Hope International holds grassroots football clinics

Two free grassroots football clinics, held August 13 and 27 at the Diamonds Village Playing Field, is one way of Hope International FC fulfilling its social responsibility and strengthening its contribution to national development and the general advancement of the sport of football in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).{{more}}

Netting 30 participants on both occasions, the clinics catered for players of both sexes between the age of 5 and 17 years, drawn from North Union, Sans Souci, Diamonds Village and surrounding areas.

According to Cameta John, secretary of Hope International FC, “As stakeholders of the beautiful game, the club is deploying the skills and dedication of its accredited coaches and support members with the objective of imparting valuable technical skills associated with the sport on the youngsters.”

She added that it was important that social skills, such as team spirit, discipline, commitment and forging new friendships, were traits to be taught at that age.

Hope International FC, which celebrated its 21st year of existence, shows that its current roster of players is the most widespread, composed of players from various parts of St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), including Sandy Bay, Chateaubelair, Layou, Bequia, Mesopotamia and suburban areas of Sion Hill and Arnos Vale.

John said that the clinics would give young aspiring footballers an opportunity to interact with some of Hope International FC’s players, who have made their mark in local football competitions.

With plans to have other such grassroots clinics in other communities, Hope International FC’s administration expressed gratitude to the SVG Football Federation and acknowledge the generosity of Allan Smith Family Bakery, Facey Trading (SVG) Ltd, Food Centre Ltd, Frank B Armstrong (St Vincent) Ltd/Better Brands Distributors, Global Distributors (SVG) Ltd, Premium Products Ltd and St Vincent Brewery Ltd, for kick-starting the first two clinics.(RT)