Mahyan (centre) chairing the meeting with (from left) Abdillah, Azyzy, Mohamad, Bujang, Roslan and Ibrahim.
KUCHING: The setting up of the Sarawak Coaches and Former Players Association is well received by Sarawak team manager Awang Mahyan Awang Mohamed.
According to the legendary Ngap Sayot coach, it is high time that Sarawak had such a special organisation.
“I am in full support for this association because Sarawak needs a special body which has the welfare of the coaches and ex-players in mind.
“At the same time, the association must be able to contribute to the development of football locally,” he said after attending a pro tem committee meeting.
Mahyan proposed two former coaches Bujang Mayah and Mohamad Mantali to be appointed as pro tem president and deputy president respectively.
He also proposed that Bukit Kota assemblyman cum Assistant Minister for Agriculture Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail as the patron of the association.
“My hope for this association is that it can get the support from all parties to take care of the welfare of the coaches and ex-players apart from boosting the development of football in the state,” said Mahyan who is the pro tem advisor.
Meanwhile, Bujang said the proposal to set up the said association had received an encouraging response from the coaches and ex-state players.
Currently, several former coaches and players such as Jamal Wasli, Bulhaji Wahab, Khalel Mohd Ibrahim, Mohamad Mantali, Morshidi Awet, Sopian, Mohd Tuah Ismail and Zulkipli Rosli had voiced their support for the cause.
“We need the support from at least six divisions in the state to form the association.
“Until now, we have the support of seven divisions Kuching, Sibu, Limbang, Mukah, Sarikei, Samarahan and Bintulu,” he explained.
He went on to announce the appointment of Azyzy Ahmad and Abdillah Zen as the pro tem secretary and treasurer.
Also present at the meeting were Registrar of Societies official Roslan Dan and coach Ibrahim Mantali.