Ricketts defends selection of WWC delegation members

Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president Michael Ricketts has sought to defend his decision to name parish association presidents as head and deputy head of his delegation for the Reggae Girlz trip to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France. Hanover FA president Sheridan Samuels is Head of Delegation with Westmoreland FA boss Everton Tomlinson as his assistant.

The Ricketts executive has faced mounting criticisms that loyalty is being rewarded, but the JFF head has insisted there was nothing wrong with what has been done. “Is there something wrong with that? Supporting the people who supported you? Samuels has been Head of delegation since the CAC Games and the coaches are very comfortable with him, so too the girls,” he said. 

Ricketts has also responded to queries by RJR Sports as to why Chairperson of the JFF Women's Committee, Elaine Walker-Brown was not an official member of the delegation. “The Head of Delegation is the prerogative of the president. Elaine was in Flora as the Head of Delegation for that component of this trip,” said Ricketts. Walker-Brown attended a FIFA Women's Congress ahead of the World Cup and has remained  in France for the World Cup.

The JFF sent 16 officials to the World Cup, led by Head of Delegation and his assistant along with the 23 players. The list of officials also includes three coaches, two managers, a team doctor and other technical staff as well as team media officer.