A new football collaboration could grow into something special. That is the impression of visiting British football coach Milford Parker who is on island to deliver knowledge as well as some football equipment.
During a previous visit to the island, Parker, of PYA Elite Academy in the UK, engaged young footballers and promised to return to assist with technical support and much-needed football gear. Parker explained, “we put together a recent boot drive initiative just to help the young footballers in Saint Lucia. With my love and passion for football I realized that there was a need for the right equipment in terms of football boots, cones, etc. for the boys to be able to get their lot and help their development. We have a great network and we’re hoping to use that to help the young up and coming footballers in Saint Lucia.” Parker says the initiatives aims exceed football. “It teaches young people a lot of things – keeps them out of trouble, keeps them in a positive mindset, teaches teamwork, they make friends and I hope it continues for many years to come.”
The initiative was hinged on a relationship with Trevor Daniel Football Development Program based in Castries and facilitated through the St. Lucia High Commission in the UK. Mr. Daniel explained the thinking behind the project. “What we try to do is give them the opportunity to get better training capacity, to get the opportunity to go outside of Saint Lucia whether it’s for scholarship, for short contract, whatever it is to have a better life.”
Julian Dubois is the Ambassador for Diaspora Affairs. He also believes the initiative is a special collaboration that can grow into a major affair. He is adamant that there are many who can support efforts like these. “We continue to engage the diaspora with the hope that they will contribute to these extremely important causes.”