Dear Editor,
I was surprised by a particular revelation in Sean Dever’s article in Kaieteur News dated 2022/03/15 under the caption ‘Amsterdam (AA) honoured by the project’. I never knew that former Vice President of the GCB and President of the BCB, the late Mr. Leslie Amsterdam, was born in Essequibo. During my playing days as an Inter-County player primarily at the under-19 level, Uncle Leslie as he was fondly referred to, was serving as the GCB Vice President and would be present at matches during the early 1990s. While I cannot recall to have had any conversation with him, it struck me that his affiliation to the county was never mentioned to us as youngsters then.
My recollection of Mr. Leslie Amsterdam, though, was his short stature, neatness and his refined approach in the company of other officials. I was very observant and it occurred to me, as I reflect now, that he was very much respected since he captured the attention of almost everyone he interacted with at a cricket ground. I suppose his presence to many of our matches was a testimony of his affection for us; I hope we didn’t let him down amid the challenges we faced then to be represented. I therefore wish that the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) will initiate a process that will officially recognize Mr. Amsterdam for his outstanding contribution to the sport and having born in Essequibo.
Sincerely,
Elroy Stephney
Former Essequibo Inter-county
Captain
