Found at: http://www.anguillaguide.com/article/articleprint/3311/-1/131/
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Vernon Hodge Receives FIFA's Highest Honour
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The Anguilla Football Association (AFA) has presented the FIFA Centennial Award of Merit to Vernon Hodge, a humble but accomplished former local footballer, on February 9.
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Vernon Hodge receives award from Raymond Guishard
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FIFA, introduced the Centennial Order of Merit to celebrate its 100th anniversary and to credit those who have had a profound influence on the history of the game in the 204 member associations.
The AFA nominated Hodge for his national football accomplishments which include his role as a former national player and national coach, selection to the Anguilla National Team from 1975 – 1993, captain of the national team from 1995 -1996, assistant coach for senior national team in 2000 – 2002 and chairman of Technical Management Committee.
In his congratulatory message to Mr Hodge, FIFA President Sepp Blatter acknowledged, “In the course of the last 100 years, members of the FIFA family, like yourself, have enabled the game of football to develop in a superlative manner with unparalleled dedication and enthusiasm. Without their understanding and commitment, football would not play such an important role in society today.”
Vernon Hodge a footballer, coach, student of the game, administrator and the epitome of fair play, is considered one of the best Anguillian players in the history of football on the island.
FIFA’s highest Centennial honour has been bestowed upon him for his contribution to football in Anguilla.
In underscoring the value of this honour and the historic nature of the event, AFA President, Raymond Guishard stated, “This is the highest award given by FIFA and I believe there is no one more deserving than Vernon Hodge. This honour puts him in the company of internationally renowned recipients like Pele, Franz Beckenbauer, Dr. João Havelange (FIFA HonoraryPresident), Jules Rimet (“father” of the world cup), Carlos Valderrama, Sir Stanley F. Rous and George Weah.
Despite having retired from the game as a player for more than a decade, Vernon Hodge is one of the most well-known football personalities in Anguilla. His passion and commitment for the advancement of the game is virtually without peer.
He has been a true sportsman and a tremendous player for Anguilla. He is undoubtedly regarded as one of the island’s unparalleled ambassadors.
The Executive Committee and members of the Anguilla Football Association extend heartfelt congratulations to Vernon Hodge on this historic occasion and calls upon all Anguillians to share in this special moment.