On Saturday, about 30 boys and girls from several high schools around the Virgin Islands showcased their skills in hopes of being selected to compete in Trinidad.
The skills competition was hosted by Flow and Manchester United Football Club in England. The event gave coaches an opportunity to scout youth athletes as they performed various drills that were timed and recorded.
“This particular initiative is geared at kids who are very passionate about football,” said Head of Commercial for Flow Ravindra Maywahlall. “It’s giving them an opportunity to be trained properly and be coached by professional coaches.”
Speed and timing was a key factor in choosing the two winners. Sheldon Harry and Marcus Lake were the top performers among the 30 participants.
“It feels exciting,” said Mr. Harry, who attends Elmore Stoutt High School. “I didn’t know I could’ve made it and thought it would be someone else, but I believe I put my all into it and think I did well.”
BVI Football Association President Andy Bickerton attended the event.
“The boys and girls have done really well this morning,” he said. “There are different levels of ability, but it’s good that everybody can participate. It’s a good showcase for our coaches for what they’ve been doing and it’s just an exciting project for young footballers.”
Each student received a certificate for his or her participation in the competition.
On May 6-7, Messrs. Harry and Lake will travel to Trinidad to compete with other footballers from around the region. The top athletes from that event will be competing for a trip to England to watch a Premier League match with the Manchester United Football Club.
“It’s always been my favourite sport,” said Mr. Lake. “It’s a pretty big deal.”
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