Hon. Elvis "Juggie " Harrigan, 5th District Representative, delivered an inspirational spell of bowling and message to the boys at the WICB/Digicel Grassroots Cricket Launch (photo courtesy of Sachkia Barnes, Secretary, BVICA)

His first delivery pitched on a length and was well defended by one of the programme’s most promising youngsters, Ian Sampson, 15, but the second landed perfectly on middle and leg, spun and found the edge of Mr. Sampson’s bat and was neatly caught by Brandon Kartik, fielding at slip.

More importantly though, was the message he delivered to the assembled 20 plus Boys, members of the British Virgin Islands Cricket Association (BVICA) and other guests.

“Cricket and Sport in general can open many doors for you,” Hon. Harrigan stated.” If you are disciplined, listen and be willing to learn then I’m sure you will all benefit greatly from this programme. I have been impressed by what I’ve seen so far and will definitely be talking to the Premier, the Hon. Ralph T O’Neal, when I see him next week.”

Aiden George, 7, shows a solid technique. (Photo courtsey of Sachkia Barnes)

He added, “I will also do whatever I can to support initiatives such as these and enjoyed playing cricket myself.”

The 5^th District Representative then implored the boys to pay close attention to the Coaches and be willing to work hard to improve.

Also present at the launch were Ray McMahon, Sales Manager- Digicel; Andreas Quow (BVICA Board Member), Sachkia Barnes ( BVICA Secretary), Faustina Brown (BVICA Asst Sec.), Charlie Jackson (Coach) and Spencer Hanley (Coach).

Following a brief overview of the programme by Charlie Jackson to the assembled guests and players, Ray Mc Mahon speaking on behalf of Digicel, sponsor of the programme regionally said, “Digicel is committed to supporting sports for youths in the community and is pleased to be a part of this programme in the VI. This programme is a long term succession plan for the future of West Indies Cricket and Digicel is delighted to give youths an opportunity to become world class players and to better prepare them for a successful future in cricket.”

Summing up on behalf of the BVICA Board Member Mr. Quow said he was looking forward to getting more involved

“It’s a great programme and will definitely be a help in getting our cricket to a higher level in the VI. I will be coming out every Saturday to help out,” he remarked.

“The Launch of this initiative in the VI is a timely one and comes at a point When we are working hard on opening additional doors for our Student Athletes in The Sporting Discipline of Cricket with a greater Focus at Community Level. This Bunch of Young Enthusiastic players were put through some Intense and Exciting Training with Coach Charlie Jackson and Spencer Hanley. Their Intensity in The Training Session tells a Story by itself that they are really taking the Training very seriously. From My vantage point, I can see Future Local, Regional and International Players coming out from that Group. I think that it’s a very good start in advancing Cricket in The BVI and Throughout the West Indies” Quow concluded.

More than 20 boys attend the WICB / Digicel Grassroots Programme held every Saturday on the Grounds of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (Photo courtesy of Sachkia Barnes)

The WICB / Digicel Grassroots Programme is held every Saturday on the Grounds of the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. It is open to all boys and girls aged 11-17 regardless of ability or experience. It is run by WICB Certified Coaches, fully supported by the BVICA  and the WICB provides the necessary gear and training equipment.

The programme acts a follow on to the Kiddy’s Cricket Programme, which is aimed at 7-11 year olds. Here in the BVI it is the final piece in the jigsaw as cricket looks to re-establish its prominence in the heart and minds of the youths.