SVG Rugby Union President envisages growth

After one year and five months as president of the SVG Rugby Union, Dellon Durrant envisages further growth under his stewardship.

Among the list of priority areas for Durrant, is to enhance the infrastructure and resources for rugby, inclusive of establishing dedicated rugby facilities, improving existing training grounds, and ensuring access to quality equipment and amenities.

According to Durrant, who was elected to the top position in June, 2022, he proffered, “by investing in the necessary infrastructure, this will indeed provide a conducive environment for players to train and compete”.

Relatedly, when suitable infrastructural development takes place, other facets of the union’s programme, will be enhanced.

As such, Durrant wants to build on the programmes earmarked for schools.

“Part of my continued tenure, through my executive we plan to solidify the Gen Into Rugby Programme, so that we can reach more schools, introducing rugby to more students, and inspiring a love for the sport at a young age, thereby fostering a strong foundation through this programme”.

At the other end of the spectrum, Durrant, through the blessings of his executive, will pursue fostering closer relationships with regional and international rugby bodies, by engaging in regular exchanges with neighbouring countries and global rugby federations.

“Our aim is to facilitate opportunities for international competitions, training camps, and sharing of knowledge and expertise; this type of collaboration will elevate the standard of rugby within St Vincent and the Grenadines and provide exposure for the national teams,” Durrant said.

Touching all areas of development, Durrant sees the enhancement of officials as equally important to the grander scheme of things.

“We have that commitment to the development of coaches and match officials, by organizing training programmes, seminars, and certification courses to ensure a larger pool of qualified professionals are available to support the growth of the sport,” Durrant underscored.

At age 29, Durrant is listed as the youngest to head the SVG Rugby Union, and recently earned a position on the World Rugby Council, the latter he embraced with pride.

Durrant envisions the sport becoming a catalyst for positive change within society.

Summing up the past year and five months, Durrant assessed, “We have made significant strides in the past year, but there is still much work to be done… I am excited about the future of rugby in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines”.