CFU and USL pact opens up career opportunities for Caribbean talent on and off the pitch

September 15 – The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and US professional league operator United Soccer League (USL) have unveiled a new long-term partnership aimed at creating more professional playing opportunities in the leagues of the 'USL.

The USL operates the second-tier USL Championship and third-tier USL League One in the United States. Both leagues tapped into the 31-nation CFUs for some of their best national team players. In the 11 seasons of the championship, three league MVPs have come from the Caribbean (Yordany Alvarez/Cuba, 2011; Kevin Molino/Trinidad and Tobago, 2012/2014; Dane Kelly/Jamaica, 2017).

The new cooperation will also create opportunities for Caribbean coaches, referees and front office staff in both leagues.

The USL said the first step of the cooperation will be to improve player scouting in Caribbean competitions with a planned combination for select players from CFU nations to compete in front of USL technical staff.

“Caribbean football has made enormous contributions to the USL over the years and this partnership creates an exciting opportunity to increase that legacy,” said USL President Jake Edwards. "We are excited to work with the Caribbean Football Union and its members to grow the sport across the region and impact our communities."

On the gaming side, the USL said it would help bolster the certification of coaches and athletic directors, as well as open the U.S. market to job opportunities. USL sporting director Mark Cartwright and the club's technical staff are also committed to sharing best practices. Off the field, the USL will host CFU executives at league meetings where they will participate in training sessions and interact with owners and management of the USL league office and clubs.

"Part of our role in the CFU is to lobby for our member associations in all areas and to seize opportunities for administrators, coaches, players and our referees. This agreement does just that, opening avenues for CFU, and it brings tangible benefit to USL, as our Caribbean people have the ability to add value wherever they are placed. This collaboration combines talent and opportunity. Everyone there wins,” said CFU President Randy Harris.

Contact the author of this story at moc.l1663537629labto1663537629ofdlr1663537629owedi1663537629sni@n1663537629osloh1663537629cin.l1663537629uap1663537629