Guernsey footballers won't go to Orkney Island Games

Friday, 15 November 2024 12:31

Guernsey won't be sending its footballers to next year's Island Games in Orkney.

Guernsey FA says it's been unable to sort suitable travel and accommodation.

Neither the men's or women's teams will compete.

CEO Gary Roberts says it has been a difficult decision;

"Despite the considerable efforts of both the GFA and Guernsey Island Games Association, we have been unable to confirm suitable arrangements for travel and accommodation which meets players expectations as well as our safeguarding requirements as we will be travelling with a number of under 18s alongside adult players.

"We appreciate that Orkney has very limited hotel accommodation and that the organising committee has been doing everything possible to increase capacity by setting up temporary accommodation in school buildings.

"Unfortunately, the accommodation we have been allocated does not allow us to meet our responsibilities when travelling with two teams of mixed ages. As a minimum, we would need to take additional safeguarding chaperones which are not included within our competitor allocations."

"We know this will come as a huge disappointment to the players but the GFA will be actively looking for alternative opportunities for off-island competition during 2025."