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Barbados Challengers FC has officially secured the Mighty Three to participate in the Islands Cup Open (ISCO) Tournament as it prepares for a summer 2021 kickoff.
Barbados Challengers Franchise co-owner, Italian Businessman Danielle De Rossi, has approved ISCO’s commitment with Sol Campbell to be the Head Coach, and Andy Cole the Assistant Coach of the franchise. Also approved as an added bonus, is the first black cricketer in the history of England’s test cricket Roland Butcher, to be the team’s General Manager.
Mr. De Rossi commented, “As co-owner for the franchise, I am proud today to announce this great news for our Franchise. Mr. Campbell, Mr. Cole, and Mr. Butcher — The Mighty 3 as we call them, is a fantastic investment for our Barbados Challengers Franchise. We are looking forward to securing the first ISCO Championship.”
Mr. Sol Campbell commented, “I am elated to be chosen over my peers. There are so many of us seeking an opportunity such as this. This is a new challenge for me as well as for the younger talent in the Caribbean. To play alongside so many great renowned International players will help in their development. I am looking forward to my first day with Andy Cole by my side as assistant Coach and Roland Butcher as our General Manager. The inclusion of Mr. Cole and Mr. Butcher is even more powerful for the Franchise.”
Mr. Andy Cole commented, “this is fantastic news to get to work with Sol Campbell in an effort to develop the skills of young players from the Caribbean. There is so much natural talent in the region. We need to see more Caribbean talent in the top European leagues. This ISCO effort will help in putting these players on showcase. I am convinced that this tournament format will help fast track national teams’ participation in the various CFU, CONCACAF & FIFA tournaments more successfully.”
Roland Butcher commented, “it’s a pleasure and great honour and privilege to be named General Manager of the Barbados Challengers Franchise Team, The opportunity to work closely with Head Coach Sol Campbell and assistant Coach Andy Cole and all the world class players taking part, is something that I am excited about. This will further help to enhance Local and regional football and I look forward for our first game.”
All of the Challengers scheduled games will be hosted outside of Barbados for the 2021 season as part of the ISCO caravan schedule in selected countries, playing in both mid-week and weekend games. The Barbados franchise will infuse players from across the globe.
ISCO CEO/Commissioner Paul Mohamed called the commitment a win for the Barbados Challengers Franchise and all fans of the beautiful game, who said, “We are on the cusp of something historic and exciting, not only for the fans but also emerging footballers within the Caribbean region. The tournament gives them the perfect platform to showcase their talents and work with former players and legends of the game on a daily basis.”
Game days will be an experience that has never before been showcased in a single tournament, featuring a rich spectacular vibe – a melding of culture, food, football and live Music genres such as: Samba, Reggae, Soca, Salsa, Afro-beat, Reggaeton, Hip-Hop, EDM and Bollywood will all contribute to the extravaganza experience. ISCO is slated to be the Biggest Football Fete Fest ever that will bring the party right alongside the game!
With a specific mandate to address underprivileged youths across various communities – ISCO will answer the call, as the Caribbean Football Trust Limited (CFTL), a Barbados Corporation since 2007; has established that 45% of all its profits will be assigned to its own charity branded as ‘Kick Poverty Out’, as well as our Social and Welfare Department campaign to (“Kick Crime out & Kids’ Lives Matters”). These initiatives are in association with the local protective services in each host country.
In the current COVID-19 pandemic environment, we all should be alert, cautious and maintain a level of preparedness, mindful that the forecast and potential for things to worsen exists. It is for this reason that CFTL is committed to promoting the necessary practices that assist in eradicating this global pandemic. Thus, our advice and caution to all Players, Coaches, football fans, media personnel and others across the globe – wash your hands, wear your mask and maintain social distancing, when in a public setting.
