Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (Monday, 11 August 2014) On Thursday, 7 August, the Ministry and Department of Tourism hosted a welcome luncheon for players, coaches and chaperones participating in the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) inaugural Girls’ Under-15 championship competition taking place in the Cayman Islands from 6-17 August 2014.

Hosted at the Brac Reef Resort in Cayman Brac, the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Moses Kirkconnell, shared his enthusiasm and pride to have matches played in the new Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) approved stadium. “It is exciting to have these teams in the Cayman Islands for this dynamic competition, and especially in my home- Cayman Brac. The work of many people in the Brac and throughout the Cayman Islands has made this tournament a reality for our jurisdiction. We look forward to seeing the Brac stadium continue to flourish as a training ground for up and coming athletes and play host to future competitions of this calibre.”

CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb, Speaker of the House, Hon. Juliana O’Connor-Connolly, Minister of Sports the Hon. Osbourne Bodden, Chief Officer of District Administration, Stran Bodden, District Commissioner, Ernie Scott, Director of the Department of Tourism Rosa Harris, and other government dignitaries were in attendance to celebrate the start of the tournament.

“The infrastructure, proximity to the US, and Caymankind spirit of our people make the Cayman Islands a prime destination in the Caribbean for sports tourism efforts to thrive,” shared Mrs. Harris. “We are excited to be part of this tournament and look forward to welcoming future sports teams who will have the chance to experience first-hand the hospitality and logistical organisation our country offers in the sports market.”

The16-team tournament continues on throughout the week with games held at venues in Cayman Brac and in Grand Cayman. Entry to all matches is free and the public is encouraged to come out in support of the Cayman and visiting teams.

Caption: (L-R) Minister of Sports, Hon Osbourne Bodden; Speaker of the House, Hon Juliana O’Connor- Connolly; CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb and Minister of Tourism, Hon Moses Kirkconnell.