The Prime Minister’s Cup was officially launched at Friendship Ground, Hothersal Turning, St. Michael, earlier this week, with Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley emphasizing its potential to foster not only athletic excellence but also social and economic opportunities for the community.
Delivering an inspiring speech in front of hundreds of fans, she encouraged participating teams to seize the moment.
Ms. Mottley told players in the first match between Deacons Football Club and Parish Land: “You have the opportunity to prove yourselves as credible football players. This field is more than just a place for sport; it’s a platform for creating opportunities whether it’s for yourselves, the vendors supporting their families, or the broader community.”
Highlighting the multifaceted benefits of the tournament, Prime Minister Mottley underscored the importance of teamwork and financial responsibility. “By working together as a team, you set a goal and work towards it. This tournament isn’t just about what happens on the field, it’s about making you stronger, better citizens of Barbados. Those who are untrained or unemployed let us help you find a path forward to provide for yourselves and your families,” she stated.
She also stressed the importance of setting and achieving goals, both on and off the field. “If you’re scoring goals here, you better understand when I say it’s about setting a goal and having a plan to achieve it. The financial literacy and other programmess we’ve implemented are designed to elevate you to victory, both individually and as a team,” noted PM Mottley.
Acknowledging that the tournament sets the tone for sportsmanship and community spirit, she reminded the participants: “We will enjoy good sportsmanship, but we will not tolerate any foolishness. If issues arise, we will address them immediately.”
The Prime Minister’s Cup is part of a broader initiative to create opportunities for Barbadians across various sports, including road tennis, cricket, netball, and motorsports. Reflecting on the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Mottley said, “after three years of shutdown, the time has come for us to lift the game and create opportunities for ourselves.”
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the tournament would not only uplift the community but also empower participants to explore opportunities beyond Barbados. “I hope and pray that some of you will start to support your families through this tournament. The world is your oyster, and it’s not only about what you can achieve here, but also about empowering people to see possibilities for you elsewhere in the world,” she emphasised.
In closing, she announced plans for a Master’s game at the end of the tournament, aimed at providing additional training and growth opportunities for the players. “Set the goal, meet the goal, and let us be successful in the Prime Minister’s Cup,” she urged, expressing her anticipation for the tournament and the grand finale on November 30.
The Prime Minister’s Cup has a top prize of $100,000 and other prizes. It is aimed at exposing players to financial literacy and other skills to elevate them.
Eighty-nine matches will be played by 24 teams, across the island.
The tournament continues tonight with Wotton vs Paradise and Pride of Gall Hill vs Whitehall Titans, at Gall Hill, St, John.