Friendship Allstar and Timehri United will represent the East Bank in the national Under-17 Youth Ensemble playoffs later this year after securing the top two positions in their regional competition.
Friendship Allstar claimed the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) title with 18 points and 22 goals, while Timehri United finished runners-up with 12 points and 17 goals. Both clubs will now compete against leading teams from other Regional Associations for national honours.
The qualifiers emerged from a six-week tournament held from September 18 to October 24, involving more than 120 young players from seven clubs. Across 21 matches, the teams scored 78 goals.
Friendship also collected an individual honour through Brandon Bruce, whose eight goals earned him the Most Valuable Player award. Timehri’s Keron Accra was named Best Goalkeeper.
Herstelling Raiders finished third with 10 points and 10 goals. Swan took fourth place on nine points, ahead of Pro Elevate Sports Academy with seven and Kuru Kururu with three. Circuitville Jaguars finished seventh.
Beyond determining the East Bank champions, the competition formed part of the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) drive to provide more regular football for young players.
Through its Youth Ensemble Programme, the federation aims to create opportunities for every young footballer to play between 42 and 48 competitive matches each season.
The approach places regular matches alongside training, allowing players to practise their skills under competitive conditions, make better decisions and develop confidence. Sustained competition also gives scouts more opportunities to assess emerging players.
Developing coaches benefit as well, gaining practical experience while applying their knowledge in matches.
GFF President Wayne Forde said delivering the programme across the country presented considerable challenges, but the response from Regional Associations, clubs and volunteers had been encouraging.
He stressed that the programme’s long-term success depends on shared effort. While the GFF must provide direction, a framework and resources, regional football communities have a central role in creating lasting opportunities for young players.
Forde praised the Regional Competitions Coordinators for their planning and operational leadership, and recognised Ms. Garraway’s work in overseeing the East Bank tournament.
The federation also congratulated Friendship Allstar on their title and thanked the seven clubs, players, coaches, match officials and volunteers who contributed to the competition, with special recognition for Ms. Garraway’s commitment to its successful delivery.
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