Pari students close BSP’s junior cricket programme

LESS than 100 Pari Elementary School students competed in cricket to end Bank South Pacific Financial Group Limited’s (BSP) 2021 junior programme at Amini Park in Port Moresby yesterday.
BSP’s School Kriket Blasts are held quarterly in selected regions.
This year, the initiative has seen more than 25,000 students participate in the coaching clinics led by Cricket PNG regional managers and coordinators.
The blasts introduce children from as early as elementary school to cricket, teaching the basics such as the rules, batting, bowling and fielding.
The blasts are held in the National Capital District, Central, Northern, Milne Bay, Morobe, Madang, Western Highlands, Eastern Highlands, Jiwaka, Southern Highlands and West New Britain.
Involving over 50 schools nationwide, the programme has reached more than 200,000 elementary and primary school students in PNG.
BSP corporate sponsorship manager Amelia Minnopu said: “Over the years, BSP has been supporting School Kriket in developing upcoming cricket talents.
“We have done so again this year with a sponsorship of K400,000 towards the programme.
“The programme has continued to be successful and has helped develop new skills for young people as they progress in school.
“Staying true to the objective and support since 2009, the programme has produced skilled cricketers who have represented the country in international events.
“Our partnership with Cricket PNG has been rewarding for both organisations.
“We applaud the efforts of Cricket PNG in making the programme a success each year and in being recognised globally, and the schools that embraced the programme.”
Meanwhile, Pari Elementary School ended its sporting activities for the year.
School sports master Nou Vagi told The National that it was a first for many of his students who took part in the programme.
“They were excited to finish the programme outside the school and it was a chance for them to play on a standard surface,” he said.
“We have our village competition in which some of our students take part, but this environment is one of the more exciting places that they are enjoying.
“It has been an exciting year for our students to learn new skills in the game.”