DS FC raises concerns over promised prize money

The Dakas Street Football Club, that recently emerged victorious in the inaugural NCD Governor’s Women’s Soccer Cup, are baffled by the prize money they received during the presentation at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium last Sunday.

Despite being assured of K10,000 by NCD Governor Powes Parkop during the tournament’s launch last year, the community-based team only got K4,000.

During a press conference held at Gerehu Stage Two yesterday, the club’s general team manager, Max Tava, expressed frustration over the discrepancy.

Tava pointed out the expenses the club incurred in looking after its players during the tournament, stating that the prize money was insufficient to cover these costs.

He expressed disappointment that the players had dedicated their time and effort to winning the Cup, only to receive a quarter of what was promised.

Tava urged the organizing committee and Governor Powes Parkop, a strong advocate for gender equality, to honor their commitment.

Club captain Cathy Hulamari also voiced her disappointment over the incomplete prize money.

She highlighted the sacrifices made by the women, including taking time off from work to participate in the weeklong tournament.

She stressed the need for fair compensation for the team’s accomplishments and calling for transparency in the prize money distribution.

The local club hopes that their situation will draw attention to the importance of adequately rewarding teams and players for their hard work and dedication.

Meanwhile, in responds to the claims, Tournament director Billy Aki refuted the allegations made by DS Football Club, stating that they were completely incorrect and misinterpreted.

"A signed document from NCD Governor Powes Parkop outlined that the winners were supposed to receive K5,000 and not K10,000, as claimed by the DS Football Club." Mr. Aki said.

He emphasized that this breakdown was clearly specified in the document.

Aki mentioned that this was the first instance of such a misunderstanding occurring during prize money distribution.

He assured that they always meticulously verify and present prize money to the winners in all categories.

While DS FC received K4,000, Aki clarified that they were meant to receive K5,000 as specified in the document.

He suggested that if the club had realized there was a shortfall in the funds provided, they should have approached the management on the same day to address the discrepancy instead of waiting several days to raise the issue.