The BVI Football Association (BVIFA) Technical Centre opened today, Friday, September 25, 2026. Photo: YouTube

VIFA President, Avanell Morton, aka ‘Clarkie’, said the aim of the council is to build a facility capable of accommodating its leagues and international games. Photo: YouTube

Acting Premier Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) said the BVIFA continues to contribute to football in the Virgin Islands (VI) and to lifting the national standing and that of the players in both regional and world football. Photo: YouTube

Work on the centre began in August 2025 and continued into 2026. The works included replacement of the pitch, upgrades to the public restroom, refurbishment of existing locker rooms, drainage works and construction of a retaining wall. 

More works will be undertaken in the second phase as the year progresses. 

BVIFA President, Avanell Morton, aka ‘Clarkie’, said the aim of the council is to build a facility capable of accommodating its leagues and international games. 

He thanked everyone who contributed to the success of the project thus far, adding, “There’s more in store.”

An investment in a stronger BVI- Hon Vincent O. Wheatley

Acting Premier Dr the Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) commended the BVIFA for doing what he termed a magnificent job. “The BVI Football Association has successfully managed the installation of this new artificial pitch made possible through the generosity of FIFA, as well as a host of supporting works at this facility.”

He said these upgrades, in addition to the hosting of training sessions for different age groups, contribute to football in the Virgin Islands (VI) and to lifting the national standing and that of the players in both regional and world football. 

Hon Wheatley, who is also Minister for Health and Social Development, said, “An investment in sports and supporting facilities is an investment in health also. It is an investment in youth development; it is an investment in families, stronger communities, and a stronger Virgin Islands.”

Football, he said, is a sport that contributes to social development.

“Here in the Virgin Islands, sports play a critical role in community life; football, basketball, sailing and many other sporting disciplines inspire our young people to strive for excellence and to believe in their potential.”

Meanwhile, Mr Infantino thanked the BVIFA and all involved for bringing the vision into reality and declared he was returning for the entire completion of the project in September 2027.

Gift exchange

Among the gifts presented by Mr Infantino was an official match ball used in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final.

“You deserve it…it is a very special ball,” Infantino said to Mr Morton.

The BVIFA presented Mr Morton with a national team jersey with Mr Infantino's name on it, and a beautiful framed photo of a beach in the Virgin Islands.

Mr Infantino vowed to visit the beach in the photo when he returns in September 2027.