Shell Trinidad Ltd handed out $170,000 to 12 local clubs as part of its fifth annual Cricket Grants Programme during a ceremony at Jaffer Restaurant at the Queen's Park Oval, St Clair yesterday. The project, originally developed by Allsport Promotions and the T&T Cricket Board, is aimed at supporting clubs with their community initiatives involving education, youth development, agriculture and support to senior citizens.
The recipients included the North Zone Cricket Coaches Association, Fulham Sports Club, Rousillac United ($5,000), Sancho/St Julien Sports Club, Queen's Park Cricket Club, CLICO Preysal Sports Club, Canaan and Bon Accord United ($10,000), Powergen, Mixtures Sports Club, First Citizens Clarke Road, Caldrac Sports Club and Bank Village ($20,000). Shell has a long history of involvement in the sport, having sponsored the regional competition from 1966-1987, during which time West Indies rose to global cricket supremacy.
In his feature address, the company's country chairman Gerard Mitchell said by lending assistance to the various clubs, Shell was investing in T&T's future. "There are many activities currently available to our young people which can be negative and long lasting and will translate into negative effects on our entire society. Sport can provide a positive avenue for youngsters to release their energy in an atmosphere that promotes confidence, team work and a sense of belonging."
He pointed out that the initiative was aimed at creating model citizens, rather than just good cricketers.
"This programme is not about only about trying to help T&T to be able to select from a larger pool of youngsters to play for our cricket teams. It is also, and maybe more importantly, about fostering the sort of community spirit that may be diminishing in some of our villages and communities." The event was attended by First Vice President of the T&T Cricket Board Dudnath Ramkessoon, Queen's Park Cricket Club president Bruce Anansen and former West Indies cricketers Bryan Davis and Rangy Nanan among others.