IN a continued effort to engage with youth and support positive community development, senior police officials from Regional Division #6 visited the Rose Hall Community Centre on Thursday morning, where the first session of a Youth Cricket Academy is currently underway.

The event, which occurred between 10:20hrs and 11:20 hrs, listed among its guests Commander of Regional Division #6, Deputy Superintendent M. Newland; Woman Assistant Superintendent C. Kelly; and Sergeant Benjamin. The academy caters to young cricketers in two age groups: 7–11 years and 14–19 years.

Head Coach Ameer Rahaman welcomed the visiting delegation, and facilitated an interactive session between the officers and the young male and female cricketers in training.

Topics discussed included the importance of discipline and training in avoiding drug use, encouraging young athletes to strive to reach their full potential, time management and punctuality for training sessions, respect for elders and positive behaviour in the community, and steering clear of peers involved in alcohol and drug use.

The officers emphasised the value of self-discipline, community respect, and healthy lifestyle choices, tying them into the discipline required in cricket and life.

In a show of support, Deputy Superintendent Newland presented a donation to the Welfare Community Centre Club on behalf of Regional Commander No. 6, Assistant Commissioner of Police Shivpersaud Bacchus and his administrative team. The donation included two boxes of red-and-white cricket balls and two forearm guards.

A total of 45 teenage cricketers were in attendance during the visit. Police officials reported no unusual incidents, noting that the district remains quiet and peaceful.

The visit was hailed as a positive and meaningful interaction with youth, reinforcing the importance of sports in community building and crime prevention.