Executives of the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) yesterday met with Minister of Culture Youth and Sport, Frank Anthony at the Sport Ministry’s office, Main Street, in an effort to garner assistance for projects to be launched by the newly-elected LABA executives.
Meeting with Minister Anthony yesterday were LABA Vice President Rawle Toney, Secretary Joe Chapman, Assistant Treasurer Rowena DeJonge and Public Relations Officer Devan Sears.
Speaking with Stabroek Sport via telephone shortly after the meeting with Anthony, Toney disclosed that the meeting was very productive and the Sport Ministry “seemed very supportive” towards plans proposed by LABA.
However, Toney noted that Anthony did not commit to any financial support, but stated that the ministry will assist in whatever way they can for the commencement of LABA-organised tournaments and other activities.
He added that Anthony “asked for an assessment of all the basketball venues in Linden” but no commitment was made.
According to Toney, Anthony said that his ministry will assist with trophies and “whatever support they can offer” for competitions.
Toney disclosed that LABA had intentions to commence a tournament during the Linden Town Week celebrations.
However, the tournament has since been brought forward since it was not finalized in time to be slated among the Town Week activities.
Toney further noted that since the majority of basketball clubs in Linden have not yet registered under the new LABA administration, they have decided to play the competition in wards.
“The competition will be played in four wards, two from Wismar shore and two from Mackenzie.
The four teams will be playing on a knockout basis for two playing nights,” said Toney as he revealed some details on the upcoming competition.
The LABA vice president however noted that the dates of the two nights on which the competition will be played is tentative.
In addition to this tournament, Toney stated that Anthony offered to work with LABA and the Ministry of Education for the staging of a Schools Basketball Competition.
However, unlike the current schools competition that is contested in Linden, it will be for students under the age of 15.
Toney said further that the Mackenzie Sports Club project was also on the table for discussion, since the basketball court at the facility has been scheduled for repairs for some time now.
Toney added that the project should have commenced, but it has not yet started and the Sports Ministry will be looking into the matter. “They seem inclined to work with LABA and we are pleased by the gesture because we took over a defunct association and we appreciate the assistance.
“We at LABA are happy to have the ministry on board with whatever support they are willing to give and we will accept everything with open arms,” said Toney.
Further, he stated that LABA has received brand new back boards for the court from Ansa Mcal and the beverage company has also committed to constructing dressing rooms at the facility, but this is pending the completion of the basketball court at the venue.
