The Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex

The Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex (the Complex), which is situated in Wildey, St. Michael, was opened as a sporting facility in November 1992. The Construction of the Complex was part of a strategic initiative by the Government of Barbados to promote sports tourism.

The Complex, which is fully air-conditioned, is the island’s premier indoor multi-purpose facility, conceived and designed as a venue for large sporting and cultural events. The complex has a seating capacity of approximately 4,500 to 5,000 persons.

Management and operations of the Complex were entrusted to The Wildey Sports Complex Incorporated (WSCI), a non-profit organization, incorporated under the Companies Act of Barbados. Management was given the overall mandate to develop and implement the marketing plan, the operations and maintenance plan, and financial plan.

WSCI ceased operating at the end of June 1997 and until March 31, 1999, the Complex was managed by a semi-autonomous body, under the direction of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour, Community Development and Sports. During this period the Ministry’s policies and procedures were followed to:
· procure goods and services
· recruit and select staff; and
· manage revenues and expenses.

From July 1997 to March 1999, the General Manger had responsibility for the day-to- day operation of the Complex and consulted with the Permanent Secretary on policy issues.

On April 1, 1999, Gymnasium Ltd. was incorporated as a private company, with Government as the sole shareholder under a board of directors. At present there thirty-eight employees made up of Administrative staff, technicians and general workers who are all managed by a General Manager in the person of Mr. Ken Mason.