Basseterre, St. Kitts - The St Kitts Nevis Football Association began the FIFA Grassroots Seminar and Football Festival at the St Kitts Marriott Beach Resort on 2 November 2010. The Seminar began with an opening ceremony which was attended by the Hon Glen Phillip Minister of Sport, Anthony Johnson SKNFA President, FIFA instructor Alvin Corneal, Chris Collie, Michael Boys, invited guests and participants from the various communities.
The Ceremony began with speeches by the President of the Association who spoke on the importance of the Grassroots Seminar. He stated that “there is a need to promote positive activities for the youth in the Federation and that the SKNFA is proud to have this seminar which is intended to capture the youth at an early age and to curtail the negative influences in society.”
The Hon Glen Phillip Minister of Sports spoke and stated, “I am pleased that the SKNFA had taken such an initiative especially in a time when youths are involved in gangs, drugs and crime.” The minister explained “my ministry welcomes such a programme and we will support this imitative.”
The Seminar kicked off officially with and introduction presentation about FIFA and their programmes. The presentation focused on the grassroot programme and where it began and the future of the programme.
Presentations were also done by the President of the National Olympic Committee Alphonso Bridgewater, Director of Sports Mr. Dave Connor. SKNFA Technical Director Lenny Lake spoke on the Grassroots programmes in St Kitts and the future of the programme.
The FIFA Instructor Mr. Alvin Corneal spoke about what is to be expected from the Grassroots programme and FIFA dedication in ensuring that the programme reaches all communities around the world. Mr. Corneal also spoke about the value of the grassroot programme and its proven affects on the society.
Mr. Corneal also stated “I am impressed with the organization of the seminar and the involvement and enthusiasm of the participants. I am also encouraged by the commitment from the stakeholders such as the government the National Olympic Committee.”
The first day of the Seminar concluded with a group discussion where participants were asked to give ideas on how to promote the grassroots programme in St Kitts and Nevis. The Seminar continues during the week focusing on Communications and Marketing of the Grassroots Programme. The Seminar will conclude with a football festival on Saturday 6th November at Warner Park with the children of the current grassroot programme in St Kitts.
AFFILIATES: LIFA, CFU, CONCACAF, FIFA
