Butler to enter race for JFF presidency

Outspoken Phoenix All-Stars Academy boss Craig Butler says he intends to run for the presidency of the Jamaica Football Federation, with the vision to carry the Reggae Boyz to the final of a World Cup.

Butler who is also the agent and father of young sensation Leon Bailey, is one of the many candidates vying to replace Captain Horace Burrell who passed away last month.

Speaking on Hitz 92 FM’s Sports Explosion on Tuesday morning, Butler says he wants to change the mindset of the local football culture.

“I’m throwing my hat into the ring not because I feel that I want it for glory but because I want to execute the promise I made to Jamaica years ago; I want to see Jamaica go to a World Cup final before I die,” said Butler.

He also confirmed that he will meet with the different parish presidents with the hope that they will vote for him at the September 16 election. But Butler wants the various FA's to ignore personal agendas and put the sport first.

“If there is anybody that is better qualified to lead the country to the next level then he should get it, but if I am, then don’t let cronyism or your friend is this guy or this is the way it was before (dictate the proceedings); I am going to put Jamaica on the map as a footballing nation respected by the world; mediocrity is a thing of the past,” said Butler. Nominations for the presidency will open on July 18 and close August 2.