THE UPS AND DOWNS OF
Association reports mixed fortunes; rues crippling lack of corporate support
disappearing, and those who are still around are aged with other interests due to their economic realities. Simply put, they cannot afford to subsidise the game anymore,” noted Gordon.
The businessman, who serves as chairman and co-owner of Jacden Enterprises, notes that growth of the game at school level also suffers from inadequate financial support, which is symptomatic of the general attitude towards the parish’s cricket.
“Considering the schools are equally financially challenged, the question of available infrastructure and costs to participate have become unsustainable. Cricket is simply not their priority. Most importantly, it is
ISSA [Inter-secondery Schools Sports Association] that manages sport in the schools and not the remit of the local boards,” stated Gordon.
Gordon, who was born and raised in St Thomas, said gone are the days when the game enjoyed robust support of local businesses.
“That level of partnership has disappeared since my time as a player. It is a constant struggle [now] to subsidise the game considering the economic realities. I have carried the cost of participation exclusively during my presidency. Sadly, I am not prepared to continue. St Thomas will have a new president in the year 2022 and hopefully, the new president can improve where I left,” he said.
“Subsidising the game is now unsustainable. Plus, it is extremely challenging to continue that tradition.
“The JCA provides a laughable part-funding of a maximum $200,000 per season to participate in the all-island Senior Cup competition. No funding for Junior or Minor Cup despite similar costs to participate in those competitions,” added Gordon.
The vice-president of the Racers Track Club movement embraces the position that, while marketing the sport is the job of the JCA, his association continues to find ways to promote the sport and engage local interests.