Milo schools football continues focus on gender-based violence

…“There is no excuse for violence” – Dr Bassier

The sixth annual milo schools football tournament has once again partnered with the Ministry of Public health to promote the issue of gender-based violence. Ahead of this Saturday’s kick-off, the organisers have managed to secure the alliance of the Ministry of Public Health in an effort to bring greater awareness on the social ill.
Public Relations Officer of Ministry of Public Health Terrence Esseboom speaking at the press briefing on Thursday at the National Library, noted the importance of the players learning to develop both social and physical skills.
Esseboom drew a parallel to football where players are shown various cards for infringements on the field and the same applies to life which is one of the main reasons they should try to curb their vexation.

Likewise, Men’s Health Coordinator, Dr. Dennis Bassier advocated for young men to realise the value and impact of having a healthy physical life and this tournaments helps promote the development of one’s well-being.
Bassier also highlighted the theme is “there is no excuse for violence” and reminded the attendees that violence is not gender-biased. He further encouraged the boys at the gathering that they are the men of tomorrow and they should avoid gender-based violence at all cost”.
Meanwhile, Guyana Football Federation Technical Director Ian Greenwood re-affirmed his commitment to schools in offering technical assistance.
According to Greenwood all of the 24 participating school have been contacted by the GFF and they will have licenced coaches attached. Additionally he explained they will be visiting schools to discuss their plans on technical development and what It entails for Guyana’s football.
The Englishman also stated they will be scouting for young talents to place in their respective programmes to become prospective national players.
Petra Organisation’s Co-Director Troy Mendonca explained the change in rules for the tournament. The rules had initially stated if you revived two yellow cards in separate matches you will miss the other match but now indiscipline players will be faced with a ‘sin bin’.
The concept means players who receive a yellow card on the field of play, they will have to sit out 10% of the time reaming in the match, which essentially means the team will play a man down.
Balls were also donated to each of the schools to aid in their preparation. On Saturday at the Ministry of Education ground from 12:00 hrs Buxton Youth Development will play Business School followed by St Roses High and Cummings Lodge from 13:30 hrs. The final match of the day will pit three-time defending champions Chase Academic Foundation against Carmel Secondary.
The following day another triple header will occur as South Ruimveldt battle Charlestown from noon after which Masters Academy face Queenstown Secondary from 13:30 hrs. Curtains will be drawn on the day’s proceedings when Sir Leon Lesson clash with Uitivulgt Secondary from 15:00 hrs.
The under-18 Teams will be hoping to secure the first place prize of $500,000 which goes towards a school project. Second to fourth, will receive $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively which also go towards school projects.