Recently, Bermuda's Brazilian Soccer School (BBSS) visited the Somerset Primary School, as guest speakers during their Prefect installation Assembly.
'Saying No to Gangs/Drugs and Yes to Education and A Healthy Lifestyle'
BBSS CEO Clavin Blankendal compared a deflated ball to a person on drugs who could not walk or bounce around in life or on the field. The fully pumped up balls symbolized a drug-free person, who would make their own choice and go where they pleased as they were full of life. He stressed the need to pay attention in school, as teachers are the same as coaches. All they want is for each student/player to succeed in life and win for the team, their families and to make Bermuda, a special place to live.
BBSS Director Dennis Brown addressed the importance of being a leader and not a follower. He stressed that gangs and drugs were only there to use and abuse people, especially young persons. He gave examples of his firsthand experience as a Principal Officer in the Department of Corrections, at the Westgate Correctional Inmate Facility. He further elaborated on the principles of BBSS, which were to be 100% drug free and inclusive for both male and female students. The objectives of BBSS are to set individual goals, which ultimately lead to the success of the group.
BBSS trainees Tahj Wade and Jahmeko Harvey Outerbridge gave a demonstration to the students, as to the technical skills they have learned thus far. It was a special day for all BBSS guests as, Harvey Outerbridge attended Somerset Primary and his younger brother is a current student of the school.
Wade is a resident of Somerset and player of Somerset Trojans. Director Brown grew up in Somerset and is well known as the coach of Somerset Trojans. CEO Blankendal was taught by Principal Evereth J. Richardson when he attended West Pembroke Primary School and was pleased to give back to his former teacher.
The Assembly concluded with the BBSS guest handing all of the Prefects their badges and reminding them to be leaders not followers.
Principal Richardson said, “Thanks again for participating and contributing to the installation of prefects during our school assembly. I look forward to continue working with you and your team. Be assured we have the same vision for the students we share, therefore, it is critical that we work collaboratively (parents included) and demonstrate our commitment, expectations and support to developing the whole child”.
Blankendal thanked the school for having invited Bermuda's Brazilian Soccer School, as this is one of BBSS mandates to give back to the community. If any school or organization wishes for Bermuda's Brazilian Soccer School to come to their assembly, PTA meeting or special event, please contact us via info@bermudasoccer.org.
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