Dear Editor,
The President, executives and members of the Guyana Football Federation and the entire Guyanese football fraternity would like to express their heartfelt condolences on the untimely passing of Mr Troy Richards, who died tragically.
Mr Richards during his playing career showed the passion and commitment which is needed for a footballer of his calibre. Since commencing his career as a youth player in the Hurricane Football Club and eventually the Top XX Football Club he displayed good football knowledge and had leadership qualities.
Because of these qualities he was selected to represent Guyana on a number of occasions, and in the twilight of his career he broke ranks with the Top XX FC and formed the Silver Shattas FC of which he was the president, Coach and player. This club immediately created an impact on the football fraternity in Linden and up to his death was one of the better clubs in Linden. His passing will ultimately create a void in the club and it is our desire and hope that someone else take up that mantle so that Mr Troy Richards’s reign will live on.
As a person Troy was very polite and respectful of authority, and could be termed as a visible role model. During his playing career he acquired many accolades from all who knew him; he was a very passionate player and had few confrontations with the referees and administrators of football, which is to be commended in someone as passionate as Troy who always wanted his team to win.
Indeed football has lost a great son, Troy has been an inspiration and his work and deeds will live on.
To his bereaved family, relatives and friends, be strong; accept Troy’s passing as the work of God, because he has gone to the great beyond to perform higher duties.
May his soul rest in peace.
Yours faithfully,
Lawrence Griffith
Competition Coordinator
Guyana Football Federation