BFA: New MLF a ‘positive’ step

The Bermuda Football Association says it has had no contact with organizers of the much-hyped new professional Caribbean Major League Football — but have broadly supported its concept.

Former Manchester United and Trinidad & Tobago striker Dwight Yorke and Bermuda legend Clyde Best are among those backing the formation of the league, which is expected to launch in September, 2015.

 The Caribbean Football Trust Limited (CFTL), which has now set up a commission to evaluate how to bring the idea to fruition, revealed the opening campaign will feature 20 teams playing in four hub countries competing for $3 million in prize money, rising to $5 million after the first three years.

A spokesman for the CFTL told the Sun that  “Bermuda is very much part of the new MLF concept” but added: “If it will be part of the first season itself or not, will have to be seen once the project gets closer to the launch date.”

The opportunity for Bermuda’s top teams, players, coaches and officials to have a fresh route into the professional game is an exciting prospect — albeit one in its infancy.

David Sabir, BFA general secretary, cautiously welcomed the plans but said time will tell whether the launch is sustainable and whether Bermuda teams and players are integrated into the league.

He told the Bermuda Sun: “The Bermuda FA has had no involvement with the MLF. All of what we know about the MLF is very basic including what we have learned from published media reports.

“The starting point will always be to work toward opportunities for our players to grow and develop further into the game.  How exactly that will take shape under the MLF is yet to be discussed with the Bermuda FA.”

New energy

He added: “The Bermuda FA realizes that there is lots of energy at the present moment driving the discussion about a professional league in the Caribbean region.  

“It’s not a new topic and certainly will be in the public domain for the foreseeable future. 

“Time will tell whether or not the MLF will be viable or sustainable but first it must get off the ground. 

“In due course, the region including Bermuda will know the strategic and business plans behind the MLF.”

He added: “If there is a vehicle in the region to provide the first step toward higher levels or leagues then that can only be viewed as a good situation for both players and coaches.

I think any player who has another opportunity to live their dreams should look at the situation in a positive way.”