Dear Editor: TTFA’s National U-17 trials lacked structure, fairness and care for young athletes

“[…] The selection format involved a single 20-minute 11v11 match, with all coaches observing from the sidelines. Players were not given numbered bibs, leaving coaches to rely solely on memory to identify and assess individuals.

“[…] Due to a late start, the event was called off around midday with two games left unplayed—leaving approximately 44 boys unseen. Furthermore, players scheduled to play later in the session were at a disadvantage, having eaten hours earlier and received limited hydration.

“This lack of structure undermined the integrity of the trials…”

The following Letter to the Editor, which expressed concern about the TTFA’s management of trials for National Under-17 footballers in East Trinidad, was submitted to Wired868 by A Concerned Parent:

I wish to express my deep concern regarding the recent player trial event hosted by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA).

Unfortunately, the event appeared poorly organized and did not provide an equal or fair opportunity for all participants.

1. Late Start and Unsuitable Conditions

The session began at 10.00am, during the peak of the morning heat. Such scheduling made playing conditions extremely uncomfortable and potentially unsafe for the young athletes involved.

Greater attention should be paid to player welfare, particularly given our country’s hot climate.

2. Inadequate Provision of Water

Each player reportedly received only one bottle of water for the entire duration of the trial. Considering the physical demands of the activity and the heat, this level of hydration was clearly insufficient.

3. Questionable Selection Process

The selection format involved a single 20-minute 11v11 match, with all coaches observing from the sidelines. Players were not given numbered bibs, leaving coaches to rely solely on memory to identify and assess individuals.

This approach raises serious questions about fairness, accuracy, and transparency in the evaluation process.

4. Incomplete Assessment and Unfair Disadvantage

Due to a late start, the event was called off around midday with two games left unplayed—leaving approximately 44 boys unseen. Furthermore, players scheduled to play later in the session were at a disadvantage, having eaten hours earlier and received limited hydration.

This lack of structure undermined the integrity of the trials.

5. Poor Rescheduling Considerations

The remaining games were rescheduled for Wednesday 12th at 4.00pm at the Larry Gomes Stadium. However, this timing failed to take into account the ongoing SSFL season and other commitments, such as school lessons and extracurricular activities.

Many parents and players found this inconsiderate and impractical.

In summary, the event reflected weak organisation and inadequate planning. The young footballers who attended gave their best effort, but they were not provided with the fair and professional platform they deserved.

The TTFA has a responsibility to ensure that national trials are conducted with proper structure, fairness, and respect for player welfare. I urge the Association to review and improve the organization of future events, so that all players are given a genuine and equal chance to be evaluated on merit.

Please do better, TTFA. Our young athletes deserve it.

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