PELE F.C. WALL OF HONOR 40th Anniversary Honorees

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John Yates

It was sometime in 1974, that John was approached by Mullin Scar (Lennox Arthur) and Billy Braithwaite to join the Pele FC as President and accepted the position.  

Joining the club simultaneously at that time was the late Joe and Alice Lyken who along with Billy B and Lennox were the movers and shakers of the club. Later, Mr. Yates was elected as President of Georgetown Football League.

William ‘Billy’ Braithwaite

Billy served both as President and Secretary of Pele F.C. during his long tenure in our most successful period. Always focused he acted on the belief of the four D’s: Discipline, Determination, Dedication and Dignity both on and off the field Billy’s Leadership and philosophy served as our guiding principles helping to bridge the gaps that block so many youth on their path to being outstanding footballers and citizens. He shared his vision complete with a detailed road map and caution signs along life’s journey.

Peter ‘Zeno’ Gulliver

Peter started at Pele FC in 1972.

Peter ventured into his first Coaching assignment in 1975 as the Youth under 14 and under 15 Coach. In 1986 Peter became Head Coach of our First Female Team while continuing to coach the youth Boys Team. These Coaching assignments helped Peter to be prepared for his transition to the Senior Team Coach following Lennox Arthur.

Royston ‘All in One’ Erskine

Royston is one man of many talents. He became a member of Pele Football Club in 1973 and following a stint in the GNS returned to the club in 1976. With great love and passion for Pele Football Club coupled with his leadership skills (one of his key characteristics) he accepted the Presidency of Pele F.C in 2003, during one of its most vulnerable period of the 40 years of existence.

Harold ‘Lightweight’ Kissoon

A founding member of Pele FC, was an avid football fan, a City Councilman, Football coach, a family man, a friend and mentor to every youth that crossed his path. The closure of the racecourse at Durban Park, and its conversion to a series of playing fields allowed Harold to organize sporting events for the underprivileged youth in the Lodge area. Harold was instrumental in becoming the first Secretary/treasurer of the club.

Roxanne ‘Pukin’ Keith

Roxanne, started supporting Pele Football Club at age 13 in 1971 about the time that Hull City soccer team visited Guyana. She made the Pele FC team as a starter in the right back defense position. Pele FC won the women’s league for the two years it was held with the other teams being Santos, Western and Vasco Football Clubs. In 1998 she was called up to the Guyana National Women team to challenge the visiting Suriname National Women side. In her own words “Pukin” sums up her level of support “I am always talking about Pele F.C. and our players and will never stop supporting them

Cecil Jarred Jacques

Cecil joined Pele Football Club as a player  and selected to the National Team thus enabling him to be a part of the first Guyana Team to beat Suriname in over 20 years in a first round World Cup qualifier. After retiring from competitive football in 1985, Cecil remained active in multiple Executive positions in Pele Football Club, Georgetown Football Club and the Georgetown Football League. Cecil was elected President of Pele Football Club in 2005 and re-elected with a resounding vote of confidence through the current period.

Rita Alleyne

Rita created miracles and brought the team to life on the field. All of the original Pele F. C. jerseys were hand sewn by her with a flawless touch. Our original outfits included green knitted shirts with a touch of yellow around the neck and sleeves; not forgetting the shinny green shorts. The neon colors dazzled and engaged the audience and helped distinguish us with a unique style of play.

Cecil McKenzie

Cecil agreed to serve as President for the team for six months until Frank Watson was nominated and eventually took over leadership. Cecil helped secure job for some of the members at the Chronicle Newspaper where he was employed and continues to be a dedicated and committed supporter of the team and its members.

Clyde R. ‘Farmer’ Browne

Clyde excelled in High School at Queen’s College (Boys only) for his education. He was one of the founding members of Pele F.C., and one of the teams trainers from its inception. Some players still hold “fond” memories of his practice sessions. Clyde was scouted to attend Clemson University in South Carolina. In his first year he was not only on the Honor Roll but was the League’s MVP. This in turn sparked his College Coach to visit Guyana to seek more talent.

Frank Watson

The ancient Greeks  said "whom the Gods love, die young." Frank was the second President of Pele F.C. and departed this world at the tender age of 23 in a tragic crash of an aircraft he was co-piloting on Dec. 3,1973. His many accomplishments even at his young age would be the subject of another missive. Frank had no acquaintances, everyone he came into contact with became a friend. His love for the game never waned and after returning as an airline pilot he threw all his time, energy and financial support into Pele F.C. We miss Frank everyday and honor his memory with the  nation wide Frank Watson U15 Tournament.

Gordon ‘Ultimate Warrior’ Braithwaite

Gordon excelled academically and In 1977 at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden he made his senior national Team debut against Trinidad and Tobago ….It didn’t take very long for him to be recognized by American College scouts and the following year the ‘Ultimate Warrior’ was off to Clemson University in the USA on a football scholarship.

Denzil Thompson

Denzil Thompson stood out in a crowd.  More than six feet tall his height contrasted with his quiet, soft spoken demeanor. One of Denzil’s greatest contributions to Pele Football Club was as a Coach. He reshaped the team by refocusing our efforts on the tactical aspect of the game and inspiring all the players to be in top physical condition regardless of the weather.

Merle John-Thompson

Merle has always been an avid All Boys Town YMCA/Pele Football Club supporter from our inception. She was heavily involved in the social aspects of the Club promoting our social activities to ensure their success. Her loyalty and dedication from our early stages has always been greatly appreciated.

Terrance Archer

Terrence joined Pele Football club in 1978. Under Terrence’s leadership the Club won many championships such as- The Father Niles Knockout Trophy; The Demico League Cup; The Presidents Cup; The Champion of Champions Soccer Championships; and The Brazilian Cup, among others. One notable personal achievement for Terrence was being named - Footballer of the Year in 1983. He last represented both Club and Country in 1995.

© All rights and images reserved by Pele F.C. Alumni Corporation