The National Sports Authority (NSA) has responded to the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) concerning the recent appointment of the Leone Stars’ new head coach. In a letter to the Acting General Secretary of the SLFA, the authority underlined its reservations about the appointment process.

Acknowledging the SLFA’s authority in coach appointments, the NSA stressed that such decisions should reflect the objectives outlined in Article 2(h) of their statute. The article emphasizes hosting international competitions and fostering a positive relationship with the leading sports organization in Sierra Leone.

The letter stated, “While the Ministry of Sports (MOS) and NSA recognize the SLFA’s authority in coaching appointments, we believe these decisions should honor the spirit and objectives of your statute.”

There were concerns that the appointment process seemed incomplete. The NSA noted a lack of public notice for the position, a formalized screening process involving the NSA Technical Committee, medical tests, and police clearances for shortlisted candidates.

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At a meeting on 3rd October 2023, the Ministry of Sports and the NSA reminded the SLFA of the ministry’s supervisory role and the NSA’s regulatory authority over registered sports associations in Sierra Leone.

Highlighting the previous Leone Stars technical team’s underwhelming performance over their three-year tenure, the ministry and NSA provided recommendations:

  1. The recently appointed technical team should be given a provisional three-month contract, covering October to December 2023, solely for the two upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
  2. In December 2023, the SLFA should publicly advertise the head coach position, inviting applications from qualified individuals both within and outside Sierra Leone.
  3. An interview panel, involving the NSA/MOS Technical Committee, should evaluate all applicants and submit their recommendations, naming the chosen head coach and support staff.

Concluding the letter, the NSA extended its gratitude to the SLFA’s Executive Committee and the broader football community, awaiting a prompt response regarding their concerns and recommendations.