The Saint Lucia Football Association Inc. (SLFA) and the wider football fraternity are mourning the loss of one of the island’s most passionate football administrators, Ms. Jennifer Gaston, affectionately known as “The Grand Dame of Gros Islet Football.”
A beloved figure in local sports, Gaston dedicated decades of service to football, both within her community and nationally. She served as President and Manager of Orion Football Club, Public Relations Officer of the Gros Islet Football League, and Communications Officer of the SLFA. Her leadership was pivotal in advancing Gros Islet’s football development and creating opportunities for young players to thrive.
Her commitment to youth football was unmatched. As head of the Gros Islet Youth Football Programme, she partnered with former English footballer Les Ferdinand to organize a training camp for young athletes, ensuring that even the Boys’ Training Centre was included — a reflection of her inclusive spirit. She also coordinated the distribution of school packs filled with essential learning supplies for students in need.
Under her leadership, Orion FC captured the District Cup in 2011 and the SLFA Promotional Cup in 2012, earning promotion to the Silver Division. Her contributions extended beyond the field, serving as Mistress of Ceremonies at the 2011 National Sports Awards and earning the Saint Lucia Les Pitons Medal (Bronze) for community service in 2012. In 2018, she received the Longevity Award from the Gros Islet Football League for her lasting impact on the game.
SLFA President Lyndon Cooper paid tribute to Gaston’s remarkable legacy, describing her as a selfless leader whose compassion touched lives far beyond football.
“One thing you can say for sure about Jennifer Gaston is that she was always willing to go the extra mile for people, and especially for young people, whether in sports, music, whatever the case may be,” said Cooper. “She had a generosity of spirit that should serve as an example for us all. Her contribution to the development of football has been invaluable, and her presence at Gros Islet games was sorely missed during the period of her illness. We thank God for the gift of her life, and we will surely miss her.”
