The Antigua and Barbuda Athletics Association (ABAA), on Sunday, held it’s first in a series of planned Grassroot Development and Talent Identification Program.
“The initiative, held at the Golden Grove playing field, aims to identify, recruit, harness and nurture talents from the primary and private schools and from within various communities,” the association said in a social media post.
“Today [Sunday] we rolled out our first Talent Identification Program at the Golden Grove Playing Field. Participating schools were, Five Islands, Green Bay, Golden Grove, Jennings Primary, SR Olivia David, Urlings and Old Road Primary. Also participating were young athletes from a number of track and field clubs, namely, Roots Athletics Club, Supernova, Phoenix, and Wings Athletics Club.”
During the event, a total of 120 young athletes were tested in speed, endurance, and standing long jump. These tests gave coaches a fair idea as to what events would be most suitable for an individual athlete.
The association has pledged to continue the program across the island and also in Barbuda on a monthly basis.
“Up next, we will be at Mack Pond playing field on December 8th, 2024 followed by Willikies, Old Road, Barbuda, Cedar Grove where dates would be announced shortly.”
“The ABAA would like to thank all the schools and their principals for coming onboard to support this initiative and look forward to your continued cooperation. ABAA would also like to recognize the coordinating team responsible for spearheading this initiative. Headed by 2nd VP Shawnor Charles Joseph. Chief Coordinator Oswald Baptist, assistants Jamille Nelson, Daniel Bailey and Shaunte Hughes,” it said.
“Special thanks also to the coaches Ted Daley, Chevaughn Walsh, kesswin Anthony, Coul Graham, Celicia Maloney, Duncan Corbin, Winston Benjamin of Grassroot Cricket Academy, Principal of Old Road Primary Mrs Joseph and President of the association Everton Cornelius and all volunteers and PE teachers who gave their time to come out make this event possible.”
