Several members of School of the Nations’ cricket team on Friday paid a courtesy call on Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton.
The team recently competed in the Sir Garfield Sobers International Schools Cricket Tournament in Barbados, securing 15th position among the 22 teams that participated in the tournament.
Speaking with Minister Norton, the players all agreed that while they did not win, the experiences gained from playing in Barbados were extremely informative, and will help them to become better cricketers.
The team members expressed gratitude to Minister Norton for his support and the continuous encouragement he extended prior to them leaving for the games.
“We are grateful to you, Minister Norton and the Ministry for always being there to assist our young athletes,” the team’s coach, Darien Best, said.
Having listened to each of the young cricketers talk about their experiences and how different the cricketing landscape is in Barbados, Minister Norton asked for their view of what areas need to be addressed here in Guyana.
The young players highlighted that limited sponsorship of local cricket is a major concern.
“The cricketers in Barbados play a lot more games than we do. Our cricketers do not benefit from that steady exposure to good competitions. We also recognise the need for more emphasis to be placed on sports in the school system,” Coach Best said.
Minister Norton told the team that he has been working aggressively to ensure that cricket in Guyana is regularised during his tenure as the Minister responsible for Sport.
Dr. Norton encouraged the team to continue playing good cricket despite the challenges that exist. He reminded the players that they are young men with bright futures, and should always strive to maintain a respectable reputation.
“Whether you realise it or not, our younger children will be looking up to you, and you have to ensure that you carry yourselves in a manner that will make your parents, well-wishers, teachers, me, and the entire country proud,” Minister Norton advised.
“Listening to your experiences makes me wish that the Ministry could’ve provided more support, but I believe that the expenses that parents and other contributors incurred were well worth it,” Dr. Norton added.
The team also presented Minister Norton with a detailed report of their trip, including an overview of the matches that were played.
