The 2024-2025 BDO Schools Football League kicked off with a festive parade and official ceremony on Wednesday, October 30, showcasing the enthusiasm of over 100 students from schools across the British Virgin Islands.
The event began at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park in Road Town, Tortola, and proceeded along Waterfront Drive and Walter James Francis Drive, ending with a loop around the track at the A. O. Shirley Recreation Ground.
Following the parade, an opening ceremony featured remarks from officials of the BVI Football Association (BVIFA) and platinum sponsors BDO, CCT, and 284 Media, who expressed their excitement for the league and commitment to supporting youth sports.
BVIFA President Avanell Morton thanked the sponsors and addressed the young players on the value of teamwork in football, noting the league as a cornerstone for developing unity and discipline among student-athletes.
BDO Managing Director Ryan Geluk voiced his excitement, emphasizing his company’s long-standing support of the league, which has been in place for over a decade.
CCT’s Chief Executive Officer, Averad Penn, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the league’s role in cultivating future national players and fostering a love for football in the territory.
Education Officer Renee Weston, representing the Ministry of Education, Youth Affairs and Sports, spoke on the Ministry’s support for the league, noting its importance for character development and sporting growth among students.
BVIFA’s new Technical Director, Paul Decle, expressed pride in the focus and investment being made in youth football, acknowledging the impact of strong backing from BVIFA and the league’s sponsors.
The first official games are set to commence on Monday, November 4at the Greenland Football Stadium and the Althea Scatliffe school grounds.