In a strategic move to fortify community relations, the Couva Police Station Community Council (CPSCC) has successfully orchestrated a youth football tournament that brought together young athletes from across central Trinidad. The event, held at Caldrac Grounds in California on November 30, served as both a sporting competition and a crime prevention initiative.
Bishop Ezekiel Clarke, CPSCC president, emphasized the dual purpose of the sporting venture: ‘Our youth represent one of our primary focus groups. This tournament isn’t just about football—it’s about steering young people away from criminal pathways and nurturing them into exemplary citizens.’ Clarke shares leadership responsibilities with Inspector Khan of the Couva Police, both envisioning expanded volunteer services in the coming years.
The CPSCC operates as an elected advisory body comprising both law enforcement officials and civilian representatives. Its mandate encompasses providing advisory support to police, organizing community enrichment programs, promoting culturally sensitive engagements, and supporting crime prevention efforts across multiple communities including Couva, Lisas Gardens, California, Dow Village, and several other regions.
Golden Tigers Football Academy from Dow Village, California, dominated the competition under coach Edna St. Louis, securing championship titles in both Under-17 and Under-13 divisions. The academy’s Kern Pollard claimed Under-17 Most Valuable Player honors, while teammate Elijah Austin achieved a remarkable double victory in the Under-13 category, earning both MVP and Top Scorer awards.
Organizers extended gratitude to the events committee, volunteers, sponsors, coaches, parents, and community residents whose collective efforts ensured the tournament’s resounding success. The event demonstrated how athletic competition can serve as a powerful vehicle for community building and youth development.