Previous Story
NMASA takes over sports complex
|
Posted on Dec 30 2013
The tug-of-war between Northern Marianas Amateur Sports Association and Division of Sports and Recreation ended this year with the former given the right to manage and operate the contested Oleai Sports Complex.
The DSR was eventually disbanded, while NMASA was included in the approved budget for fiscal year 2014 and took over the management of the facility in October. NMASA’s share from the pie was $193, 228, allowing the association to hire staff.
‘Former DSR head and respected sports official Tony Rogolifoi was named NMASA executive director and is in charge of the takeover of the facility.
Less than three months after assuming the responsibility at the complex, significant improvements took place at the track and field facility, the Francisco “Tan Ko” Palacios Ballfield, Miguel “Tan Ge” Pangelinan Ballfield, and the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium.
More improvements will be done next year, according to Rogolifoi, adding that regular programs will also be in placed next season to make full use of the newly improved complex.
The complex is expected to undergone a major facelift once NMASA fully operates on its own and identify funding sources for its programs. Right now, NMASA is waiting for the Senate approval on House Bill 18-111.
Known as Northern Marianas Sports Act of 2013 and was introduced by Rep. Tony Sablan (IR-Saipan) and approved by the House in October this year, the bill will give NMASA authority on levying of fees for usage of facilities, awarding of vending and advertising rights, and operation of a public lottery provisions that are important in NMASA’s bid to function on its own and raise funds to support its operations and programs.
