Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – In a move that has sent ripples through Sierra Leone’s football community, Rodney Michael has resigned as Chairman of Mighty Blackpool Football Club, alleging “undue interference” from an unnamed Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) presidential aspirant.
Michael’s abrupt departure comes after what he describes as compromising pressures that undermined his leadership. In his resignation letter seen by Awoko Newspaper, the outspoken administrator stated: “My continued stay would betray the values I’ve championed throughout my career.”
The former chairman has directed that his shares in the historic club be transferred to the Mighty Blackpool fan base, while urging the executive committee to “appoint leadership that will prioritize the club’s interests above all else.”
This resignation has ignited fresh debates about the intersection of SLFA politics and club administration, with insiders suggesting this may be the first visible crack in what many describe as growing electioneering influence ahead of next year’s SLFA elections.
Club Secretary General Alhaji Foray confirmed receipt of the resignation but declined to comment on the specific allegations, stating only that “the executive will meet urgently to determine the way forward.”
Michael’s tenure since September 2021 marked a renaissance for the Tis-Tas Boys:
- Masterminded an unbeaten second-round streak in the 2022 season
- Secured multiple sponsorship deals reviving the club’s finances
- Earned a 2022 Chairman of the Year nomination at National Sports Awards
His departure leaves unfinished business, including ongoing negotiations for a new stadium partnership and youth academy development.
Michael’s football leadership extends beyond club management:
- Former SLFA presidential candidate (withdrew 2021 citing “toxic politics”)
- Current African Club Association board member for WAFU Zone A
- Persistent advocate for governance reforms in Sierra Leone football
Football analyst Mohamed Kallon noted: “Rodney’s exit reflects deeper systemic issues. When our best administrators can’t operate freely, the whole football family loses.”
The club’s next 48 hours will be critical in determining whether this resignation triggers wider upheaval in Sierra Leone’s football governance landscape. BT/7/4/2025
