Recently promoted to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League, Mainstay Goldstar Football Club is making strides in preparation for its first season in the country’s top-tier football competition. The Essequibo-based club received a timely boost yesterday when Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, extended crucial support to aid their transition into the elite level.
At a presentation ceremony held at the National Sports Commission (NSC) headquarters in Georgetown, Mainstay Goldstar FC player Jermain Ralph accepted a donation of footballs on behalf of the club. Ralph, a native of Essequibo who recently transferred from Santos FC, expressed gratitude for the assistance, noting that the move to the Elite League presents various challenges, and any support is invaluable. The initiative was facilitated by veteran journalist Allan La Rose, who sought assistance for the newly promoted club. Recognizing the significance of bolstering a team from Essequibo, Ninvalle responded promptly. He emphasized that Mainstay Goldstar’s inclusion in the Elite League is not just a victory for the club but a major step in expanding football opportunities in the region.
“The team’s presence in the Elite League will not only strengthen football in Essequibo but also provide young players in the region with an opportunity to aspire to play at the highest level in Guyana,” Ninvalle stated.
Ninvalle, who previously served as Vice President of Alpha United, acknowledged that Essequibo has historically been underrepresented in top-tier football. He views Mainstay Goldstar’s promotion as a breakthrough moment for the region, potentially inspiring greater development of the sport outside of the traditional strongholds. The club secured its spot in the Elite League following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Mahaica Determinators FC in the Qualification Play-Off Finals at the National Training Centre in Providence last month. The decisive goal came in just the 7th minute, courtesy of Rayeon John, securing Mainstay Goldstar’s place among the nation’s elite clubs.
Now set to compete with the best teams in Guyana, Mainstay Goldstar FC aims to make a strong impression in their debut Elite League season.
