Naps begin title defence against San Juan

SportMax’s production will kick off at Irwin Park in Siparia with San Juan North facing 2015 Premiership winners Naparima at 4 pm and Shiva Boys playing Presentation College San Fernando at 6.15 pm in a double-header when the season begins tomorrow.

The 2016 season broadcast is largely a result of the US$1.5 million, five-year partnership signed with Digicel Play, SportsMax and the SSFL in November 2015 and runs through to December 2019.

President of the SSFL Anthony Creed said with the league being showed on television it gives the players an opportunity to be seen. Creed said, “the SSFL has moved to another level and as a consequence all that is left is for the work produced by our coaches through our players to be one of the highest quality. This (live matches) will further encourage more scouts to come to TT after seeing the potential of our players on screen.” Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Darryl Smith, who played in the SSFL, reminisced on his playing days. “I am one of the few people to represent St Mary’s and Fatima and St Mary’s College again. In my final year in 1991 I had the privilege of winning a national championship which changed my life forever.” Minister Smith said he was also given an opportunity to be seen when former local televsion channel Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT) would highlight players in the SSFL. He explained that TTT showcased the talent of some players including himself which allowed him to be seen by coaches in USA which allowed him to play at an American University.

Olly McIntosh, CEO, Sports- Max said, “we invest heavily in youth sports and for us and our team this marks a significant milestone for SportsMax and Digicel Play.” McIntosh said the TT public will benefit saying that it is not necessary to bring talent from overseas. “In years past many of us involved in the media industry really had a burning sensation inside when we saw West Indies cricket play here or the international football matches played and we would have to fly in production units and fly in overseas talent when we know we have the talent resident here.” He said for the 2012 London Olympics SportsMax utilised 150 local and regional people to prduce the Olympics. He further explained that 90 percent of the individuals involved in the production of the SSFL will be from TT with the anchor team including former Sports Minister and national footballer Brent Sancho and veteran commentator Colin Murray.

Gillian Benjamin, marketing manager of First Citizens said the company is happy to be involved.

She said, “we are proud to share the status of title sponsor of the Secondary Schools Football League with Shell for yet another year. This prestiguous league offers top young footballers a platform to learn, develop and display their talents both on and off the field. These athletes are given the chance to showcase their skills, learn valuable hard work, team work and learn to overcome obstacles in achieving their goals.”