The BVIFA Executive led by President, Mr. Andy Bickerton and all the Youth Coaches were left in no doubt they are doing the right things after more than 140 boys and girls turned out for the Youth Festival held on Saturday and Sunday August 15 and 16, 2020 at East End / Long Look, Tortola.
The levels of interest and participation across two distinct age groups – those born between 2008 and 2011 and those born between 2003 and 2007 – also showed that the hard work done by the coaching staff to bring back the youths to a competitive environment where they showcased impressive technical ability, is paying dividends.
“It was great to see so many turn out,” commented Bickerton. “The progress being made after the lock down, the level of competition, the technical standards across both age groups are all very encouraging”
Bickerton was also pleased to see that lots of overseas based students were home taking part and was quick to congratulate all the coaches and staff involved, “Tinnie Percival, Wayne Phillips, Richie Morton, Javon Carty, “Left”, Cassandra Gregg, Jermaine Abrams, Morris Mark, Darren, Julianna, the General Secretary and her Assistant, Jahtoya Rodriquez”.
Notable performances also came on the field with Bickerton presenting awards to MVP, Luka Chalwell, Best Goalkeeper, Ollie Henderson, Best Defender, Quelani Nickie, Best Midfielder, Johari Lacey and Top Scorer, Denvin Jones.
Whilst all the youth programmes on Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke will be continuing [after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted], the BVIFA also plans to move forward with adding a Youth League to its player pathways.
“The level of interest and enthusiasm shown over the weekend means we can be even more optimistic about the success of the National Youth League which the BVIFA is launching in September,” concluded Bickerton.
