Photo courtesy of Ko Po Hui
SINGAPORE, 27 January 2012: The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) today announced the retirement of Geylang United Football Club’s (GUFC) chairman Mr Patrick Ang and appointment of Mr Leong Kok Fann as the new chairman of GUFC.
Mr Leong, a former international who has represented Singapore in the Malaysia Cup and SEA Games tournaments, is the managing director of SHL Singapore, a consultancy firm which helps companies drive better business results through superior insights into people's behavior, ability and potential. The 53-year old is also currently a member of the FAS Council and serves as chairman of the FAS Captains' Advisory Panel.
The former national midfielder said: "I am very humbled by this appointment as Geylang United has a commendable track record in domestic league and cup competitions since the mid-1970s. This legacy is due largely to Mr Patrick Ang's leadership, dedication and passion for the game.
"I look forward to working closely with the sponsors, club management & staff, players and volunteers to continue the good work in developing and providing opportunities for young talent to fulfil their career aspirations. With the new S.League initiatives aimed at raising the standard of Singapore football, I am hopeful the fans will continue their support for the club."
In welcoming the appointment, FAS President Zainudin Nordin said: "Kok Fann is not only an ex-international but he is someone who remains closely involved with the game today, whether it is in his capacity as a FAS council member or spending Saturdays imparting his skills and knowledge to the students at a football academy. I am impressed by the breadth of his football knowledge and his humility, and I am confident that he will excel in the role of club chairman of Geylang United."
Mr Zainudin also paid tribute to the contributions of the outgoing chairman, Mr Patrick Ang, who has held the post since 1997.
"Under his stewardship, Geylang United have been one of the most efficient clubs in implementing the S.League's key programmes related to youth development, grassroots football and community outreach. Apart from his portfolio at GUFC, Patrick has also contributed immensely to the promotion and development of Singapore football as a volunteer with the FAS and the National Team for several years. In fact, Patrick was the chairperson of the task force which was established in 1995 to study the feasibility of setting up a professional football league in Singapore," said Mr Zainudin.
"Patrick has invested much time and energy in the growth of the club, and Singapore football, over the past few decades. On behalf of the FAS and S.League, I would like to put on record my sincere thanks and appreciation to Patrick for his commitment and contributions to Singapore football," he added.
Mr Ang, 61, said: "I am privileged to have served as the President and Chairman of Geylang International and Geylang United respectively and I am proud of our club's record in both the S.League and its predecessor league, the FAS Premier League. In this regard, I would like to thank the FAS and S.League management which have, over the years, been actively seeking ways to raise the profile of local football. I would also like to express my gratitude to both current and former staff, players and volunteers who have worked hard to maintain the proud heritage of the Eagles over the past two decades.
"While I am sad to leave the club, I do believe the time is now right for a fresh person to take the reins. I am confident that the club will be ably led by Mr Leong Kok Fann who has vast experience in the commercial sector and footballing fraternity. At the same time, the S.League is now entering a new phase, and I believe it is well-positioned to scale new heights in the years ahead."