Under-15 football competition takes on bullying
(CNS): The West Bay Sports Foundation (WBSF), which is organising the Cayman Airways Invitational Youth Football Cup being held this month, has launched an anti-bullying campaign ahead of the tournament. The “Say No to Bullying” initiative utilises social media and is open to all local primary schools to help raise awareness about the problem.
The WBSF introduced the anti-bullying theme to the under-15 tournament as it was felt that an event involving more than 300 young participants would be the right platform to bring light to the serious issue of bullying.
“Football being the universal language it is, brings nations together, and the Cayman Airways Invitational Youth Football Cup is a testament to this as it involves 12 participating teams, with 11 of them coming from countries such as the UK, US, and across the Caribbean and Latin America to be amongst our very own Cayman Islands,” said WBSF member Deena Rivers.
She explained that the teams would be included in the “Say No to Bullying” campaign, which comprises a social media competition.
“The WBSF is passionate about involving our local primary schools and giving our children a voice,” Rivers added.
Students are invited to participate in the “Ultimate Instagram Competition”, @CaymanU15Cup, by leaving a comment with #YOURSCHOOLNAME. Each comment counts for one vote. Voting started Monday, 2 May and runs through 9 May.
The primary school with the highest percentage of participating student votes will receive $500 towards their school PTA.
The winning school will be announced at the tournament’s opening on 10 May at Truman Bodden Sports Complex during the half-time break of the Houston Dynamo vs Cuba Federation game, which kicks off at 5pm.
“We encourage all; students, parents, teachers, family and friends to come out and show your support in the efforts being made by the WBSF to help eradicate the vicious cycle of bullying amongst our young people,” Rivers said. “Attend the games and wear something pink to show your stance against bullying.”
The under-15 teams participating in the tournament are English sides Manchester City FC and Swindon Town FC; Major League Soccer (MLS) academy teams Seattle Sounders, LA Galaxy, Houston Dynamo, DC United and Orlando City FC; IMG Academy from Florida, US; Cuba Federation National Under-15 Team; Club Deportivo Victoria from Honduras; Cavalier Soccer Club from Jamaica; and local side Academy Sports Club Select.
For more information, visit the Youth Football Cup website or like their Facebook page for updates
