Newly appointed Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, Darryl Smith, has received a number of congratulatory messages for various sporting bodies including the National Association of Athletics Administrations (NAAA) and the T&T Football Association (TTFA).In separate statements on Friday, the two bodies confirmed that they are looking forward to working with Smith to further develop their respective sport.
NAAA's release read: "The National Association of Athletics Administrations of T&T would like to congratulate, the honourable Darryl Smith on his new appointment as Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs, and is looking forward to working with him closely towards the further development of track and field in the country."
TTFA's statement expressed a similiar desire with TTFA president Raymond Tim Kee saying: "Congratulations on your new role as Sports Minister. It's reassuring to have leadership in the Department of Sport and Youth Affairs from someone who understands the grassroots and sporting issues of the country, and who has also been actively involved.
"I am confident your passion for sport, in particular football, and for T&T, will see you work tirelessly for the development of sport in our beloved country.
"Nothing fosters a sense of shared national identity better than the country taking part in global sporting competitions as has been evident at the 2006 World Cup and our appearances at other world events, cricket World Cups and Athletic meets such as the Olympic Games.
"Sport increasingly crosses cultural and political boundaries in a way that few other activities can. It's about really building a society, a nation, a country. Sport has something to offer people at all ages. We are confident that you will lead this charge.
"We at the TTFA look forward with great anticipation to getting the ball rolling with you, honourable Minister and your Ministry. Again, we take this opportunity to extend best wishes to you in your new role and look forward to working with you."