The British Virgin Islands Football Association (BVIFA) has unveiled the results of its Executive Council elections, held during the Annual General Meeting on June 26, 2024. Members cast their votes to elect a new leadership team that will serve for the 2024-2028 term.

The newly elected Executive Council members are set to bring fresh energy and vision to the BVIFA, aiming to elevate football across all levels in the territory.

Avanell Morton has been elected as President. With a long-standing history of involvement in BVI football, Morton brings a wealth of experience and passion to his new role. He is committed to driving the association forward and enhancing the development of football at all levels in the territory.

Joining Morton is Andy Davis, elected as the 1st Vice President. Davis has been a dedicated advocate for the sport, significantly contributing to its growth in the BVI through various initiatives and programs. His ongoing dedication to football is expected to foster positive changes within the association.

Lorrelle Abrams, previously serving as Secretary, has been elected as the 2nd Vice President. Abrams’ dedication and leadership in her previous roles have been instrumental in the growth of the BVIFA, and she looks forward to continuing her efforts in this new capacity.

Rounding out the leadership team are Treasurer Kenrick Grant and Directors Priya Mohamed, Craig Grant, and Wendell Nichols. Each officer brings unique skills and a shared vision for the future of football in the British Virgin Islands. Together, they aim to promote inclusivity, enhance training programs, and increase participation at the grassroots level.

Following the election results, President Avanell Morton expressed his gratitude and excitement. “I am honored to be elected as the President of the BVIFA. Our new executive team is committed to building on the strong foundation laid by our predecessors and taking BVI football to new heights. We have ambitious plans to develop our infrastructure, support our athletes, and engage our community more than ever before.”

The newly elected Council wasted no time in outlining their initial orders of business. Their first priority is to meet with FIFA and Concacaf representatives, who have pledged ongoing support for the BVIFA. This meeting is expected to set the tone for future collaborations and initiatives.

Additionally, the Council will attend a church service on Sunday, June 30, 2024, to mark the beginning of their term with a moment of reflection and community engagement. This event signifies the Council’s commitment to uniting the community around the shared passion for football.

In the coming weeks, the Council will establish a six-month plan to address immediate goals and set objectives for their first 100 days in office. These steps are crucial in laying the groundwork for a successful term. Furthermore, a four-year strategic plan will be developed to guide the association’s long-term vision and initiatives.

The BVIFA extends heartfelt thanks to the outgoing committee members for their dedication and contributions. Their efforts have set the stage for continued success and growth within the association, paving the way for the new leadership to build upon their achievements.

The address centered on the significance of self-confidence and perseverance. Premier Wheatley stressed the value of believing in one’s abilities and striving for success. “The key lesson to remember is that you are capable of achieving great things if you apply yourself. Your future is bright. Many people are here, willing and ready to support you in becoming the best you can be – from the Premier and the Government to your parents and teachers,” he said, emphasizing the strong support system available to the graduates.

The Crown Lands Management Bill has successfully passed its second and third readings in the House of Assembly, marking a significant step forward in land management policy.

This legislative progress follows a thorough consultation process that engaged residents from Anegada to Jost Van Dyke. The consultation included seven public meetings spearheaded by Premier and Minister of Finance, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, alongside officials from his ministry. Input was gathered from two focus groups, and numerous written submissions were received from the public.

On June 17, the House of Assembly convened to debate the Bill, which emphasises the rights of Virgin Islanders regarding land access and ensures transparency and community interest in the management processes. The Bill then proceeded to the committee stage for further scrutiny.

Honourable Dr. Wheatley remarked, “The Wickham’s Cay lands are managed through the Wickham’s Cay Development Authority, under its own legislation. This will remain unchanged. For areas like Anegada, Salt Island, and North Sound, Virgin Gorda, standing committees will be established. We are confident that many of the concerns raised have been addressed during the committee stage.”

Premier Wheatley also advised those directly affected by the Bill to await official communications from the Government for further details.

The newly formed Standing Committees will collaborate with the Ministry via the Crown Lands Management Board to create clear criteria for ancestral land claims and specify the required documentation for such claims.

Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, stated that the Ministry is prepared and eager to work with the Crown Lands Management Board on this critical issue of land ownership, as recognised in The Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007.

After the Governor’s assent to the Bill, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change will hold additional public meetings to educate the community about the Act’s provisions.

The Crown Lands Management Bill outlines the administration, management, development, and transparent disposal of all Crown Lands within the Territory, aiming to ensure fair and efficient land use.