AS part of its affiliate development programme, the Castries Football Council (CFC) on Thursday presented six of its up-to-date financial affiliates with football gear and equipment and certificates to members who recently completed first aid training.
The presentation took place during a short ceremony held at the conference room of the Ministry of Youth and Sports in Blue Coral Mall.
The targeted affiliates all currently operate active youth programmes as the CFC continues its emphasis on youth development. Chairman of the CFC, Valdez James, reiterated the Council’s position that a focus on youth development through the academy model provides affiliates with a greater chance for longevity and sustainability.
He advised his affiliates to use the equipment to build on their programmes because the expectation was that these young players will eventually represent Central Castries at the national level.
Also speaking at the ceremony was Ligorious Marquis, Youth and Sports Officer for Central Castries. Marquis commended the CFC on its sustained efforts in youth development and encouraged the affiliates to ensure that the equipment and gear are used in organized and focused programmes.
The cost of the gear and equipment is approximately EC$7,000 and this is the third such disbursement of gear and equipment by the CFC to its affiliates with youth programmes within the last four years.
The First Aid course was facilitated by the Saint John’s Ambulance and eight individuals from among the CFC affiliates participated and are expected to act as first responders for their clubs during club and CFC events.
Meanwhile, CFC also announced the start of its 8th annual ECFH/LUCELEC Youth Tournament. The later-than-usual start of the tournament was a strategic decision so as to accommodate the many players who travel during the summer period.
This year’s tournament will include five age groups: Pee Wee or Under-10, Under-12, 14, 16 and 21. This is the first time players aged Under-10 will be participating in the tournament and the teams in this age group will play exhibition matches with no scores or results being recorded. All other age group events will be competitive.
The participating teams are Flow Lancers FC, FC Pioneers, Massy Stores Boboville, NYAH FC, Sunrisers FC, Valley Soccer Academy, VSADC and Big Players, a specially-invited team that will participate in the Under-10.
The 2016 ECFH/LUCELEC Youth Tournament kicks off today at the SAB Playing Facility from 9:00 a.m. with an opening ceremony and march pass of teams. All matches will be played at the SAB Playing Facility on Saturdays and Sundays.
