The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the National Milling Company of Guyana Inc. (NAMILCO) collaborated to offer financial relief and a six-month gift certificate to former national footballer Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, whose residence in Georgetown was devastated by a fire on October 4.
In a modest handover ceremony at the GFF Headquarters in Georgetown, Richardson, a former Carolina Railhawks striker, received these gestures of goodwill.
Tragically, the blaze in Howes and Lyng Streets, Charlestown, resulted in the loss of all belongings for Richardson, his wife, and their children.
During the ceremony, Richardson expressed his heartfelt appreciation to both the GFF and NAMILCO for their assistance during this challenging period. He shared, “Everything’s going good so far. I want to thank GFF President Wayne Forde and NAMILCO for coming on board with us and supporting Under-17 football and supporting me during this tragedy.”
In response, President Forde highlighted the unity of the football community in Guyana, underscoring their commitment to stand by Richardson as a family and offer steadfast support. Forde stated, “When we say that we are a football family, we are not using those words lightly; we are indeed a family, and as the head of this family, it is my duty to make sure that whenever a member of this family is facing the kind of tragedy Gregory is going through at the moment, then the fraternity must stand together and do all that we can to support that family member.”
Forde further emphasized the GFF’s role as a federation to step in and provide assistance when any of its members face challenges. He also noted the extensive support provided by the National Milling Company over the years, particularly in backing youth development, female football, and various football programs. It came as no surprise that NAMILCO’s CEO, Mr. Bert Sukhai, was eager to extend generosity towards Richardson.
Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson is an accomplished Guyanese footballer with an impressive record of 17 international goals for Guyana. He has made significant contributions to international and regional teams, including Colorado Rapids in the MLS, Puerto Rico Islanders (USL), Carolina Railhawks (USL), and Joe Public (T&T). Additionally, he has played a pivotal role in local football clubs such as Pele, Alpha United, Beacon, Georgetown Football Club, and Fruta Conquerors.
Since retiring from professional football, Richardson has remained actively engaged in youth football development by coaching a NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 League team. The NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power Under-17 National Academy Playoff, which complements the GFF Academy Training Centre (ATC) program, was inaugurated on October 7.
