2006 Ridgway Blake SEPSSA games report

SEPSSA Games players of the tournament © ICC

Introduction

This year 2006 `SEPSSA' Games is significant for junior cricket in Vila especially kids in primary schools geared up for the games. SEPSSA (South Efate Primary Schools Sports Association) Games Super 8's Cricket is made up of schools around Efate. The tournament has been played for the last 4 years and there are quiet a number of schools competing in the tournament. The number of participating schools has been decreased by one but the competition itself gets stronger especially when new schools enter the tournament. I must say that some schools were probably organized and it shows in the game that they were ready to compete. A few kids have proved to us that they have those skills to play good cricket in their young age and they get the chance to expose their skills and talents.

22 schools played in the `SEPSSA' Games in 4 pools of 5 & 6. (Draw attached) Competition between schools is very competitive compared to the last 3 years or so. A couple of schools have to travel 10 - 15 km every week to play while others only need to walk to play. All games were played at Independence Park and were played within the spirit of the game.

We were fortunate to have Ridgway Blake Lawyers as the main sponsor for the tournament. Ridgway Blake Lawyers' sponsorship for the 2006 `SEPSSA' games is 30000vt worth of trophies which is very much appreciated by the VCA. Vanuatu Cricket Association acknowledges their support in the development of junior cricket in Vanuatu and I strongly believe that this kind of sponsor can attract the attention of other schools that did not participate in the `SEPSSA' games. It will give them an opportunity to provide kids with an opportunity to play in a sport they never played before. We are proud to announce that Ridgway Blake Lawyers are happy to sponsor the 2007 `SEPSSA' Games tournament.

* The competition between schools competing in the `SEPSSA' games continues to impress everyone involved and the competition itself is attracting more teachers and even parents to come and watch the finals played. Some school teachers have shown some interest in coaching school teams

* Competition between schools is competitive compared to the last 3 years. Like I mentioned earlier on that I must say some schools were probably organized and it shows in the game that they were ready to compete. A few kids have proved to us that they have those skills to play good cricket in their young age and they get the chance to expose their skills and talents.

* There were a number of individual performances. Vila East School boys retain their title with their third consecutive win by defeating Eratap School and Pango English defeat Eratap in the girls grand final.(Finals results is attached) This year Eratap School has made a big surprise by playing both teams in the grand final which is a challenge to other schools. Congratulations to the winners.

* Primary schools teachers' assistance in organizing and arrangements of school teams turning up each week for the games continues to impress everyone.

Teachers have played an important role by giving in their time and effort for helping out in the games. They are invaluable volunteers for cricket in Vanuatu. Without them the tournament won't be a success. Finally thanks to the `SEPSSA' Games committee and PEO for Shefa Province for their initiative to play cricket in term 1. It is very encouraging to see that students have shown interest and this is something we want to encourage as it will build the opportunity for each individual.