Project Phoenix needs more funding, urges HKFA chief Mark Sutcliffe
HKFA chief says government must increase spending on project to HK$100 million annually for it to bear fruit and become a big success
Hong Kong Football Association chief Mark Sutcliffe has launched a staunch defence of the much criticised Project Phoenix and urged the government not only to continue its financial support for the sport, but also to increase funding.
Sutcliffe says 22 of Project Phoenix's 33 recommendations have been completed and more cash is needed if these seeds are to bear fruit.
Without continued government support, football in Hong Kong may wither on the vine
"If Hong Kong football wants to improve and build on the foundation laid by Project Phoenix, it actually needs more resources, not less," said Sutcliffe.
Sutcliffe in a 12-page position statement "The Phoenix is Rising" insists the HKFA has "transformed itself" and is now in the process of "transforming the sport".
"Without continued government support, football in Hong Kong may wither on the vine and that would be disappointing considering the significant progress that has been made. It is important for football that this process not only continues but that it gathers momentum," Sutcliffe said.
The government's three-year Project Phoenix programme comes to a close at the end of October. It has committed HK$60 million with an annual payout of HK$20 million. The government will decide in the next few months whether to continue its support.
