SKNFA to Hold Football Elections

The St. Kitts and Nevis Football Association (SKNFA) stands poised at a critical juncture as it prepares for its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and elections. The upcoming contest presents a compelling narrative of continuity versus change, featuring incumbent President Atiba Harris vying for re-election against challenger Jeffrey “Shango” Hazel, the current Director of Sports. Harris’s four-year tenure has been marked by significant strides in the development and recognition of football within the federation, earning him international acclaim and sparking conversations about his potential future within the broader Concacaf leadership. Hazel, a former SKNFA Technical Director, enters the race armed with a wealth of experience and a distinct vision for the future of the sport, promising a fresh perspective and a renewed focus on grassroots development. The election, scheduled for a yet-to-be-specified date, will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of football in St. Kitts and Nevis for years to come.

Atiba Harris’s presidency has ushered in a period of growth and international prominence for the SKNFA. His leadership has been instrumental in raising the profile of St. Kitts and Nevis football on the global stage, attracting increased attention and investment. Beyond international recognition, Harris has also overseen substantial progress in local football development, implementing programs and initiatives aimed at nurturing young talent and strengthening the foundations of the sport within the federation. This record of achievement positions Harris as a formidable candidate for re-election, offering a compelling argument for continuity and the further advancement of his established agenda.

However, Harris faces a significant challenge in Jeffrey Hazel, a seasoned sports administrator with a deep understanding of the SKNFA and its inner workings. Having previously served as the SKNFA’s Technical Director, Hazel possesses a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the federation. His campaign emphasizes a fresh approach to football development, focusing on strengthening grassroots programs, improving coaching education, and creating more opportunities for young players to progress through the ranks. Hazel’s experience and vision resonate with those seeking a new direction for St. Kitts and Nevis football, offering a compelling alternative to the status quo.

The SKNFA released the official candidate lists on December 22, 2024, providing further insight into the potential composition of the next executive council. Harris’s team includes Shawn White as First Vice President, Cuthbert Caines as Second Vice President, and ordinary members Javeim Blanchette, Sheila Patricia Claxton, Phill Cooper, and Alleyne Morris. Hazel’s slate features Don Grant as First Vice President, Aisha Duggins as Second Vice President, and ordinary members Troy Hendrickson, Almon Crooke, Ronald Williams, and Juliana Sargeant. The diverse composition of both teams underscores the importance of this election and the potential for a significant shift in the leadership and direction of the SKNFA.

The contrasting visions and experiences of the two presidential candidates have ignited a lively debate within the St. Kitts and Nevis football community. Stakeholders are closely scrutinizing the platforms and leadership styles of both Harris and Hazel, weighing the benefits of continuity against the potential for transformative change. Harris’s supporters point to his tangible achievements and international recognition as evidence of his effective leadership. Hazel’s proponents, on the other hand, advocate for a fresh perspective and a renewed focus on grassroots development, arguing that a change in leadership is necessary to unlock the full potential of St. Kitts and Nevis football.

The AGM and elections represent a pivotal moment for the SKNFA and the future of football in St. Kitts and Nevis. The outcome of the presidential race will have far-reaching implications for the development of the sport at all levels, from grassroots programs to the national team. The SKNFA is encouraging all its members to actively participate in this crucial decision-making process, recognizing the importance of collective engagement in shaping the future of football within the federation. Whether Harris retains his position or Hazel emerges victorious, the elections will undoubtedly mark a significant turning point in the history of St. Kitts and Nevis football. The ensuing years will reveal the full impact of this pivotal election on the nation’s footballing landscape.