Harlem primed for 2013 campaign

KFC Harlem United began 2013 with an emphatic four goals to nil victory over former champions and current Football Association knockout champions, Northern Concrete & Steel Bombers. They might have made a serious statement to their rivals if they could have won their second match for the year, but the lowly, but quite troublesome Wacky Rollers came back from two goals down to force a 3-all draw.

Harlem may have been buoyed coming into 2013 with two important events in the life of the club in December 2012. KFC consolidated their recent sponsorship of Dominica's most successful team (more than one major award on average per year in their 42 years of existence) with a presentation package of nearly $13,000 over two years.

Harlem President Don Leogal hoped that the relationship would last a very long time, and why not. He also had profound thanks and appreciation for Karl Nassief, the Managing Director of Fine Foods Inc, the agent for KFC in Dominica and Juliet Martin, Sales & Marketing representative of Fine Foods Inc for responding to their request for sponsorship after four years without a sponsor. The presentation to KFC Harlem at the Newtown Centre included two sets of uniforms, footballs, refreshments and transportation. Leogal also hoped that the company would be able to provide employment for some of their players.

Martin said Fine Foods was happy to be associated with Harlem with its long history and tradition. KFC on the other hand was interested in giving back to the people and communities all over the world where they did business. KFC were happy to partner with Harlem, and hoped that Harlem winning ways continued. She had expectations that Harlem would continue to do the good work they have been doing with young people, the future of the country.

Harlem team captain, Elmond Derrick received the timely and attractive package from KFC.

Ten days later on Sunday December 23, 2012, Harlem United Sports & Community Club presented awards to their deserving players who helped the club win the DFA Lime Premier League for 2011-2012 and the first ever Creole Club against Bouillante of Guadeloupe and NCS Bombers of Portsmouth at the Windsor Park Stadium.

Harlem presented uniforms to their Division I and Premier Division teams recognised some stalwart non-playing members. Errol Blaize was named most valuable player in the Creole Cup, and Elmond Derrick was the most valuable player in the premier league team.

Players and staff associated with the Creole Cup also received cash incentive from the club's management at that awards ceremony. Kertist Augustus, trade unionist and former right and left winger of Harlem and a member of the unbeaten run in 1973 when the club won three titles, delivered the feature address to his younger colleagues. He developed his theme: Where we come from – Where we are – Where are going

It was on the strength of these significant events that Harlem came into 2013 with the desire to turn things around and contend for the 2013 premiership title as defending champions.