A shocked expression lit up 16-year-old Malachai Kesar’s face when he was named the Most Dedicated, Helpful Team Oriented Person, at the closing ceremony of the Republic Bank RightStart Cup Youth Football Camp on Friday.
Kesar, the Point Fortin-born, was among the 74 participants, ranging from ages 13 to 16 years old, who faithfully journeyed to the Bank’s Staff Sports Club in Barataria during the five-day camp to learn the art, skill and techniques of the sport, under the watchful eyes of SKHY Football Club’s director Colin Skeen and several other coaches.
He was also awarded the prize for the Most Hard Working and Enthusiastic, in the 15 years and over category. The Bank’s General Manager, Risk Management, Roopnarine Oumade-Singh in his addressed to the participants, urged them to continue to excel in the game and take all that they have learnt to their peers, communities and schools.
“We know that what you have learnt, it will not only assist in your overall development, but it will also equip you both mentally and physically, as you go back into your communities, schools and among your peers,” he said. The week-long camp, which was hosted by the Bank in conjunction with the SHKY Football Club, catered to the needs of the nation’s young football enthusiasts, in an attempt to help empower them through sport.
Kesar, who delivered the valedictorian’s remarks, on behalf of his peers, thanked the Bank for the opportunity presented to them, to learn and enhance a sport that they love. Brian Lewis, Honorary Secretary of the T&T Olympic Committee, complimented on the work that the bank has been doing in the development of youth programmes in T&T, while urging the young participants to take full advantage of the opportunities given to them.
“I want to acknowledge, thank and extend a heartfelt congratulations to Republic Bank and by extension all those who have contributed to the success of this camp over the years, it is a true testament, that you are interested in the well being of the nation’s young people,” he said.
Earlier in the programme there was a parenting session, facilitated by Nicole Alexander, Registered Dietitian, who shared with the parents, lecturers on proper diet and nutrition practice for their children. A representative from the Rebirth House, also shared his experiences as a former drug user, on the ills of drug abuse.
There were also special prizes presented to participants who excelled in their various age categories. Republic Bank congratulates all the participants who successfully graduated from the camp and wish them all the best in their future sporting endeavours.