Selkridge: True Ambassador; stunning example of skill, talent & endeavour!
Selkridge, playing on the University of Tampa Volleyball team in the NCAA Division II Sunshine State Conference, had such a stellar season that she was named SSC Player of the Year and Southern Region Player of the Year.
She was also named a 1st Team All American and was ranked number 2 in the USA for her hitting percentage of .498.
Her path to success all started right here in the Virgin Islands under the watchful eye of Jackie Weekes and her Matrix Organisation which specializes in introducing and coaching the game of Volleyball to beginners through to National Players.
In front of a sizeable crowd, Selkridge responded to the celebration. “I’m truly grateful for the sport, I am especially grateful for the support of the government. I will do my best to represent the county to the best of my ability. I must thank Jackie Weekes for training me and sticking with me through the days when my hand eye coordination was nonexistent. I’m truly honoured for the all your appreciation of my accomplishments abroad.”
Joanne “Roxy” Romney who had also been involved in the early days of Selkridge’s career and had been a barrier breaking college athlete herself in the sport of Tennis, made a presentation of a Blackberry Phone on behalf of Digicel went onto say: “It is a pleasure to be here and I’m very proud of Danielle. I saw her blossom from the age of 11, she was very shy, but we worked with her and Jackie Weekes and look at the difference it made. Talent is natural but you have to have heart. Danielle has the heart with the talent and that is what will take her to the next level.”
The one thing Romney kept telling Selkridge is that she had to have attitude and with that attitude she could overcome all obstacles.
“Danielle is a living example of what can be achieved through the right support and hard work.”
His Excellency, Governor William Boyd Mcleary attended the ceremony as did the Premier, the Honourable Dr. D. Orlando Smith and the Honourable Minister of Education, Culture and Sports, Myron Walwyn.
“A Lady of great talent and ability,” stated The Governor. “You have achieved great things and will no doubt go on to achieve much more in your career.”
The Premier also congratulated Selkridge on her great achievements. He himself played the game at the University of the West Indies. “Danielle has natural talent and has excelled in her chosen sport.”
“I didn’t fully appreciate the skill of Danielle until I heard her stats today,” commented Walwyn. “We have a star in the making and we are all proud of you.”
The Ag. Director of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Patrick Harrigan, who hosted the event, wrapped things up by confirming that Jackie Weekes and her Matrix Foundation had definitely got the support of both the DYAS and also the Ministry in her efforts to re-invigorate and develop the sport of Volleyball.
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