The Tribune

By BRENT STUBBS

Senior Sports Reporter

bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

AFTER turning the Government Secondary Schools Sports Association around over the last two years, Varel Davis was rewarded as she was returned as president for her second two-year term in office.

At the annual general meeting and election of officers yesterday, Davis - a physical education teacher at CH Reeves - beat out Trevor Grant from CR Walker 12-2 for the top post.

"I feel good. I still have a lot of work to finish," Davis told The Tribune. "Like the saying goes, your work should speak for you. When I took over the association, our finances weren't looking good. It was in the negative.

"But the past two years was a plus. I got to introduce a lot of things in terms of cheering and the cross country, which was a plus. But I really want to get away from the trophies and present championship rings to our seniors and have an end of the year banquet when we recognise all of our top student-athletes, schools, coaches and even sponsors.."

Three new officers were elected with Kendal Campbell from TA Thompson as first vice president, Shekeira Farrington is the second vice president and Fiona Tucker from DW Davis is the assistant secretary.

Returning to office along with Davis is Keisha Pratt from RM Bailey, still the secretary, Tia Rolle from CR Walker is treasurer and Terrance King of HO Nash is the assistant treasurer.

"I feel good about this slate because most of my officers, who worked with me over the past two years to get the association back up and running to a respectable level are back," Davis pointed out.

"We have some new persons like Mr Campbell and Shekeira, who all work very well. We have a very good young executive team, except for Mr King, who you need to bring that experience and solid advice."

With the team in place, Davis said they intend to push the GSSSA to another level. They are looking at starting the season on October 2 with volleyball.

"It should be an exciting year. Teams are preparing," Davis added. "I think the level of competition will improve because of what we saw from the teams last year."

One of the things, if not the most important one, that Davis and her executives hope to further implement this year is the maintenance of a certain grade point average for all student-athletes in order for them to be eligible to graduate.

"We can't just watch these athletes lave school with credentials," Davis stated. "We will seriously be looking at how we can ensure that they graduate with a certain GPA. It's a must."