Former professional footballer James Baird is the new Head of Women’s Football in the British Virgin Islands.
The BVI Football Association (BVIFA) made the announcement stating that Baird who is also an experienced coach at national levels around the Caribbean and Europe, will also serve as Head of Coaches which include the Women’s National Team.
The football association said Baird will be hitting the ground running as he looks to re-establish all the programs, get females of all ages back playing football and reignite the competitive edge among women’s football.
“I want to create a buzz and get us back functional with increased participation… we are all starting with a clean slate and its all about looking after the players and giving them opportunities to play ” Baird stated.
He added, “I have spent a few weeks on the Island and have already been impressed with what I have seen. Longer term goals to be competitive are achievable with a good mix of new younger players and experienced players who have a lot to give still.”
Noting that there is a lot of money put into women’s programs from funding sources such as Concacaf and FIFA, Baird said he is confident that with his contacts he can make an immediate impact and revitalize the game of football in the BVI.
“It’s an exciting project…I’m ready to get stuck in, get my hands dirty and work with some of the great coaches on island,” he stated.
It all starts Wednesday, December 20 with a chance for all the girls to come out and showcase their talents at a football trial event between 6.30 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. on the football field at East End /Long Look.
Baird said while seniors, Under 15’s and Under 12’s may be the short-term focus, no stone will be unturned as he goes about his remit.
“Yes, that may be the starting point, those age groups, but we will also look at futsal, beach soccer and the other age groups” he confirmed.
Baird, originally from Scotland, has worked as a coach across three continents, and has been a coach with both the West Indies Football Association and Trinidad and Tobago Football Association.
He played as a goalkeeper for several Scottish clubs, including Alloa Athletic and Faroese clubs and while in the Caribbean for the Trinidad and Tobago Professional Football League club, Tobago United.