A section of the participants ofSecurity Forces FCCrime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp 2023

Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, July 28, 2023 (Press Secretary, PMO) – The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis through the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and St Kitts Nevis Defence Force, in partnership with local and international stakeholders, successfully organized the Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp 2023, at the Dr. William Connor Primary School grounds, under the theme, ‘Creating an Atmosphere for Growth and Development to Achieve Excellence.’ 

The two-week camp, which garnered overwhelming participation from the community, aimed to engage young minds through sports, impart valuable life skills, and foster a safer environment while combatting the challenges posed by crime.

The Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp witnessed an impressive enrollment of over 100 children from various communities across Saint Kitts and Nevis. Children of different age groups, ranging from age five (5) to twenty-two years, were warmly welcomed to the camp, ensuring inclusivity and an opportunity for all to participate in this exciting initiative.

(L-R front row) Deputy Commissioner of Police Cromwell Henry; Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew; and Camp’s Coordinator and Organizer, Inspector John Bergan

The Camp’s Coordinator and Organizer, Inspector John Bergan, in his remarks, stated, “This inaugural crime intervention initiative was conceptualized just over a month and a half ago when I was introduced to a gentleman at my office at the Sandy Point Magistrate Court by one of the parents who has two sons in our grassroots program. Dr. Isaac Newton heard about our program and after explaining some of the challenges we were encountering, right there and then he decided to reach out to his global network. While at my office, he made a call to one of our international guests here today, Mr. Beresford Mack, who began to reach out to his contacts in the US and UK. I took the initiative to our club, and we all decided to host this community policing outreach program, to engage youths across the Federation”.

Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew delivering brief remarks at the Security Forces United FC Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp 

Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic response to the camp, stating, “The Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp represents a powerful tool in our efforts to combat crime and nurture the potential of our youth. I did not hesitate when Inspector John Bergan, spoke to me about the camp to quickly assist with the necessary financial support. By creating a safe and empowering environment through sports and education, we can steer our young generation toward a brighter future filled with possibilities. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the organizers, mentors, and sponsors who made this camp a resounding success.”

The camp focuses on nurturing not only soccer skills, but also instilling core values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. Coaches and mentors emphasized the importance of education, respect, and responsible citizenship, empowering the young participants to become well-rounded individuals.

In collaboration with local community leaders, the camp integrated targeted crime intervention programs. These initiatives sought to raise awareness about the impact of crime on society and provided resources and guidance to prevent youth involvement in illegal activities.

The Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp initiative allows coaches from the United States of America to identify talented young soccer players on the island with the aim to recruit players for athletic scholarships at colleges and high schools in the USA.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis remains steadfast in its commitment to providing opportunities for growth and development to its young citizens. The Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp 2023 serves as a testament to the nation’s determination to invest in the potential of its youth, creating a pathway to excellence and positively shaping the future of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

Through innovative programs like the Crime Intervention Summer Soccer Camp, the government strives to empower young minds, combat crime, and foster a culture of excellence and achievement for a brighter and more prosperous nation.