nation’s football, offering a pathway towards a more inclusive, equitable, and successful future for the sport.