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JPL standard makes it most attractive for regional talent
August 30, 2024
Jamaica's top-flight league is an ever-revolving one that has become the go-to league within the region, this according to Owen Hill, chief executive officer of Professional Football Jamaica Limited (PFJL).
"We're definitely attracting a lot of overseas players because of the talent that exists within the local space. There's talent within the coaching ranks. The clubs' ecosystem is the best in the Caribbean region, so you find that most persons, when they look around, this is their number-one stop," Hill stated.
"Our broadcast gives visibility and the overall management of the clubs is certainly top tier. Therefore, people want to a part of it and we have become a destination market for players," he explained of the Jamaica Premier League.
Some of the overseas players plying their trade in the JPL are St Lucian Vino Barclett, who represents Cavalier; Brazilian William Ferreira Viera, who play for Montego Bay United; Vere Phoenix's Matthew Charles Woo Ling from Trinidad and Tobago; and Guyana's Ravi Coates, also signed to Vere Phoenix; and his countryman Neron Barrow who signed with Dunbeholden FC.
There have also been numerous coaching changes ahead of the September 15 start, and Hill believes this is because of the quality of coaches that are present in Jamaica.
He argued that, because of the abundance in quality, owners are now, more than ever, quicker to replace coaches ,if the standard of football being played isn't to their liking.
"Coaches moving within the league is a good sign. Coaching changes are important because of vision and execution. This also states that there is a good cadre of coaches within the space and you find that, if you don't like the style or (you're) not getting the results, then you can find a replacement relatively easy.
"It's speaks to a strategic pillar that we have where coaching education is important. Therefore, getting the licences and moving up the ranks is important to us," he analysed.
With the PFJL set to broadcast more games and across a wider cross section of the country, Hill believes the players and league will have a better platform this season.
"We're always looking to enhance the value. Fans can expect an exciting play-off package, different entertainment value, and consistent coverage across the island. We'll be shifting a lot of the television games to spread them across the country, and we just expect to continue promoting and giving opportunities to our youth talents," Hill suggested.
He shared that, from a management standpoint, they are eagerly awaiting the kickoff.
"We're excited about the start of the league, things are shaping up pretty well and we're in high gear preparing for a September 15 start. There are some exciting changes that will add significant value to the players, supporters and all the many groupings, because we're here to build out an ecosystem," he stated.
