DĂLI â In a pivotal meeting aimed at solidifying the long-term future of cricket within the nationâs sporting landscape, Emily OâBrien, the International Cricket Council (ICC) East Asia-Pacific (EAP) Finance & Operations Manager, visited the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of Timor-Leste.
Ms. OâBrien was joined by Mariana Dias Ximenes Oly, the General Secretary of the Timor-Leste Cricket Board (TLCB), for discussions with key officials from the National Olympic Committee, signaling a strong move toward greater integration and partnership between the TLCB and the broader national sports authority.
High-Level Attendance đď¸
The meeting, held at the NOC headquarters, saw the presence of the following top National Olympic Committee officials:
- Mr. Mateus Carvalho da Cruz, 1st Vice President
- Mr. Vicente de Carvalho da Silva, 2nd Vice President
- Mr. Laurentino Guterres, Secretary General
The attendance of the Vice Presidents and the Secretary General underscores the significance the NOC places on the development of new and emerging sports, such as cricket, in Timor-Leste.
The Agenda: Development and Collaboration đ
The core focus of the discussion was to explore avenues for cooperation, particularly in areas of athlete development, facility usage, and governance standards, as the TLCB continues its mission to grow cricket from the grassroots level up.
ICC EAP Manager Emily OâBrien presented an overview of the ICCâs development programs and the criteria for maximizing support, stressing the importance of alignment with the nation’s overall sports strategy.
TLCB General Secretary Mariana Dias Ximenes Oly highlighted the progress made in the Cricket in the Schools program and sought the NOCâs guidance and support in securing access to wider training and competition resources.
“This meeting marks a crucial step in our journey,” stated Ms. Oly. “Working closely with the National Olympic Committee is essential for ensuring cricket can access the necessary infrastructure and expertise to develop elite Timorese athletes and achieve regional success.”
Commitment to the Olympic Movement
NOC officials reportedly expressed their strong support for the TLCBâs efforts. 1st Vice President Mateus Carvalho da Cruz emphasized the NOCâs mandate to assist all national federations in achieving international recognition and providing opportunities for young people.
“We recognize the passion and growth potential of cricket in Timor-Leste,” a statement from the NOC is expected to read. “We are committed to helping the TLCB integrate effectively into the national sports structure, adhering to the principles of the Olympic Movement.”
The successful visit is anticipated to pave the way for formal cooperation agreements, potentially unlocking more resources for cricket through Olympic Solidarity programs and strengthening the TLCBâs institutional capacity.
