Former W Connection manager McLean dies

The 63-year-old McLean was one of the longest-serving managers in the history of the TT Pro League, having been involved with Connection from 2001-2015.

Former Connection owner/president and current president of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TT FA) David John-Williams, in a telephone interview on Tuesday, commented, “Raymond’s name will always be etched in the Pro League. He was the Administrator for the Year, I think, on six consecutive occasions. And that speaks volumes.

“We’re saddened by his passing,” John-Williams added. “I can speak (as) the immediate past president of W Connection and also on behalf of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association. The capacity in which I’m at right now, it’s a sad moment. Condolences to his family from the football fraternity. He’s in a better place now.” John-Williams added that Mc- Lean was recently honoured by Connection for his services to the team.

The funeral service for McLean will take place on Saturday, at the Allen’s Funeral Home on Broadway Street, Arima from 11 am.

The TT FA, on their Facebook page, extended, “deepest condolences to the family and friends of Raymond McLean. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family and those closest to him including members of the Connection team (in) Mexico for (today’s) CONCACAF Champions League match with Pumas FC.” Connection also posted a tribute to McLean on their Facebook page.

“Finding the right words to pay tribute to a man that has always been ‘Connection’ to his core is truly one of the most difficult things we have had to do today.

“On behalf of our Board of Directors, Management, Staff, and our players, we wish to offer our sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Raymond Mc Lean on his passing.

“‘Manage’... the words escape us.

You were one of a kind and you will be missed greatly. We are honoured to have known you and are fortunate to have shared many a laugh with you.” Through a media release yesterday, the Pro League, also extended condolences.