In a significant boost for Caribbean cricket development, the Dominica Cricket Academy has secured a substantial financial commitment of $67,500 from the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots franchise. The investment represents a portion of the academy’s annual sponsorship package aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and talent cultivation programs.
Senator Oscar George, Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, formally acknowledged the sponsorship during a recent interview. He emphasized that this contribution forms part of an ongoing partnership between the academy and the CPL franchise, highlighting the strategic importance of such collaborations in sports development.
“This financial injection to the tune of $67,500 constitutes partial fulfillment of the annual sponsorship commitment toward the Academy’s operations,” Minister George stated. “On behalf of the Ministry of Sports and the Government of Dominica, we express our sincere appreciation to the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots organization and particularly their Director, Mr. Mahesh Ramani, for their sustained support.”
The academy, recognized as Dominica’s premier cricket development institution, maintains a comprehensive program focused on identifying and nurturing emerging talent through technical training, specialized coaching, and holistic mentorship. Its facilities include a modern indoor training center that enables uninterrupted practice sessions regardless of weather conditions.
Over its years of operation, the academy has produced several distinguished cricketers who have advanced to regional and international competitions, including Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Stephen Pascal, and Arsenio Fontaine. Minister George underscored the institution’s profound impact on Dominican sports, noting: “The Academy has consistently delivered substantial positive contributions to our sporting ecosystem.”
The Minister characterized the Patriots’ investment as crucial for sustaining the academy’s mission, adding that such corporate partnerships play a vital role in shaping cricket’s future across the Eastern Caribbean region. The funding will directly support enhanced training programs, facility maintenance, and expanded recruitment initiatives to identify promising young athletes across the island.