Copyright thenassauguardian
The Bahamas Football Association (BFA) congratulates its General Secretary Frederick H. Lunn Jr. on receiving the Distinguished Service Medal during the 2025 National Honours awards ceremony. Presented under the National Honours Act (2016), the Distinguished Service Medal recognizes Bahamian citizens for exceptional service in the public service or civil society. Conferred by Governor General Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, the award celebrates individuals whose contributions have strengthened national development and community advancement. Lunn has devoted more than five decades of his life to national service through hospitality, sport, and community building. Beginning his career in 1976 as a dishwasher, he rose through the ranks to become a general manager in the hotel industry, where he pioneered guest-focused initiatives such as the “We Go an Extra Smile” campaign at the Grand Hotel. His leadership later extended to Sheraton’s regional sales office and the pre-opening team of the 800-room Ramada Renaissance in Washington, D.C., a milestone achievement in Bahamian hospitality. Lunn earned a master’s degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Maryland, where his thesis explored the prerequisites of organizational change in collaboration with The Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism. At the request of the late Dr. Keva Bethel, Lunn returned home in 1991 to head the Tourism Studies Division at The College of The Bahamas. Beyond tourism, Lunn’s dedication to service has touched countless lives. As marketing director for Chelsea’s Choice, he launched the “Can We Care” holiday drive, providing support to Bahamian families in need. A proud Rotarian and two-time Paul Harris Fellow, he has chaired numerous charitable golf tournaments, including the Errol Brown Children in Need at Christmas event, raising millions for local causes. In sport, Lunn has played a pivotal role in shaping football’s growth in The Bahamas. He introduced beach soccer to the country and co-founded the Bahamas Youth Football League in 1993. As general secretary of the BFA, he has led with integrity and accountability, helping to expose corruption at the international level — a stand that earned both him and BFA Immediate Past President Anton Sealey nominations for Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year. “It’s a humbling experience to be recognized in this way,” said Lunn. “Serving through sport and community work has always been about giving back and helping others rise. This award is a reflection of everyone who has shared that mission of service above self.” BFA President Anya James commended Lunn’s decades of leadership, calling the recognition well-deserved. “Mr. Lunn’s contributions go far beyond football. His service, vision, and commitment have uplifted communities, inspired young people, and strengthened our national identity through sport and service,” she said. Lunn’s life’s work reflects his dedication, integrity, and heart for service. The BFA celebrates his achievements and expresses deep gratitude for his lasting contribution to The Bahamas and the sport he loves.
