MONROVIA – Former Liberia Football Association (LFA) Executive Committee member and CEO of Rover Ladies FC, Rochell Woodson, has sounded an alarm over what she describes as a severe lack of financial support for women’s lower league football clubs competing in the ongoing promotion playoffs.
By: Christopher C. Walker | 0777898224 / 0886723075 | [email protected]
Woodson’s concerns come as the Women’s Lower League Playoffs kicked off on Wednesday, featuring Third Division and Community League clubs vying for promotion.
Woodson alleged that the local football governing body has failed to provide any financial subsidies to the participating teams, forcing cash-strapped clubs to independently fund their entire campaign.
She pointed out that because the grassroots clubs are excluded from the LFA’s primary football development initiatives, they also missed out on vital funding from the Maritime Football Development program.
“The clubs are expected to participate in these playoffs, yet they have to bear the burden of transportation, accommodation, and feeding expenses on their own,” Woodson said.
Logistical Nightmares for Regional Teams
Woodson particularly highlighted the plight of teams from the Sub-Eastern Region Women’s League.
Despite facing immense financial constraints, these clubs are required to travel to Maryland County for their playoff fixtures without external logistics support.
According to the Rover Ladies CEO, several club administrators are currently struggling to mobilize the bare minimum resources required to cover basic travel, feeding, and lodging expenses.
She warned that neglecting the financial realities of grassroots clubs threatens to undermine the progress made in women’s football across Liberia.
“The continued growth and development of women’s football depend on providing support to grassroots clubs that are nurturing the next generation of players.” Rochell Woodson, CEO of Rover Ladies FC
Expressing her deep frustration over the persistent systemic neglect, Woodson concluded: “Lord help us.”
On the pitch, despite the off-field challenges, Woodson’s Rover Ladies FC battled to a 1-1 draw against Ambassador FC on Wednesday as both sides launched their playoff campaigns with a shared point.
