Eight of Bermuda’s promising young soccer players graduated today from the week long HSBC School of Excellence Programme, managed by Pro MISL player David Bascome. the ten players were selected to participate in the programme based on their leadership qualities, positive attitude and superior work rate displayed during the HSBC Pro Soccer Clinic, which took place a week prior.
The HSBC School of Excellence ran from July 5 – July 9, 2010 and sought to help the chosen students expand on their skills both on and off the field by taking classes, work experience and soccer training every day. This year’s chosen students are Uzziah Bell, Marquis Burgess, Ryan Cantrella, Anthony Francis, Shomuri Simons, Teara Thomas, Tah-mi Williams and Zhiyah Wolffe.
The group of eight 12-14 year olds underwent an intensive week long programme which culminated in a project for Hope for Life, an anti-drug and violence organization that promotes the connection of sport and community. Their project included three tiers; communication, events and fundraising and their ideas spanned from a family fitness day to a teen chat forum, the latter of which they have implemented through Facebook. 14 year old Thomas said, “The purpose of the chat is to encourage teens to express themselves instead of keeping it in. We want to get our community and children involved in positive things.”
Shannon Burgess, HSBC representative believes that the HSBC School of Excellence will positively affect the students’ soccer skills as well as help them become stronger members of the community. Burgess said, “I am confident that all of these participants will not only walk away from this programme stronger, fitter and more confident n their soccer playing ability but with a greater regard for teamwork and community spirit.”
Bascome said, “The Hope for Life Program is designed to keep the community together and our goal is to keep this group together to see their events come to life. We want to thank HSBC because without your support and help, this would not be possible.”
Mike Williams coach at HSBC Pro Soccer Clinic and Vice President of Operations for Williams F.C., was extremely proud of the project put forth by the students. He said, “It’s a heavy task to put on them, but I want to see these future leaders bring positive change into their community.”
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