By Floyd Christie
The champions of the recently-concluded Mackeson National Super Ward Basketball Championships, Albouytown-Charlestown were yesterday presented with a cheque for $500,000 at the office of ANSA McAL Trading Limited, Beterverwagting yesterday.
The presentation was made by Managing Director of the company, Beverley Harper, who noted that the company expended a lot of money on sporting activities adding that it was, however, “happy to do so”.
“Sport is one of the ways I think that our youth can develop themselves, learn team spirit, learn a sense of commitment and discipline, which is so necessary to achieve,” Harper said. She congratulated the Albouystown-Charlestown team who were represented by tournament MVP Rodwell ‘Kobe’ Fortune, Nico Fraser and Dellon Howard.
Fortune was presented with a brand new pair of LeBron James sneakers, a Playstation Two video games, a trophy and cash incentives, compliments of Giftland Office Max.
The second place team Central Mackezie received $250,000; third place Christianburg $150,000 and the fourth place North Ruimveldt, $75,000.
Also addressing the gathering prior to the presentation ceremony was president of the Georgetown Amateur basketball Association (GABA) Trevor Rose.
Rose commended the players and added that the association saw a lot of improvements from the players.
“Playing for $500,000 cash, it brings out the best and the highest quality in players,” Rose stated, adding that players who compete at club level were given a chance to showcase their full potential.
Due to the success of the Mackeson Super Ward championships, it is expected that the tournament will become an annual event. Plans are already being made for the hosting of the tournament next year. According to Rose it is expected to be bigger and more successful the next time around.