[dropcap]T[/dropcap]hrough the Digicel and the Daren Sammy Foundation, 25 aspiring cricketers between the ages of 12 and 15 years, attended the Digicel Daren Sammy Cricket Academy and trained with the star cricketer alongside Phil Simmons, former West Indies Cricket Coach.
From April 05 – 08, Daren and Phil along with John Eugene, Junior Derose and Cuthbert ‘Trois ti Nay’ Modest, tutored the young cricketers on techniques of the game, while Mike Snader, Dr. Kenneth Louisy and Christelle Lee enlightened the youngsters on: sports nutrition, sports injuries and sports psychology, respectively.
The players also got a chance to show off all they learnt on the final day of the programme, with a head to head encounter in what made for an exciting wrap up match.
Daren Sammy, Digicel St. Lucia’s Brand Ambassador said of the Academy; “We are not lacking, and it’s even more reason to commend John and Junior on the work they have done over the years with our Under 15 programme. What Phil and I saw over the last four days, although ideally I’d have wanted two weeks, was quite amazing. As a result, we are delighted that we can contribute to the overall success of the programme, providing St. Lucia’s aspiring young players with opportunities to improve their game”.
Siobhan James-Alexander, Digicel CEO said about the programme, “St. Lucia has always had raw talent, we’ve always had academies but we wanted something with a difference as we continue to find avenues to add greater value in the experience for the beneficiaries of our sponsorships. So we included in this one: nutrition, sports wellness and a segment on dealing with sports injuries. It has been our pleasure to connect these budding cricketers to the game they love in such a meaningful way. This is an inaugural event and that being said there are aspects to improve upon next year as we look towards another installment of the Digicel Daren Sammy Cricket Academy”.
The Academy provided an avenue for young cricketers to improve and hone their cricketing skills while building character – both on and off the field. The programme was a huge success and has generated support from cricket fans across St. Lucia and beyond.
