The Grenada Football Association (GFA) officially kicked off the 2025–2026 football season on Tuesday, 20 May, with a ceremony held at the GFA Conference Room that marked a major investment in local football.
In a bold show of support for grassroots development, the GFA disbursed over EC$774,000 in funds and equipment to its 36 affiliated clubs across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.
Each club will receive a total of $20,000 this season; $10,000 distributed immediately at the launch and the remaining $10,000 scheduled for release during the season to assist with operations, equipment, medical needs, transportation and refreshments.
Speaking at the ceremony, GFA President Marlon Glean delivered a powerful charge to club presidents and administrators, urging them to reform, restructure, and reorganise their clubs to ensure the long-term growth of football and the holistic development of communities.
“In the local climate, it is very difficult for clubs to sustain themselves. One of the biggest challenges is financial support,” Glean said. “So, the GFA has committed over $700,000 in cash to our clubs. But this is more than just money, it’s an investment in community, in our youth, and in the future of our country.”
President Glean emphasised the need for clubs to build proper structures that attract both government and private sector support. He challenged club leaders to view their institutions not just as teams, but as vital community pillars contributing to the development of better citizens. “Every club represents a part of Grenada. And if every club is developing its community, together we build a better nation. We are not just supporting football, we are supporting youth empowerment, education, and social upliftment.”
The 2025–2026 Club Support Programme doubles last year’s funding commitment, reflecting the GFA’s ongoing efforts to professionalise local football and elevate standards across the board. Beyond the financial contribution, the GFA will soon assign dedicated personnel to assist clubs in strengthening administrative systems and accountability processes, with compliance to FIFA’s club support guidelines.
The president also encouraged clubs to explore sponsorship opportunities, take care of their players, including medical care, equipment, and refreshments, and prioritise the growth of female football, which remains a strategic focus for the GFA.
He noted that 2 players have already secured scholarship offers to US colleges this season, underscoring the role of football as a pathway to education and advancement.
Addressing on-field dynamics, Glean also appealed to clubs and coaches to foster respect for referees and help cultivate a new generation of match officials. “We must be more tolerant. Mistakes will be made. But if football is to rise in Grenada, we must rise together, players, clubs, referees, administrators, and fans,” he said.
The season will officially begin next week, following a successful pre-season cup competition designed to prepare clubs for what promises to be a highly competitive season.
President Marlon Glean and the GFA continue to show an unwavering commitment to pushing Grenada’s football forward, not only through strategic investment but also through sustained vision and leadership. With new development initiatives on the horizon and increased international interest in Grenada’s national teams, the future of local football looks promising.
GFA
