The NCBA Inter-primary Football Tournament came to a thrilling close at the AFA Stadium on Saturday, October 26th, 2024, wrapping up three weeks of spirited competition. With the final match between Orealia Kelly Primary School (OKPS) and Valley Primary School (VPS) for the boys, and OKPS versus Alwyn Allison Richardson Primary School (AARPS) for the girls, the event showcased Anguilla’s young athletic talents and the powerful spirit of sportsmanship.
The ceremony, chaired by Mr. Shamar Gaskin, Digital Marketing Officer at NCBA, saw an impressive gathering of spectators and supporters, including the Honourable Minister of Social Development and Education, Ms. Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers, and the Honourable Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Merrick Richardson. Also in attendance were the President of the Anguilla Football Association, Mr. Girdon Connor, the association’s executive body, and Mrs. Susan Smith, Acting Chief Education Officer, who extended apologies on behalf of NCBA’s CEO, who was away on official business.
Mr. Colin Johnson, Technical Director of the Anguilla Football Association, delivered a stirring overview of the tournament, which ran from October 6th to 26th and saw all seven primary schools competing, with each school making it through to the semi-finals—a first in the tournament’s history. Praising the participants, Mr. Johnson remarked, “It was a great tournament, filled with record-breaking goals by the boys and an historic final appearance by Alwyn Allison Primary School’s girls’ team. This event wouldn’t have been possible without our dedicated players, coaches, supportive fans, and the hard work of medical and security teams.”
Representing NCBA’s management team, Mr. Romero Kelsick, Manager of Cards and Support Services, delivered heartfelt congratulatory remarks. “Your enthusiasm, skill, and sportsmanship have been truly inspiring,” he said, addressing the young athletes. “Each one of you has shown the true spirit of the game, not just in competition, but in camaraderie and respect for one another.” Mr. Kelsick went on to thank the coaches, volunteers, and supporters whose encouragement created a vibrant atmosphere throughout the tournament. He encouraged the young players to carry forward the lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and respect both on and off the field.
The awards honoured individual excellence and team achievements and were presented by Mr. Jermaine Hughes, competition manager at the Anguilla Football Association, Mr. Shamar Gaskin, Mrs. Susan Smith, Mr. Girdon Connor, Ms. Rodi Richardson, program officer at the department of sports, Ms. Shamika Rogers, foreign exchange officer at NCBA, and Ms. Maricia Blyden.
Female and male players alike received accolades, with OKPS’ Delicia Garraway and Darique Sponsper being named the Overall MVPs for girls and boys, respectively.
For the female teams, OKPS claimed 1st place, with AARPS coming in 2nd place and Omolulu finishing off in 3rd place. They were followed by ATHPS, VPS, MVPS and VVPS in 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th place respectively.
In the boys’ category, OKPS clinched 1st place again, with VPS securing 2nd and VVPS rounding out the top 3 in 3rd place. MVPS, ATHPS, Omolulu and AARPS took the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th places respectively.
Further awards were presented to teams demonstrating exemplary spirit and discipline. Best Team Spirit was won by Omolulu International School, Most Organised School was won by AARPS and MVPS claimed the title of Most Disciplined School.
In closing remarks, thanks were extended to NCBA, the Anguilla Football Association, the Department of Education and Department of Sports, whose support was instrumental in the success of this year’s tournament.
This year’s NCBA Inter-primary Football Tournament not only strengthened the players’ athletic skills but reinforced values of unity, dedication, and community pride—qualities which will undoubtedly benefit them in all future endeavours.
