LONDON, England (CMC) — CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb says significant steps have been made towards reforming the hemispheric organisation since he took over the position one year ago.

Webb says CONCACAF has been able to introduce measures aimed at restoring accountability in the body responsible for football in the Caribbean and Americas.

Webb was elected president to replace Jack Warner who emerged at the centre of a major financial scandal and election bribery plot involving more than 20 Caribbean football leaders.

“Over the past year, we have seen the first steps towards reforming CONCACAF. By redefining our destiny, we have set the course that will write a new chapter in our region’s future,” said Webb.

“Our goal is to bring back the trust and confidence by establishing a process of accountability,” added Webb. “It’s ultimately about the passion to play this beautiful game.”

Webb has pointed at gold medals won by Mexican men and American women, the bronze medal captured by the Canadian women, at the 2012 Olympic Games and the US women winning the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup as major achievements within his first year.

“We have set an unprecedented landmark by becoming the first confederation in history to win the Gold Medal in both male and female categories in the same Olympic Games,” the CONCACAF president stated.

“The real challenge of uniting nations that are in such different places, not only in the development of their game but also in their society grid, is defining an integral regional vision of the future.”

Webb has announced plans for more investment in grass-roots, education, marketing and infrastructure as a way of preparing the region’s footballers to compete on the international stage.

“I’m hopeful to build upon the progress we have already made so far,” said Webb.

“We are in the right path to deliver the promise of providing opportunities to fulfil our sport’s potential by overcoming obstacles and conquering victories on and off the field.”

CONCACAF’s next major tournament is the Gold Cup which takes place July 7-28 in 13 cities throughout the United States.