At the corner of Queen and Hope Streets in Tiger Bay, Georgetown, a spanking new futsal court has emerged as a symbol of a unique partnership aimed at reclaiming the image of one of the city’s most storied neighbourhoods.
The Futsal court, commissioned on Friday by President Dr Irfaan Ali, sees a private car park transition into a floodlit sporting arena in the evenings.
“We want to work side by side with each community,” President Ali told residents. “This is just the beginning. We are looking at a large-scale agenda to help these areas become more self-sufficient.”
The land is owned by prominent businessman Harry Mattai, owner of the nearby Mattai’s Supermarket.
Under a new agreement, the space serves as a commercial car park during daylight hours before being handed over to the youths of Tiger Bay in the evenings.
“This is what we call ‘One Guyana’,” said Mattai, noting, “it is a commitment to serving the community we are based in.”
Priya Manickchand, the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, was also keen for the residents to recognise the investment the government is making in young people and communities all across Guyana.
Steven Jacobs, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, envisions the court as an economic engine for the residents.
“By hosting futsal tournaments here, it will pave the way for economic gain for local vendors and residents,” Jacobs explained. “It’s about empowerment through sport.”
Several members of the Guyana national squad have pledged to visit the Tiger Bay facility to mentor local youngsters, bridging the gap between grassroots street football and the professional game.
Minister Jacobs used the commissioning to issue a challenge to the wider Guyanese business community, urging other firms to look at their own premises as potential sites for community development.
While futsal is expected to be the main attraction on the court, Basketball can also be hosted at the facility.
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