LABA presidential hopefuls present ideas

May 16, 2009 Sports

– Chapman, Hamid differ on development

Joe Chapman

Abdullah Hamid

By Edison Jefford
Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) Presidential hopefuls, Joe Chapman and Abdullah Hamid have presented their ideas for the development of basketball in Linden ahead of the association’s Annual General Meeting.

Chapman’s vision focuses more on administrative development of the sport while Hamid presented new infrastructural and community–based ideas. Both candidates have ensured that Linden clubs receive their manifestos in time.
The meeting and elections is set for tomorrow at the Mackenzie Sports Club pavilion and a new president will definitely emerge following Uborn Smith’s decision to demit office at the association’s last statutory meeting Tuesday night.

Chapman said that he intends to review the LABA constitution with the aim of alignment to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) constitution. He indicated that the goal is to ensure that basketball is conducted properly.
In addition, Chapman, the current LABA Secretary, proposed a “regulated procedure” for the ranking of clubs at the first division level that is in tandem to the FIBA rankings. He is of the opinion that this will restore trust among clubs.

Apart from endorsing the Ministry and Victory Valley Royals schools’ championship, he lobbied for the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation’s (GABF) adaptation of the FIBA Guidelines for National (Basketball) Federations.
“This resuscitation of the GABF must be done with key inputs from the two stakeholders, the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association and LABA,” Chapman disclosed in the comprehensive document to Linden clubs.

While not opposing Hamid’s slate, Chapman indicated that Hamid has a lot to offer in the Mining Town but not as president.
He suggested that if he is elected, he would suggest that Hamid be appointed LABA Technical Director.
However, under the goal: “to facilitate effective monitoring, supervision and guidance to the basketball fraternity within the Linden community”, Hamid is gunning for the top post and believes that he has proven his ability.

He outlined that he will “systematically enhance the performance of members [including referees] of the fraternity through workshops, seminars and developmental sessions”, in his “goals and objectives”.
Hamid wants to acquire the LABA court; facilitate the development of youths; promote tournaments at the Under–19, 21 and 23 first, second and third division levels and ensure the security of players and spectators if elected president.

In addition, the current LABA Organising Secretary promised the installation of efficient lights, proper fences and security guards at game venues.
He plans to link service within the community to basketball through rehabilitation projects.
Hamid said insurance and injury benefits will protect players under his presidency while a functional LABA Disciplinary Committee will be established to deal with those delinquent players around the sport in the Linden.

With the presentation of their ideas, Linden clubs were given a chance to choose the candidate that best appeals to that particular club’s vision.
The race for the top office is definitely bound to be close.

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