The Cool and Smooth of Antigua donated some $4,000 worth of items to the Montserrat Cricket Association (MCA). The presentation was done on Monday, March 7, at the Tropical Mansion Suites in Sweeny’s.
President of the MCA, Gregory Willock indicated that the package consisted of 17 jerseys for the cricket youth team, 30 sponge balls, three footballs, one basketball and pump, one volleyball and two gear bags.
He indicated that the Association has several plans on the drawing board but due to financial constraints many may not materialise. With help not as forthcoming as could be expected on the home front, the Association is now in the process of securing funds from outside of Montserrat. According to Mr. Willock, in order to get the process moving, some discussion was held with representatives of the Cool and Smooth, hence the donation. “We are starting a partnership…with nearby Antigua,” Mr. Willock stated.
President of the MCA Gregory Willock
The President of the MCA expressed gratitude to the Management of the Cool and Smooth, noted that this is only the beginning. “I am amazed, I am excited. There is no limit to what they can provide,” he said.
The MCA is responsible for all cricket on the island. It is operated and controlled by an executive body. According to Mr. Willock, the Cool and Smooth is expected to also sponsor the basketball league.
Manager of Cool and Smooth Alex Hourni
Manager of Cool and Smooth, Alex Hourni, who said he is known for his involvement in the development sports in Antigua, spoke of the initial steps taken in order to make the venture a reality. He noted that the information he received suggested the game of cricket was on a downhill journey and he decided to step in to save it. Mr. Hourni acknowledged that his organization would also be working along with different clubs and organizations in Montserrat including the football and basketball associations.
Opening batsman ShawnTuitt and opening bowler Oliver Meade, both of the Montserrat Youth Team, were pleased with the generosity of the Cool and Smooth. The young Meade believed that the donation was a move in the right direction. “It’s a good thing right now. We really need this stuff.”
