Following a public request for assistance, Demerara Mutual has come forward to assist national U20 footballers Kegan Caull and Daneo Caroo to continue their football development in Europe with a cash contribution of six thousand dollars. Kegan and Daneo left Saint Lucia on Sunday 9th January to firstly attend a one-week trial with Europa Point FC of Gibraltar where they had their first experience of playing football in Europe. Following a successful stint in Gibraltar the aspiring footballers will now spend three months in Spain with CD International Logrono where they will train in a professional programme which focuses on providing young players with the opportunity to showcase themselves to clubs in Spain and Europe.
Their respective clubs: VSADC and FLOW Lancers FC recently made a public appeal for assistance to help fund the boarding and lodging for the players for the Spain leg of their trail. It is estimated that this three-month period will cost seven thousand Euros. The boys will reside in a university complex where they will have easy access to the training ground which features eight playing fields and fitness facilities and the option to continue to undergo self-paced academic courses. The boys will play two trial matches weekly; these trial matches provide opportunities to showcase their talents to scouts and opposing coaches.
Speaking at a short cheque presentation ceremony recently, Sales Manager of Demerara Mutual Mrs. Sabina Charles-Kirton said that it was an easy decision for Demerara Mutual to assist the national youth players when the request came to her desk.
“Demerara Mutual Life Insurance Company believes that young persons are the backbone of the nation and as an insurance company we always feel the need to assist when we can support those with talent and potential,” Charles-Kirton said.
She also indicated that Demerara Mutual has a very strong corporate social responsibility agenda and helping two of Saint Lucia’s most promising athletes is perfectly aligned to these goals. Mrs. Charles – Kirton, an ex-national female footballer and FIFA match official encouraged the young footballers to strive for daily improvement and also encouraged them to work towards blazing a trial for all youth footballers who are following their progress closely.
Desire Tyson, mother of Kegan Caull who is the two-time Junior Footballer of the Year was full of gratitude for Demerara Mutual for their support towards helping her son fulfil his dream. Miss Tyson stated that it is the lifelong goal of her son to play professional football and said that he is extremely fortunate that Demerara Mutual has decided to make this investment in him.
All indications are that the young players have settled well in Spain despite the major change in climate and they are determined to impress the club coaches and scouts. Contributions are still being solicited so that the Kegan and Daneo can continue their development and persons wishing to do so can contact VSADC or FLOW Lancers FC at [email protected] or [email protected]