PRESS STATEMENT on U-17 Men’s Campaign
TTFA statement on U-17 Men’s Team, Outlines Next Steps Following Concacaf U-17 Championship
The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) extends its commendation to the Trinidad and Tobago Men’s U-17 team and technical staff for their hard-fought campaign in the recently concluded Concacaf U-17 Championship in Costa Rica. While the team fell just short of qualification for the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup after a 2-0 defeat to the host nation in their final match, we recognize and applaud the dedication, effort, and determination displayed throughout the tournament.
Narrowly missing out on what would have been our first U-17 World Cup qualification since 2007 is undoubtedly disappointing, but this tournament has highlighted the potential within our young footballers. The TTFA remains committed to fostering their continued development.
Review & Future Development
“As part of our commitment to progress, the TTFA will conduct a comprehensive review of the team’s performance, analyzing key areas of preparation, competition, and player development. This will involve consultations with the technical staff, sports science professionals, and key stakeholders to ensure a structured and strategic approach to youth development. The findings will guide specific recommendations for improvement and implementation in future campaigns,” stated TTFA President Kieron Edwards.
With FIFA’s new annual U-17 World Cup format now in place, several members of this squad remain eligible to compete in next year’s qualifiers, while others will transition to the U-20 level. This continuity provides an excellent opportunity to strengthen our youth development pathway, ensuring that our best talents are given the necessary resources to succeed.
Enhancing Our Structure with Key Personnel & Technology
The TTFA recognizes that sustained success requires not only talented players but also a well-structured support system. Within our financial capacity, we are committed to enhancing our technical programs by incorporating key personnel, including specialized coaching staff, sports science experts, and performance analysts to optimize player development. Additionally, we will explore the use of technology such as video analysis tools, GPS tracking, and modern scouting systems to better assess player progress and enhance match preparation.
Securing Investment for Long-Term Growth
While we continue to operate within our current budgetary framework, the TTFA acknowledges that additional investment is crucial to achieving our long-term objectives. We are actively seeking strategic partnerships and sponsorships from corporate entities, government agencies, and international stakeholders who share our vision for football development in Trinidad and Tobago. Investment in youth programs will not only elevate our national teams but also contribute to the overall growth of football in the country.
Commitment to Women’s Football & Holistic Development
The TTFA remains equally committed to the development of women’s football, ensuring that our female youth teams receive the same level of focus, preparation, and competitive opportunities as their male counterparts. Our strategic plan will emphasize equal investment in coaching, scouting, and training facilities to ensure that our women’s teams can compete effectively at regional and international levels.
Looking Ahead
The TTFA thanks our players, coaches, staff, and supporters for their unwavering dedication and commitment. While the result in Costa Rica was not what we hoped for, the progress made is a foundation to build upon. We remain determined to create an environment where our young footballers can thrive, compete, and bring success to Trinidad and Tobago on the world stage.
Trinidad and Tobago Football Association
