Football clinic planning anniversary celebration
Football’s Skillz ‘n’ Drillz clinic, run by Kevin Simpson, will host a a special celebration on its fifth anniversary at Devonshire Recreation Club next year as a token of appreciation for those who have helped since its inception.Simpson turned his fledgling camp from a small neighbourhood youth camp into an Island-wide showpiece that teaches children from four to 12 the basic skills of the game, life skills, team work and honesty all on the basis of having fun.The clinic, aimed at promoting community awareness, was founded in Simpson’s back yard in 2007 and is now based at Devonshire Rec. and Prospect Primary School.The anniversay event is planned for March.“We would like to thank all our sponsors, private businesses, individuals, parents and affiliates who have believed and trusted in our programme throughout these last five years, and hope for your continued support,” said Simpson.“There are many people who have came out in the past, including the Ministry of Education, Devonshire Recreation Club just to name a few and it has been a privilege and honour to have these types of established enterprises on board.“We welcome any new or potential sponsors, local businesses or individuals who have a vested interest in building our youth’s character to come on board and play a huge role in their lives.“We also have our Outreach Programme that is active when our coaches are not at work.”The annual Skillz N Drillz Tournament/Fun Day in March will compromise of under-eight teams competing for honours.“The tournament will only be a piece of what the day will be all about but everyone will see when the time comes,” said Simpson.Simpson has participated at the David Bascome’s Pro Soccer Clinic and spent eight years as youth coach for Devonshire Cougars.He has also travelled overseas with teams and helped with Hamilton Parish at the 2011 Continental Cup in Ohio, USA.The coaches at the camp make regular visits to schools to check on their players to ensure they are excelling in their educational studies.Former players at the camp have also returned to help the next generation, including Cougars senior player Juma Mouchette.The camp will also be holding their Christmas Soccer and Fun Camp at Prospect Primary School from December 19 to 23 with lunch being donated by Grotto Bay Hotel, Hamilton Princess and Atlantic Publishing House.For information about the upcoming camp, interested parents can contact Kevin Simpson at skillzanddrillz[AT]hotmail.com