Monday 11 May 2026, Balmain, Couva
The Sports Company of Trinidad and Tobago (SporTT) on Monday engaged National Governing Bodies (NGBs) in an extensive and candid stakeholder meeting focused on promotion and development of sporting disciplines, funding, governance, compliance requirements and concerns affecting the operations of the organisations as it relates to the future direction of sport administration in Trinidad and Tobago.
Held at the National Racquet Sport Centre in Tacarigua, the meeting brought together representatives from 15 sporting disciplines (Aquatics, Athletics, Basketball, Boxing, Cricket, Cycling, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Hockey, Netball, Rugby, Sailing, Tennis, Volleyball), members of SporTT’s Board of Directors and executive management in what became a frank discussion on the challenges currently facing the national sporting landscape.
Discussions focused on a range of matters affecting the national sporting landscape, including funding processes, governance requirements, compliance obligations, athlete development, programme delivery and opportunities for stronger collaboration between SporTT and the NGBs. Stakeholders shared perspectives on the operational challenges facing sporting organisations, while SporTT outlined the broader financial and administrative realities impacting the sector.
Many stakeholders highlighted the strain placed on volunteer-led organisations attempting to sustain athlete participation, host events and maintain international competitiveness amid prolonged uncertainty. Several NGBs also pointed to missed opportunities in sport tourism, facility utilisation and collaborative programme development.
Chairman Kester Lendor acknowledged the concerns raised during the engagement and emphasized the importance of continued dialogue with stakeholders, reflecting that:
“The feedback from stakeholders was frank and, at times, difficult to hear, but these conversations are necessary. We have inherited significant challenges, and we are committed to listening, evaluating the concerns raised and working toward a more transparent and collaborative relationship with the sporting community.”
SporTT’s Interim CEO Arnold Ram and Directors reiterated the organisation’s commitment to improving communication, strengthening stakeholder engagement and reviewing existing systems and processes. Board members emphasized that the meeting formed part of a broader effort to reset relationships with NGBs and develop more collaborative approaches moving forward.
The Board was encouraged by the proposals for the development of future athletes across all sport and the willingness to partner for future growth and success. These discussions also explored opportunities for greater partnership between SporTT and NGBs in areas such as community sport programmes, facility management, athlete development pathways and sports tourism initiatives.
Importantly, the meeting underscored the urgent need for stronger alignment, transparency and trust across the sport sector. The candid feedback from stakeholders reflected longstanding frustrations within the sporting community and reinforced the importance of stable leadership, consistent communication and clear strategic direction across the national sport ecosystem.
Key aspects of the discussion related to the fiduciary responsibility of SporTT and the NGBs to the wider public and the need to account and act responsibly as it relates to public assets and expenditure.
SporTT thanks all NGB representatives for their participation and contributions and indicated that further engagements, including individual meetings with NGBs and continued dialogue with the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, are expected in the coming weeks, whilst at the same time working to roll out initiatives and programs in partnership.
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