The Third Annual Anguilla Youths Sports Foundation held this week at Viceroy Residences had a specific theme to positively motivate the 150 plus youths in sports development rather than engage in negative behavior.
Mr Gary Payton, NBA Hall of Famer who has been coaching the programme for three years said, “This year we are going to basically try to make these kids understand what we want to accomplish. We chose a motto because we understand youths are using guns now to do a lot of things…..we are trying to get kids to put energy on something else…show them this is the better way, that it’s important to go to school and get involved in sports.”
Matt Barnes who is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Clippers for the NBA was listed as the guest speaker for the camp.
He is accompanied by his wife Gloria Govan from Basketball Housewives.
Organizer Mr Eddie Kelly who is an Anguillian but lives in the US said the camp is an exciting time for the children to positively engage the youths.
And Parliamentary Secretary responsible for Sports Mr Haydn Hughes says the Basketball camp is a great initiative for the youths.
He said the 150 children lives will be changed through the camp.
The Parliamentary Secretary said he will also speak with Mr Kelly on plans to create a facility for the youths to play basketball.
He expressed thanks to Mr Kelly and his wife for their commitment in helping the youths of Anguilla.
The Anguilla Youths Sports Foundation also presented plaques to Mr Emmanuel Webster who has contributed to coaching a number of basketball players in Anguilla.
General Manager of Viceroy Richard Alexander also received a plaque for their hospitality and commitment to the camp. And Ms Danielle Frost and Ms Jovan Browne who work intimately with Mr Kelly in organizing the event were also recognized for their hard work.
