Director of Sport Neil Kumar has pledged government’s support to the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA).
Kumar made the pledge last Friday at the closing ceremony of the annual Digicel-sponsored schools’ table tennis tournament which was contested at the National Gymnasium.
“I want to tell the GTTA that they will be getting government support,” Kumar said in delivering the feature address. He had already promised to work with the GTTA in providing tables and other equipment to schools when delivering the opening address at the tournament.
Kumar also praised Digicel for its sponsorship of the sport pointing out that the telephone company had a unique opportunity of being able to aid the development of the nation’s youths.
“Digicel has a golden opportunity to excel in sponsorship. Sports take you where you want to go,” he declared adding that it was also a useful and healthy lifestyle for young people.
He also spoke of the input of parents pointing out that parental support was necessary in order for children to excel. He also mentioned the link between family life and children participating in sports and suggested that family life was an important cog in the wheel of the development of a child in sports and life in general. Digicel’s Marketing Executive Gavin Hope, in a short speech, reiterated his company support for the sport and congratulated the winners.
“It’s your time to shine… enjoy the proceeds of your hard work,” Hope, a former national sprint champion told the players.
Acting president of the GTTA, Godfrey Munroe said that in staging the team championships, the GTTA had achieved its objective of unearthing talent.
“A lot of the players worked hard and played well,” said. “I want to congratulate the players who participated and won medals. I also want to thank the parents, coaches and teachers,” said Munroe adding that the GTTA was looking to have more such tournaments in its programme of activities.
Munroe also disclosed that the singles version of the schools championships will be held next year.
Bishops’ High School was adjudged the most outstanding school at the championships winning the 18 years and under and the 15 years and under team titles while Marian Academy won the 13 years and under title and Mae’s, the 11 years and under crown.
