FAS Unveils New Gen Sec

Local football body picks Sailors' sporting director Badri to lift the game 'at all levels'

- Deepanraj Ganesan

The Football Association of Singapore's (FAS) new leadership team are shaking things up with a new man hired to run local football's governing body.

The FAS announced on Sept 1 that Badri Ghent, who has stepped down as sporting director of Singapore Premier League champions Lion City Sailors, has been appointed FAS' general secretary.

The general secretary is the top official at the FAS secretariat and Badri is seen as the first major hire by the new council. FAS president and tech billionaire Forrest Li and his slate of candidates were elected to a four-year term at an extraordinary congress in April.

Badri, 36, will replace Chew Chun Liang, who has resigned.

The FAS general secretary is responsible for day-to-day operations, implementation of strategies and policies, and the hiring of department heads.

In a statement on Sept 1, FAS noted that Badri brings with him a wealth of experience in football management and operations, adding that the appointment "comes at a pivotal moment for Singapore football".

It said: "With a strong track record of success, effective implementation and deep experience across both club and developmental structures, he is well positioned to lead FAS in its mission to elevate the game at all levels, from grassroots to elite international performance."