Reviving hockey in Reg. 3 schools through National Sports Academy

The National Sports Academy Programme is transforming the future of sport in Guyana through its high-energy, daily training model. Conceptualised by Culture, Youth and Sport Minister Charles Ramson Jr and launched in 2021, the programme is spearheaded by the National Sports Commission (NSC) in close collaboration with national sports associations and federations across the core sports.

Together, NSC sports organisers, coaches, and federation representatives bring structured, hands-on training directly to athletes at national facilities, schools, and community playfields.
Leading the charge for hockey in Region Three (Essequibo Islands–West Demerara) is former national hockey player and NSC Sports Organiser, Deon Carew.
Under his guidance, the Hockey Academy is rapidly gaining momentum, engaging more than 90 students from five secondary schools: Zeeburg, De Willem, Leonora, Uitvlugt, and Stewartsville Secondary Schools.
Training sessions take place every Wednesday to Friday during physical education periods, blending skill development, discipline, and a passion for the game.
Looking ahead, the programme has ambitious plans to reignite and expand hockey in schools across Region Three.
These include establishing school hockey clubs to serve as talent nurseries, hosting an inter-school hockey competition, and inviting promising athletes to participate in advanced training sessions at the Uitvlugt Community Centre as part of the wider Academy framework.

Strengthening this collaborative effort, the Guyana Hockey Board of Control made a significant contribution by donating the original equipment kit – approximately 90 hockey sticks and balls – ensuring athletes have the tools they need to thrive.
Meanwhile, students also engage in classroom-based theoretical sessions and visual learning. All sessions are expertly facilitated by Deon Carew, whose experience as a former national hockey player continues to inspire the next generation.