Over 50 young athletes attended the BVIAA's Life Skills Seminar. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

Professional Athlete, Karene King, gave a motivational talk to the young athletes. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

The Athletes were given presentations on a wide range of topics from health and hygiene to anti-doping rules. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

Elmore Stoutt High School Nurse, Beth Brown, discussed the importance of personal hygiene. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/VINO

The seminar, the brainchild of the BVIAA General Secretary, Delva Thomas, targeted athletes of all ages and included the majority of those soon to depart for the Carifta Games in Martinique as well as members from Virgin Gorda’s Raw Skillz Track Club, Sprint Tech, Fast Lane and Top Notch.

“We have had different sessions in the past but this is the first time we have done it this way away from the track where they could focus better and dedicate their time to the presentations,” explained BVIAA General Secretary Delva Thomas who initiated the seminar. “Things went very well and they learnt a lot.”

The seminar focused on five core areas. Anger management and self worth which was presented by Dr. Cindy George; motivation and inspiration conducted by athlete Karene King; public speaking by Sachkia Barnes; personal hygiene presented by Nurse Beth Brown and a session on anti-doping presented by BVI Olympic Committee Executive Director Cleave Farrington.

Professional athlete King thought her speech went well. “My main point was to motivate them to continue to work hard, keep the faith and do what they have to do to get where they need to be,” she said.

Barnes was quick to praise the efforts of the Association as they look to develop the athletes “It is important that we prepare them all aspects as they compete on the World stage. During my presentation we spoke about verbal and non verbal communication along with preparing them to answer particular questions,” she said.

Barnes also noted that it is worth remembering that they are student/athletes, young people and may not have much experience in certain settings. “It is important we are patient with them and prepare them to not be intimidated and [to] be confident,” said Barnes.

“We really thank our fine presenters for sharing with our athletes,” said Thomas who was assisted in organizing the event by BVIAA Marketing Director Carol Smith. “We will be undertaking future ventures throughout the year.”