A transformative moment for local sport has arrived. Amalgamated Security Services Ltd. (ASSL) Financial Director John Aboud and Senator David Nakhid have officially launched the DNA East/West Corridor Football League, a groundbreaking national grassroots initiative designed to uplift youth, strengthen communities, and reignite Trinidad and Tobago’s passion for football.
Slated to kick off on December 06th, 2025, the DNA Grassroots League promises to redefine community football. With strong backing from government ministries, corporate sponsors, and the state broadcaster TTT, the programme is equipped to provide long-overdue opportunities for young players and revive football culture across the nation.
A $120,000 Top Prize — One of the Largest in Local Community Football
The league features an impressive TT$120,000 top prize, with 32 teams set to battle across an exciting new tournament structure designed to be competitive, entertaining, and professionally organized.
According to Nakhid, the initiative is more than just sport—it’s a movement to rebuild community identity, reduce crime, and create new pathways for youth development.
“It is intended to keep the Corridor together, and we’re looking for that civic and community engagement across the board. It is possible with this tournament,” Nakhid said.
Empowering Youth Through Sport, Health, and Education
The DNA Grassroots League is designed as a holistic development programme, incorporating:
- Football training and competition
- Crime intervention and prevention support
- Health and medical screenings for players
- Educational initiatives and personal development opportunities
ASSL Financial Director John Aboud emphasized the company’s commitment to community impact through long-term, sustainable investment.
“We’re supporting these leagues because we need upliftment in our communities, and Trinidad and Tobago needs this injection of hope,” Aboud stated.
A Return to Community Football Roots
Former national player and medical officer Dr. Wayne Piggott has outlined the tournament’s long-term plans to:
- Rebuild community pride
- Revitalize local recreational spaces
- Offer young people safer alternatives and structured activities
- Reconnect the public with grassroots football
Community voices also echoed strong support.
Local football advocate Carlton Malbarine reflected on the legacy of community football in the 1970s and 1980s, recalling the immense public excitement of teams like Flamboyant and Flamengo in the East.“We are trying to unearth the next Dwight Yorke or Russell Latapy,” Malbarine said. “This league is about bringing back positive energy to the youth.”
Government and Public Sector Support
The launch was attended by several government officials who highlighted the project’s importance, including:
- Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge
- Minister in the Ministry of Energy Ernesto Kear
- Minister in the Ministry of Housing Phillip Alexander
They emphasized the league’s potential to contribute to:
- National safety
- Youth empowerment
- Mental and physical wellness
- Long-term community resilience
Creating Opportunities and Reducing Crime
The DNA Grassroots League is also aligned with crime-reduction efforts. With structured competition, mentorship, and positive community engagement, the league aims to steer at-risk youth toward productive pathways.
Nakhid reiterated the tournament’s mission:
“We want to keep our youth engaged, supported, and inspired. This league is just the beginning.”
A New Dawn for Football in T&T
With its official kick-off on December 06th, 2025, the DNA Grassroots League is poised to become the largest and most impactful community-based football programme in Trinidad and Tobago in decades. The initiative promises to:
- Showcase new football talent
- Strengthen community bonds
- Ignite national enthusiasm
- Create opportunities for young players
- Bring back the golden era of local football culture
This is more than a league—it is a movement to reclaim community pride and chart a new future for Trinidad and Tobago’s youth.
