October 22, 2004

A local club Hougang-based constituency sports club Paya Lebar Kovan have submit their application to join the S-league 2005, confident of meeting standards

S-League deputy CEO How Seen Yong declined to reveal details saying they are analysing the financial, technical & other aspects of the team.

The management of Paya Lebar Kovan are not new to local sports.

Businessman Steven Lee, 53, chairman of Paya Lebar Kovan CSC, was a former vice-president of the Singapore Athletic Association (SAA). Lee, who was involved in the SAA for 18 years, is currently president of MR25, a long-distance running club. He is aided by former international footballer Ho Kwang Hock, 48, who will provide technical expertise.

Lee said they have been promoting children's football at Paya Lebar Kovan CSC for some time but they want to do more as they are really passionate about football & want to go all the way to the top & that is the S-League.

Asked if they are deterred by the horror tales of some S-League clubs' financial problems as already, 4 clubs - Gombak United, Sembawang Rangers, Jurong FC and Sengkang Marine - are sitting out the league because of insurmountable debts.

Lee replied taking part in the S-League is just like a business & they have done their sums & think they can sustain themselves so they are in it for the long haul.

They are believed to have secured a main sponsor from the entertainment industry. They also have a field at Hougang Street 21, next to a newly refurbished Paya Lebar Kovan Community Club. Floodlights are being installed, which means they can also train at night.

But what about the players?

For this, Lee said they have identified them & they are playing competitively now. As for the coach, it will be a local one as there are about 50 A-Licence coaches in Singapore & few have been tested

But he reminded everybody al these will only happen if their proposal is approved by the S-League.