By:Curtis Morton
Tyrique Smith was the first winner of the Scotia bank Kiddies cricket grant. This was revealed by Leeward Islands Territorial Development officer, Mr. Junie Mitchum at the launch of the 2016 edition of the Scotia bank kiddies Cricket launch which was held at the ET Willet Park on Friday 22nd January.
He stated that due to the fact that last year, the institution celebrated its 15th anniversary of sponsoring the program, a special grant initiative was put in place for the most outstanding cricketer in the program but who additionally had the most outstanding academic grades at school.
Young Smith proudly received his award of US $250.00 from the bank’s representative Mr. Caldo Warner. His proud parents were also on hand to witness the ceremony. He was voted the most disciplined player in the program last year and achieved an academic average of 89.00.
Mitchum also pointed to the success of the program in producing young cricketers from Nevis and also noted that over 20 teachers and coaches had successfully completed the WICB and INICEF coaching programs last year.
Mitchum also presented a message on behalf of newly appointed CEO, Mr. Richard Berridge who wished the participants all the best and challenged them to make the best of such opportunities and make it to the top level of the game.
Mr. Denrick Liburd, President of the Nevis Cricket Association and WICB representative for the Leewards, urged the participants to train hard; have discipline and be ‘mannersable.’
He told them that there is a lot of money in cricket but the focus must not be only on the money but they must also learn their lesions and develop a business head as well.
The Primary schools on Nevis were then presented with cricket kits which will enhance the development of the game at the primary level.
Mitchum also informed that 30 of the young cricketers will be selected to be part of an onfield demonstration during a tri series in St.Kitts, during the month of June.