Derrick Nicholas new CEO of the Leeward Island Cricket Association

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Former Cricket Operations Officer of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), Derrick Nicholas, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Leeward Islands Cricket Association (LICA).

Mr. Nicholas, an Antigua & Barbuda national, brings to the newly created post a wealth of knowledge and experience in sports administration.  The recently established LICA Secretariat, which he heads, is based at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, Antigua.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Nicholas said, “The creation of a dedicated Secretariat and my appointment as CEO clearly demonstrate that LICA is serious about raising the standard of cricket within all the territories that comprise the Leeward Islands.  My role is not just to work with the Board in developing and executing a strategic plan but, within that context, improve both the welfare and professionalism of our players and manage our relationships with the many stakeholders who are vital to our future success – member Associations, Territorial Boards, the WICB, umpires, sponsors and Governments.”

Mr. Nicholas added, “With the establishment of the Secretariat, all these various stakeholders in Leeward Islands cricket will now have a central point of contact for improving their relationship with the Board and maximizing their contribution to the sport.  Our first priority is to ensure we are more competitive at the regional level while simultaneously putting in place a development plan for our cricketers at all levels.”

The appointment of Mr. Nicholas is a demonstration by LICA that it is serious about the administration of the sport in the 21st century.  President of LICA, Mr. Auckland Hector, speaking on the appointment of Nicholas said: “LICA is extremely happy for this moment”   He further stated that “It (Secretariat) has been a long time coming, but we are happy that it is finally a reality.  We expect to see an improvement in the administration of our sport, strengthening of relations with our key stakeholders – players, umpires, sponsors, Territorial Boards, Governments and the media.”

The Board of Directors of LICA would like to thank the Government of Antigua & Barbuda as well as the West Indies Cricket Board for their assistance in making the LICA Secretariat a reality.