The fourth annual Sportsmanship presentation ceremony proved to be a significant social and cultural event at the Manchester Unity Hall in Hamilton.

The Bermuda Friendly Societies Association (BFSA) instituted the award to reaffirm and perpetuate the link of the Odd Fellows with the origination of the annual Somerset-St.George's Cup Match more than 100 years ago as a celebration of Emancipation (of slaves) in 1834.

The cedar Emancipation Cup and other trophies go to the player in the Cup Match judged to be displaying good character and sportsmanship in the classic. The 2007 winner is Somerset Cricket Club batsman Janeiro Tucker.

The BFSA calls this "The Cup Match Reconnect", Bro. Dr. Michael Bradshaw explained, recalling the statement purpose outlined previously by Sis. Joy Wilson Tucker, secretary and pre-eminent historian, and president Boyd Smith.

Among the honoured guests at the presentation was Minister of Education and Sport Randy Horton. An outstanding Cup Match player, the Minister praised the Friendly Societies as the finest examples of the much talked about sustainable development in Bermuda over the centuries.

Another outstanding Cup Match player, Calvin (Bummy) Symonds presented the shield and Emancipation Cup to Janeiro.

He had the highest praise for Janeiro, who holds the record for highest individual score in Cup Match (186), recalling his efforts with the Bermuda national team in the World Cup in Trinidad earlier this year and taking what Bummy said was the most spectacular catch he saw in the tournament.

My photos show Janeiro Tucker (right) with his trophies. Below left: Friendly Society leaders, from left, Joy Wilson Tucker, guests Janeiro Tucker and Calvin (Bummy) Symonds), Lynn Wade, Kyle Bridgewater, and the master of ceremonies, Border. Michael Bradshaw. Top, from left: Calvin Symonds and wife Valerie; Heather Whalen, the Director of Community Affairs; Bro. Donald Rhoda and Lionel Dowling. Behind them are Janeiro's parents, former Cup star John Tucker and wife Belinda; and Lannel Furbert. On stage are Minister Horton with Janeiro and his wife Nolette.