TT PRO League CEO (Chief Executive Officer) Dexter Skeene says fear not, the economic downturn will not destroy the Pro League.
Skeene reminded that business is a cycle and the League will overcome and thrive no matter what the challenges.
He said, “tough decisions will have to be made for the betterment of the business of the League and professional football.
“I am confident in the future of the Pro League and professional football in Trinidad and Tobago.
“Professional leagues all over the world have their challenges.
In any recession all sectors have challenges. It is those owners of businesses who are resilient and innovative and think strategically will survive and thrive.
The industry of professional football is no different.” Skeene, a Columbia university graduate, said, in a downturn there are challenges.
He continued: “I have had very productive discussions with the Minister, Ministry and the Sport Company.
It is a matter of knowing where we are at, given the prevailing market conditions, evaluating the position and then modify the plan to suit the existing environment to overcome the hurdles and take advantage of the existing opportunities.”
The Pro League CEO said interest in professional football and the business of football remains high, locally and internationally, as there are investors and club owners who have applied to enter the Pro League for the forthcoming 2016-17
He also said the League’s commercial portfolio of partners continues to grow as well as their individual investments.
“In difficult times people look for cheaper entertainment alternatives and football has all the right ingredients to fulfil,” continued Skeene.
“Fear not the League is here to stay. Too much has been invested in the TT Pro League over the past 12 years to give up now. The owners have invested over $200 million.
“We will survive. We remain focused and understand the importance of the League to football, the youth and communities of Trinidad and Tobago.
“I remain convinced, once the League is able to get the grounds in the communities, I can guarantee the Minister, Ministry and the national community that no government funding will have to be given to any pro league club after three years,” Skeene ended.
(www.ttproleague.com)