Romany: TT Pro League here to stay

THERE is absolutely no move to scrap the TT Pro League. This strong statement came from TT Pro League chairman Larry Romany yesterday, after reading a story in a daily newspaper, not Newsday.

Romany categorically denied suggestions there was any meeting to discuss plans to scrap the league and replace it with a National League by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation. And yesterday he assured sponsors, players, coaches and all employees along with the public, “the TT Pro League is here to stay.” According to Romany, the league is a private limited liability company which employs a staff of 1,000, and is a separate entity from the TTFF. He made it clear “the Pro League board, shareholders and teams have plans to grow and sustainably develop the Pro League. “The league which is affiliated to the TTFF sees itself as a partner and stakeholders in the development of football in Trinidad and Tobago. “We support the TTFF in their ongoing efforts to develop local football,” stated Romany.

The newspaper story indicated on the advice of FIFA vice-president and CONCACAF boss Jack Austin Warner, the Pro League would be wound up and a new National League would replace it. The story cited two meetings, the first at Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, and the other at Dr Joao Havelange Centre of Excellence, at which representatives from the five local associations — Southern Football Association, Central Football Association, Northern Football Association, Eastern Football Association and Eastern Counties met. But Romany reiterated: “There was no such meeting.  We have no intention of closing down and we are here for a long time to come.” He indicated that the TT Pro League already have a programme in place for next season backed by the Ministry of Sport.” Romany stated: “The Pro League share the ultimate dream of the TTFF and people of Trinidad and Tobago which is to qualify for the World Cup final. “I am convinced that a strong and vibrant Pro League will contribute to the fulfilment of this dream, the fight against crime and the positive development of the youth of the country. Our plans and objectives for the next five years reflect this.” Issuing a statement yesterday, the TTFF also refuted the story and stated: “We wish to state there is no intention nor were there any decision taken to affect the running of the TT Pro League.” The TTFF admitted holding discussions regarding their restructuring plans recommendations of which were given to member associations so they can discuss with their clubs. They further stated: “There is no truth in plans to dismantle the TT Pro League.”