When punching above our weight class

ST VINCENT ANDTHE GRENADINES for good measure and noble intent, participates in several sporting competitions regionally and on the broader international landscape.

In some instances, it’s simply because we are part of confederations and global groupings, hence the country’s presence at these events becomes obligatory.

Invariably, our status at the outings is one of mere making up the numbers.

But on the positive side, the main objective for such is gaining valuable experience that will help boost the psyche of the individuals who attend these competitions.

Relatedly, it is touted that such participation helps with building the respective disciplines locally as the training and preparations can only augur well for the athletes, and ultimately, the growth of the sport.

Incrementally, it is expected that via participation, there will be improved coaching techniques as well as transfer of knowledge and training commitment and regimen.

Critically, another of the derivatives from St Vincent and the Grenadines’ appearances on the regional and international stages, especially the latter, is the exposure the country gets as attention is paid to our location and other facts.

Likewise, over time, the country’s regular participation in external competitions has forced governments to inject funds into erecting sporting structures to suffice the needs of the sportsmen and women.

Therefore, the sporting infrastructure is enhanced and there comes that good feeling that at least we are levelling up with others across the region.

Of significance too are the opportunities offered to young, impressionable athletes to travel, see other countries, and become ambassadors. For many, making a national team means a lot to their self-worth and image, improving their lifestyles and giving insights into possible careers.

So too is the opening up of options to gain scholarships, semi, or full-scale professional contracts.

Notably also, is the visibility the country receives no matter how miniscule, it is a good sell for our Tourism, hence such publicity is worth its weight in gold.

Well-meant and with plausible reasons noted, should there be an audit taken and choices made relative to the country’s participation in events?

This, as a school of thought looms large that our participation is working counter-productively for the athletes in general who often return with little or nothing to show.

Hence, the large margins of defeat erase the thoughts of projected advancements as a consequence of the country’s involvement.

Then, there is the major argument about spending scarce financial resources on individuals and teams, knowing the returns will not be in the country’s favour.

In fact, many persons are adamant that less monies should be spent on sports and instead should be channelled in areas such as health care, education, and according to them, “more productive sectors.”

Given the pros and cons, the battle line is drawn as participation is given a monetary value, above the plusses that may accrue.

This is, in fact where we are in Sports in St Vincent and the Grenadines, as for most, only results matter.

But when one examines the value of sports to national development and social cohesion, there is that greater good which should prevail whenever the country is asked to punch above its weight.

Sports is more than just participating and winning.