A member of the St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Senior Men National Football Team, Vincy Heat, says the team are facing unacceptable conditions in Bonaire, where they will play two friendly international matches as they prepare for the CONCACAF series.
Two days after the SVG national team was defeated 3-1 by the host and just ahead of Sunday’s match against Barbados, a member of the team reached out to iWitness News, alleging shabby accommodation.
The player, speaking on condition of anonymity, told iWitness News that the team have “faced challenges” since they arrived in Bonaire.
“The SVGFF failed to make the players comfortable. They are sleeping uncomfortably on a twin-sized bed. There’s 2-3 players per room,” the player said.
Players are said to be “travelling on a school bus with no windows”.
The player has accused the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation of not wanting to spend to get proper transportation and accommodation for the players, but expects positive results.
“Everyone sees the negative results but don’t know what the players go through on a daily (basis),” the player said,
“We are tired and that’s why we speaking up because the people need to know how the SVGFF works,” the source said.
When contacted on Saturday evening for a response to the allegations, SVG Football Federation’s Marketing and Public Relations Officer, Candy Fraser, expressed surprise.
Fraser said she would contact the federation’s president or the general secretary and ask them to contact iWitness News. Some time later, Fraser sent a WhatsApp message saying she was unable to reach them.
“I was unable to reach anyone. I’ve sent messages to both the President and the General Secretary, and it’s likely the General Secretary is the appropriate person to address this, but I have not received a response as yet,” Fraser said.
“I must say it is quite concerning to hear about these alleged issues, as this is the first [time] I am being made aware of them. I have not received any prior information on this matter.”
Fraser promised to update iWitness News on any developments.
They are too Gad darm soft that is why they cannot win anything. They should be happy to be touring as ambassadors of their country. Suck it up guys.
Demand better facilities not by butching to the press but by stringing together a series of wins for once. Be thankful.
My name is Sa-yen Constance the only Vincy supporter living in Bonaire attended the Game. All the teams stayed at the same hotel. The bus is what they paid for thats what they got.
So next time contact me as Vincy ambassedor to welcome Vincentians to Bonaire.