The next generation of Saint Lucian cricketers is set for much-needed development through the upcoming Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA)/Laborie Credit Union Under-13 Grassroots Tournament. This first-of-its-kind initiative will feature young athletes — both boys and girls — participating in softball cricket action on weekends at venues across the country.
A total of 16 districts on the island are on board for this project, with senior team support from each district filtering down to the younger players. Second vice president of the SLNCA and head of youth cricket Nerville Florence indicated this tournament and grassroots development remain the single most important priority of the governing body for Saint Lucian cricket.
“This grassroots programme is actually the baby of the SLNCA,” he told a gathering of players, parents, and executives at the official launch ceremony on October 14. “Upon taking office, this executive maintained, we spoke, we spent nights, days, weeks discussing, and planning for grassroots cricket. We had every other aspect of cricket on our agenda, but grassroots cricket was always the first on our agenda, and it took priority,” he added.
These words were supported by SLNCA President Wayne Auguste. The tournament was the brainchild of Auguste, who noted that grassroots development has played a critical role in his own life and in the life of his son, Ackeem Auguste, who was recently selected to play for the West Indies at the senior level. He is adamant that a strong grassroots system is essential for a thriving cricket culture.
“It is extremely important that we engage [young people], and this is something that I couldn’t sleep at night about because I couldn’t deal with myself, knowing that we didn’t have a grassroots program running for the National Cricket Association,” he said. “Because I know the value and the importance of engaging our youngsters now.”
The title sponsor for the tournament, Laborie Cooperative Credit Union, was represented at the launch ceremony by its president, Augustin Dominique. Dominique reiterated his organisation’s continued commitment to the development of the game and noted that this initiative will play an important role in bringing communities together.
“One of the reasons why very early I was one of those who said, yes, we should be investing in a cricket development program like this, is because it will bring communities together,” he added.
The tournament will bowl off on October 18. Communities are invited to come out and support the next generation of local sports superstars.
