Anthony Foster, Freelance Writer
From left): Elton Bruce, president of New York-based Social Agenda for Education, St. Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) principal Dorothy Samuda, STETHS captain Damion Ebanks, Evon Redman, Santa Cruz businessman, and Charles Simpson, managing director of Wilco Sports, with gear presented to the school by Bruce at the campus last Friday. – Anthony Foster Photo
MANY-TIME Headley Cup cricket champions St. Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) recently received a big boost ahead of the 2006 season, which bowls off next month.
At the presentation ceremony held during the school's devotion last Friday in Santa Cruz, Elton Bruce, president of New York-based Social Agenda for Education, presented the school with cricket gear.
The presentation of four pairs of batting gloves, four pairs of pads, four bats, one pair of wicketkeeping gloves, three batting helmets, one team bag, 18 balls and one pair of wicketkeeping pads was valued at more than $105,000.
In handing over the gear to team captain Damion Ebanks and principal Dorothy Samuda, Bruce told the students that he hoped the bats would make some centuries next season.
He also made it clear that this was just one of his organisation's many gifts to Caribbean bodies.
He explained a little about his organisation and how it came about.
"A few of our members came here (Jamaica) and saw some needs, so we formed a small committee (Social Agenda for Education) to address the needs," Bruce said of the 12-year-old organisation.
"Whatever we do in having our little fun in North America, the emphasis should be to help the children of Jamaica," he
continued.
HELPING SPORTS
Bruce said his organisation was not just about helping sports, but also to help students with scholarships and education on a whole. He also handed over a cheque of US$1,000 to Black River Hospital on the same day.
"We have a responsibility to the children of Jamaica and it's not just about buying the sneakers," he said.
STETHS's captain Ebanks was happy with the gifts.
"We are very thankful for it," he said. "I hope the guys will cherish it and care for them to the best of their ability.
"These are much needed and we got them at the right time," Ebanks said.
