Goater Will Not Be National Football Coach
Noting that his ’love for Bermuda and passion for the game remains unchanged,’ Shaun Goater said that he has withdrawn from the process of being considered for the position of Head Coach of the Bermuda Men’s National Team.
The legendary footballer said, “After careful consideration, I have decided to withdraw from the process and decline the position of Head Coach of the Bermuda Men’s National Team.
“I entered this process with genuine enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility. Bermuda football has played a significant role in my life, and I approached this opportunity with the same commitment and professionalism that have guided me throughout my playing and coaching career.
“I developed and presented a comprehensive vision for the future of the national programme, including a long-term strategy for player development, performance, culture and international competitiveness. I was encouraged by the discussions that took place and grateful for the opportunity to share my ideas for Bermuda football.
“Following extensive discussions, I ultimately concluded that the structure and resources available were not sufficiently aligned with the objectives and ambitions that had been outlined throughout the process. For that reason, I felt it would not be appropriate to accept responsibility for delivering outcomes without the platform necessary to give those objectives the strongest possible chance of success.
“This decision should not be interpreted as a lack of belief in Bermuda football or a lack of desire to serve my country. Quite the opposite. My belief in the potential of Bermudian players, coaches and young people remains as strong as ever.
“Football has given me opportunities to learn from outstanding people and organisations around the world. My commitment remains the same as it has always been; to help build high-performance environments, develop players, support staff and contribute positively wherever I have the privilege to work.
“My love for Bermuda and my passion for the game remains unchanged. Thank you to everyone who offered support and encouragement throughout this process.”
Well stated, in a nutshell Bermuda lacks the infrastructure needed to deliver the results that are desired. Mr Goater has been exposed to the top flight football experience and insomuch knows what the minimum requirements are to achieve in that arena. Unfortunately Bermuda lacks that kind of support and infrastructure in every sport. I believe that Mr. Goater was seeking to make the necessary changes to start us on the right path to success however he is also not willing to compromise his integrity as an athlete who has been on the big stage and settle for below standard support and infrastructure. It’s truly sad that his experience and knowledge are not going to be a part of a promising team. It’s even sadder that Bermuda football has not risen to the occasion and seen the light that he is shining. Arsne Wenger was in the same position when he first took the helm at Arsenal and because the club rose to the occasion and put the things in place that he asked for Arsenal were able to both predict and succeed in an undefeated season. The level of success created in those days raised the bar for the entire league. I believe that if Bermuda was to fully embrace Mr. Goater’s vision for the national team it would have a similar impact on all sports in Bermuda. So I salute you sir, stand firm and keep on doing what you do best.
I am just so glad that Goater said it because if anyone else would have said the exact same thing they would have been crucified. Simply put in a nutshell Bermuda isn’t ready. They are not serious about football in Bermuda and Goater can clearly see that. Bermuda doesn’t invest enough money in local football, so the chances are extremely slim that we’ll do well on the international stage. So, before he tarnishes his good name and brand coaching Bermuda National Team, I think he chose the best option to reject the offer. You can’t even blame him. Goater knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level of soccer and Bermuda just doesn’t have it. I wish Goater would have elaborated on how far Bermuda made it in the World Cup qualifiers when he played. Today all you hear is excuses about how small of a population Bermuda has compared to other countries and we should just be happy for whatever result we get. We should just be happy to make it. I wish Goater would shut that negative excuse down that I hear SO many Bermudians believe today and I feel this is why we will always underachieve. We even tell kids that we are too small to be effective.