MVP Sports Owner Ian Ramdeo addressing the opening ceremony
For the next few weeks, some of the best of Guyana’s girls’ under-11 football talents would be on show at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground in Carifesta Avenue as the MVP Sports Girls’ Pee-Wee tournament is played.
Following a grand march past ceremony, which was won by West Ruimveldt Primary, the tournament was officially kicked off this morning with teams from Regions 1, 3, 4, 7 and 10 in attendance. MVP Sports’ owner, Ian Ramdeo, highlighted the tournament’s growth, praised the organisers for sticking to the programme, and expressed, “Last year, I think, was the first year we sponsored the tournament, and we committed to continue to sponsor as far as we can and into the future. I think we had 12 teams last year, and I understand there are 14 teams this year. So, there’s a little bit of growth, but hopefully, in time we can get to 20/24 teams, and even more.”
A scene from the opening day of the MVP Sports Girls’ U11 Pee- Wee tournament
The MVP Sports’ owner went on to add, “And I must say Petra has done an excellent job in getting to this point so far, especially in girls’ football – which in the beginning the girls used to play as part of the boys’ teams. So, now we have an actual tournament for you,”.
Speaking on behalf of the coordinators, Petra Organisation, Co-Director Troy Mendonca gave a charge to the little ladies when he said, “We want you to enjoy your game. Be happy with yourself whether you win, lose or draw; give respect, respect each other; treat each other the way you would like them to treat you.”
When the on-field action began, a brace from Reniese Joseph led Potaro Primary to the first win of the tournament — 2-1 over Smith Memorial Primary.
Also in the winners’ circle was West Ruimveldt Primary, who defeated Genesis Primary 5-0. Ariel Farley netted 4 goals, while Jada McRae assisted with one.
The tournament will continue next Saturday at the same venue.
