Garlandale FC’s departure from the Cape District Football Association (CDFA) has cast serious doubt over the LFA’s credibility and its future.
Needless to say, they are now the second club within the space of a year to jump ship after Stephanian Ottery also left the CDFA for greener pastures after almost two decades at the CDFA.
No Bones with Jones has reliably been informed that the “chickens are coming home to roost” with more clubs considering cutting ties with the controversial CDFA.
“I think it is just a matter of time when we’ll see more clubs leaving the LFA,” a source told our website. “But let’s wait and see as things are low-key with the season that has just ended”.
When probed on what the reason for the exodus of clubs from the LFA could be, the source revealed: “What else do you think? Many of us are not satisfied with the way things are run and done. Some of these (executive) members think they are above the rules and regulations and think the union belongs to themselves and their clubs,” the source added.
The source also revealed that the murmurs about the recent election that could be declared null and void by Safa Cape Town because rules and protocols were not followed are quite worrisome.
The source further stated that he was quite surprised when the suspended president of CDFA, Wayne Jones, still participated in the LFA activities knowing “nothing good will come of it.”
“Look, I am not saying that Safa CT is the best run organisation in the country, but what he (Jones) has done is not just undermining the mother body, but also us as clubs. It gave us the impression that our well-being as affiliates didn’t matter as it was all about him.
“Whatever the (personal) battles are between him and Safa CT, it should not hurt the LFA, but it clearly does and it casts doubt and throws everything into disarray. Our club for instance wants to prosper and move forward, but the conditions are not conducive,” the source concluded.
Meanwhile, Donovan Neilsen, president of the Cape Town Tygerberg LFA (CTTLFA), has confirmed that they have endorsed Garlandale’s move as the new edition to their ever growing family.
“Yes, that is correct,” Neilsen told No Bones with Jones.
“Look, any club is free to join as long as they meet all the criteria set aside and our clubs are in favour. Our clubs are the ones who ultimately decide if another club is to join our LFA or not,” said Neilsen.
This follows the statement from Garlandale chairman Yusuf Naceroedien on Thursday (14 December) confirming their “entry into the prestigious Cape Town Tygerberg Local Football Association (LFA) for the upcoming 2024 football season.
This significant move marks a new chapter in Garlandale FC’s journey, as they join the ranks of the CapeTown Tygerberg LFA, known for its competitive spirit and commitment to fostering football excellence. The decision to align with the Cape Town Tygerberg LFA reflects Garlandale FC’s dedication to growth, development, and embracing the vibrant football community in the region.
Club representatives are enthusiastic about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in the Cape Town Tygerberg LFA, where they will compete against other talented clubs and contribute to the overall strength of the local football scene. The move is expected to enhance the club’s visibility, attract new talent, and strengthen community connections.
“We are excited to be part of the Cape Town Tygerberg LFA and look forward to the competitive matches and collaborative spirit that define this league. Joining this esteemed association aligns with our vision for excellence and progress in football,” said Nacerodien.
The Garlandale FC community expresses gratitude to its supporters, sponsors, and stakeholders who have been instrumental in the club’s growth. The forthcoming season promises an exhilarating display of skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship as Garlandale FC embarks on this new and exciting venture in the Cape Town Tygerberg LFA,” the statement read.
