PASSPORT problems, visa, ticket and funding issues have temporarily stalled the departure of the Trinidad and Tobago national women’s football team to Houston, Texas, for a one-month training camp.
The Soca Princesses were due to leave this week. However, yesterday, Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) general secretary Sheldon Phillips confirmed that the team is still here.
“They were supposed to go out this week. It’s nothing nefarious,” Phillips declared. “It (was) just getting the travel plans organised and the funding settled.”
“I should find out by today or tomorrow what is the departure date for them,” Phillips added. “I think one or two players have to get their passport and their visa, but that is not the crux of the matter. I think its just about getting the tickets and so.”
The Soca Princesses will use the camps as preparations for the inaugural Women’s Caribbean Cup which they host from August 19-29 and which also serves as the opening round of qualifying for the Canada 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
While in Houston, newly-installed national coach, American coach Randy Waldrum, and first assistant Marlon Charles will be in charge. And while in Houston, Trinidad and Tobago will play two internationals against the Mexican women’s national team.
“Those matches will not be affected,” indicated Phillips. “We know exactly when they will be played but some dates have been blacked out.”