Members of the football fraternity representing various football clubs in the Virgin Islands (VI) joined officials of the BVI Football Association for a walkthrough of the Greenland Football Stadium, currently undergoing upgrades. Photo: BVIFA

Mr Avanelle Morton, President of the BVIFA led a walkthrough of the Greenland Football Statdium for football stakeholders and media personnel. Photo: BVIFA

Scenes from the walkthrough of the Greenland Football Stadium. Photo: BVIFA

The project, with no confirmed completion deadline, started in August 2025, and stakeholders were privy to a walkthrough that coincided with the end of phase one. 

Phase one includes resurfacing of the pitch, improved drainage, new fencing, and seating. 

FIFA-funded project

Currently, $136,000 has been spent on the project, funded by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and Mr Avanelle Morton, President of the BVIFA, said FIFA releases funds for the project based on how the work is ongoing. 

“There’s a certain time when funds have to come in to pay the people,” he explained.

At the end of the first phase, an inspection by representatives from Edelgrass will occur, and they will then submit their findings to FIFA. 

The field, Mr Morton explained, is chipwood, a newer method being used in the region. 

“I think we are the second one to have it in the Caribbean besides Costa Rica…the technician is supposed to be here sometime next week to go through the field, and FIFA is supposed to be here to test the field and pass the field maybe this month or next month,” he said. 

He added that the field cannot be used before FIFA approves it, and once approved, it is expected to last over twenty years. 

Two individuals from the East End area have been trained to maintain the field, and all necessary machinery and equipment for the job have been sourced. 

A long-term process

Mr Morton said the development of the Greenland Football Stadium is a significant step forward for football in the VI. 

“It’s a long-term process we’re in, not just for today and tomorrow, it’s for ten years, fifteen years, whoever comes after has something suitable and sustainable to play,” he told those present. 

The BVIFA said it remains optimistic and committed to delivering a facility that meets international standards.