By BRENT STUBBS

Chief Sports Editor

bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

PARENTS are being urged to play a more pivotal role in the lives of their children as they participate in the 31st annual Government Secondary Schools Sports Assocation Track and Field Championships.

As much as possible, they are encouraged to be in attendance at the Thomas A. Robinson Track and Field Stadum when the event takes place from Wednesday to Friday.

Those were the sentiments expressed loud and clear during a press conference by the Ministry of Education last week to announce plans for the event.

The press conference, according to education officer Keisha Pratt-Johnson, underscores the invaluable role of athletics in shaping their student-athletes.

“Sports teach discipline, teamwork, resilience and a commitment to excellence - qualities that prepare young people for success both on and off the field,” Knowles said.

The meet follows the introduction of the historic inaugural Baton of Camaraderie Torch Run that was launched on Tuesday, March 4, by Minister Glenys Hanna-Martin.

The torch run, which was envisioned by Dawn Knowles and Keith Saunders, passed through each participating junior and senior high school carrying the “energy, aspirations and determination” of the young athletes competing in the meet.

“It is a symbol of their shared commitment to sportsmanship, excellence and national pride,” Knowles said. 

While it was built on “collaboration, perseverance and unwavering support for one another,” Knowles said the journey for the student-athletes is the role of parents and guardians.

“Their encouragement, presence and unwavering support provide the foundation upon which student-athletes thrive,” Knowles summed up.

“When parents support their children in sports, they are not just fostering athletic development, they are nurturing confidence, resilience and a strong work ethic that will benefit them in all aspects of life.”

Domonique McCartney-Russell, the director of education, who filled in for the absence of Minister Hanna-Martin, said their celebration of athletic excellence, hard work and determination under the theme “The Power of Education and Sports in Youth Development” is a good way for the GSSSA to provide a platform for the young children to grow.

“Your investment in sports education and competition is an investment in the future of our nation,” McCartney-Russell stated. 

To our coaches, she said your dedication and passion will not go unnoticed.

“You are all the backbone of this competition, shaping our athletes, not just in track and field, but for life itself,” she stressed. 

“Thank you for your mentorship and the sacrifices that you have made daily in helping our children, our athletes, with endurance, strength, polymetric training, hydration, nutrients, injury protection and prevention and recovery strategies.”

She noted the championships will not just be about who crosses the finish line first, but rather about sportsmanship, team work and self-improvement.

“We have witnessed incredible performances, personal bests and moments of true grit over the years,” she pointed out. 

“But our goal in the Ministry of Education for our children, our athletes, is not just to develop premier athletes.

“There are so many other benefits to participation in athletics including physical fitness, emotional health, academic success and discipline. Students also develop their social skills and are exposed to a variety of career opportunities in sports, in fitness business and education.”

She advised the athletes competing in the championships that their “hard work’ is paying off and she wished them every success in their endeavours. 

GSSSA president Varel Davis reconfirmed that “sports play an essential role in the growth and development of our youth.”

She noted that while they welcome Knowles for the role she is now playing as a former teacher at RM Bailey, they will also take the time out during this year’s championships to pay homage to the late Jack Knowles, a former long-time teacher at CH Reeves, who passed away last year.

“Our schools, athletes and coaches are eager for the competition,” she stated. 

“We are anticipating an exciting championship (this week). Regardless of the outcome, whether win, lose or draw, let’s make this one to remember.”

Ishmael Smith, the president of the New Providence Association of Secondary Schools, the parent body of the GSSSA, said a lot of work has gone into making the event a success.

“These athletes not only represent their schools, but also the hope and promise of the future of education and sports when they are given the attention and resources they deserve,” he said. “Together, they will shape the next generation of innovators and leaders.”

Smith too encouraged the parents to make a collective effort to provide the same type of assistance to their children as they would do for them when they are in the classroom.

Royal Bahamas Police Force superintendent Treco Sweeting from the Grove Police Station said the continued success of the event will depend on the participation of the parents.

“The kids know that they have to behave when their parents are there,” he said. “I just want to put out a call to all parents who have athletes competing in this event to please try and come out and support your athlete.”

He noted that their presence is even more important because the children tell their parents that they are going to the stadium and they are not there. They use their time to go and do other things.

To safeguard the children, Sweeting said they have devised a number of plans to deal with those persons in attendance in and outside of the stadium.

And Dr Barr, a member of the security team headed by Nathan Archer, said they will have about 30 officers in attendance to support the RBPF and to ensure that everybody follows the protocols in place.

“We will be enforcing the rules. This is no time to play around,” he stressed. “All of us who can make a difference, let’s make a difference.”

Jaron Williams, a member of the National Sports Authority, said persons in attendance will be comfortable with the first phase of the renovations they have made to the stadium.

He noted that there have been improvements to the bathroom blocks, general entry areas, improved track surface, parking and an additional 500 seats for the spectators.

“We congratulate the GSSSA for its commitment to providing a quality event for its students,” he said. “We at the NSA will match your energy and professionalism by providing you with a first-class facility, service and experience.”

The meet will get underway at 9am each morning.