Top Sports and Education officials gather to path the way forward in School Sports

Officials from the Ministry of Sports and Education, along with principals and representatives and the Sports Coordinators from the various Secondary schools across the island gathered at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium for the Sports-Schools Collaboration Meeting.

In his first official outing in his new post as Commissioner of Sports Dr. Collin Greene welcomed everyone and shared his eagerness for a more unified approach going forward where school sports is concerned.

“Any organization has to be clear about the path to which they want to go, and it is our hope that with this meeting we can have a great collaboration going forward for the upliftment of school sports,” Dr Greene said.

It is the first time that a meeting of that manor took place.

Sports Minister Daryll Matthew who was also present at the meeting touched on the misconception many have for the true role of school sports.

In many instances, he has reiterated that it is main objective of school sports to develop athletes on a grassroot level.

Matthew mentioned that for the various schools to improve upon their sports programs, a stronger synergy is needed between the Ministry of Sports and schools.

In strengthening that synergy, the appointment of Dr. Colin Greene, former Principal of Princess Margaret School and Joel Rayne, sports media personality as Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of Sports “will help to strengthen the administration aspect of things and we work towards our goals”.

These two men will bring a wealth of knowledge and the necessary support needed to raise the standard of our student athletes.

The continued improvement of facilities, implementation of a school sports guideline, increase in scholarship opportunities, greater support from parents, principals, faculty and communities and the private sector were all mentioned as areas that must be addressed to develop sports and produce world class athletes.