On Monday night, Prime Minister Mia Mottley set an inspiring tone for the inaugural Prime Minister’s Cup tournament with a grand cash prize of $100,000.
Addressing the large crowd present during the coin toss to start the first preliminary match between Deacons and Parish Land, Mottley stressed the importance of goal setting and strategic planning in her address at Friendship Ground, Hothersal Turning in St Michael.
Stating that she was honoured to be present for the commencement of the tournament, Mottley said sporting initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Cup should significantly impact the lives of both footballers and the wider Barbadian community.
She invoked the legacy of Sir Frank Worrell, a legendary Barbadian cricketer who stood against racial discrimination. Also outlining that the tournament was not just about winning matches, the prime minister contended that it was about winning the hearts and minds of people.
Mottley urged the organisers to focus not only on the players’ skills on the field but also on their holistic development.
She stressed the need for initiatives that promote financial literacy, job training, and skills development. This would ensure that those not currently employed or without skills are given the tools to become productive members of society.
“The programmes to expose you to financial literacy and other life skills are vital. This tournament should be about making you stronger, better citizens of Barbados,” Mottley explained.
She also called for maintaining high standards of sportsmanship throughout the competition, warning against any forms of indiscipline, alluding to issues that could disrupt the tournament’s positive atmosphere.
Mottley mentioned that this event is a continuation of efforts by her and the late Prime Minister David Thompson to create meaningful opportunities for Barbadians. She hinted at future initiatives in other sports, such as road tennis, cricket, and netball, aimed at elevating the sporting landscape and providing platforms for local talent to shine.
“After three years of restrictions due to COVID, the time has come for us to elevate the game and create opportunities. I hope that through this tournament, we can identify and nurture talent, ensuring that the world truly is your oyster,” Mottley concluded.
(AS)
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