General Manager of Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise Portland Timbers, Gavin Wilkinson, accompanied by FIFA Agent and former HVFC and Reggae Boyz player, Damani Ralph of Global Premier Management, visited HVFC on Wednesday, April 15th for three days, departing early on Saturday morning.

Their arrival on the island was followed by greetings from HVFC officials inside the airport V.I.P. Lounge after being escorted from their flight, courtesy of our associate sponsor Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) Authorities. A rental car pick up was organized outside the terminal by another associate sponsor of ours, AVIS Car Rental, which allowed them to quickly travel to and settle in at Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston before returning to Harbour View to meet other members of the organization.

Our ongoing discussions have led to the visit by the first MLS official to explore association aimed at our Academy Programme development over the next few years. They attended daily training sessions of all our teams from Premier League, Under 20, Under 17, Under 15 and Under 13, meeting players, coaches, managers and board members. While here, they were treated to the famous Gloria’s Seafood Restaurant of Port Royal to enjoy a scrumptious meal, complemented by laughter and good company.

On Friday, during their final session with the senior team, our two visitors were presented with HVFC jerseys and a vote of thanks from our Coaches and team Captain Montrose Phinn.

Internal discussions will follow aimed at meeting a formal agreement.

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Senior team Head Coach Ludlow Bernard presenting Portland Timbers Gen. Mgr. Gavin Wilkinson with an HVFC jersey

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Coach Ricardo ‘Bibi’ Gardner presenting Global Premier Management agent/ former HVFC player Damani Ralph with an HVFC jersey

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