THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) officially launched the National Secondary Schools League yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club pavilion with a simple ceremony attended by representatives of the sponsors and partners that aid in the tournament.The head table included the Minister of Education Dr Rupert Roopnarine, GCB president Drubahadur and secretary Anand Senasie, Digicel’s Sponsorship and Events executive Luanna Abrams, NSC Admin Officer Gervy Harry, Banks DIH’s Nimbus Brand manager Errol Nelson and Child Protection Officer Orette Francois.
Dr Roopnarine opened his brief remarks by thanking the sponsors for their input to make the nationwide tournament a reality. The minister admitted that financial constraint was the reason such a task could not be fulfilled.
However, Dr Roopnarine believes the integration of this tournament into the school curriculum along with music can produce more rounded individuals.
Digicel’s Luanna Abrams said her company is very pleased to be a part of this cricket tournament since they fully support youth development. As testimony to this, Digicel recently wrapped up their Nationwide Schools Football Tournament.
She then thanked co-sponsor Banks DIH for taking on this venture and further pledged Digicel’s support by welcoming assistance of any form to ensure the tournament continues. Banks DIH will be providing support through their Nimbus Water and Coca Cola brands.
Chronicle Sport understands that the organisers are aiming to have participation from over 150 school teams. Clubs and school teams will be competing with two formats laid out for the tournament.
However, the School team that ends up as the National School Champions will be awarded an all-expenses paid trip to the annual Sir Garfield Sobers Tournament in Barbados.