Eddy Richards-Caines Summer Football Program Holds Awards Ceremony

The Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park bore witness to a momentous occasion on the evening of Sunday, July 13th, as the Emmanuel Richards Summer Football program celebrated two decades of nurturing young footballing talent within the Nevisian community. The program, renowned for its commitment to fostering both athletic prowess and personal development, marked this milestone with an awards ceremony that paid tribute to its founder, coaches, sponsors, and volunteers who have contributed to its enduring success. The evening commenced with an invocation by Pastor Gene Amory, setting a reverent tone for the celebrations that were to follow. Rohan Isles, a dedicated member of the program’s team, skillfully guided the proceedings as Master of Ceremonies.

Aljay Newton, Director of Sports and a proud alumnus of the football camp, delivered a heartfelt commendation of Emmanuel Richards’ unwavering dedication and leadership over the past twenty years. Newton’s personal connection to the program underscored its impact not only on individual skill development but also on shaping future leaders within the sporting community. Richards himself, reflecting on the program’s humble beginnings, recounted its inception with a mere handful of aspiring footballers. He acknowledged the pivotal role of his first sponsor, Andy Liburd of Nevis Multi Line Services, and the foundational coaching provided by Evered “Webbo” Herbert, both of whom laid the groundwork for the program’s subsequent growth and prosperity.

From its modest origins, the Emmanuel Richards Summer Football program has blossomed into a cornerstone of the Nevisian sporting landscape, consistently attracting over seventy participants each year. This remarkable expansion has been made possible through the generous support of a diverse and ever-growing roster of sponsors, whose contributions have enabled the program to provide quality coaching, equipment, and opportunities for young footballers to hone their skills. The ceremony served as a platform to express heartfelt gratitude to these sponsors, as well as the dedicated volunteers who have tirelessly devoted their time and energy to the program’s success.

In recognition of their invaluable support, Emmanuel Richards and Zahnela Claxton, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Sports, presented certificates of appreciation to the sponsors and long-serving volunteers. This gesture served as a tangible expression of the program’s deep gratitude for their unwavering commitment to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the beautiful game. The presentation of these certificates symbolized the collaborative spirit that has fueled the program’s growth and ensured its continued impact within the community.

The evening’s proceedings culminated in a vote of thanks eloquently delivered by Shenelka Clarke-Nisbett, another valued member of the program’s team. Clarke-Nisbett’s words captured the spirit of gratitude and celebration that permeated the event, acknowledging the collective efforts of everyone involved in making the program a resounding success. Her heartfelt expression of thanks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the sense of community and shared purpose that has been integral to the program’s enduring legacy.

Following the formal proceedings, attendees were invited to a cocktail reception, providing an opportunity to mingle, reminisce, and further celebrate the program’s achievements. The relaxed atmosphere of the reception allowed for informal conversations and fostered a sense of camaraderie amongst the coaches, players, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who have all played a vital role in shaping the program’s journey over the past two decades. The evening concluded on a high note, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of pride and anticipation for the program’s continued success in the years to come.