Alexandra School on Friday honoured two of their outstanding cricketers, Kemar Roach and Kirk Edwards.
They were recognized for achievements not only for the school but also for representing Barbados and the West Indies.
Principal Jeff Broomes lauded the achievements of the players before a packed school hall at morning assembly describing them as shining examples for all to follow.
“This morning I am extremely happy to be associated with this school and with these two young gentlemen who have made all of us proud,” a beaming Broomes said.
Relating that he had a long-lasting bond with them, Broomes recalled how he embedded in them the importance of education in addition to the outstanding skill in their chosen sport.
”I have always instilled in all of my students the importance of education and there would have been times where I would have had to deal with delicate matters pertaining to these two young gentlemen. But it was all for their good and now as you are well aware, they are beginning to reap the rewards.”
After presenting both players with tokens of appreciation, the principal noted that Roach and Edwards have become the second and third cricketers from the school to represent the West Indies, following in the footsteps of fast bowler Corey Collymore.
“Certainly the school continues to produce and no doubt these three gentlemen have set the example for all of you to follow. As a matter of fact despite being recently beaten in the Under-13 final at Kensington Oval, we still had the distinction of achieving the most individual awards in the tournament” Broomes said.
The players, whose parents were present, thanked the principal and the school for the kind gesture and hoped that what they had achieved thus far in their careers would be a guiding light for present students.
Roach, who made his Test debut in 2009 and was the second player after Collymore to play Test cricket, said it was always a joyous moment to return to his alma mater and share some of the “good old days” with the students.
”I have always enjoyed my days as a student at this school and always where possible, I love to come back and mingle with the students and give some words of encouragement.”
Edwards, the current Barbados captain who marked his Test debut last year against India with a century said that Broomes “had always recognized and demonstrated full care for the youngsters.”
“Initially, I actually struggled with my academics but managed to shrug off some early disappointments with the combination of hard work and full support from my family, my girlfriend and the guidance of Corey and Mwanghi Broomes, another past student.”
Both players were also full of praise for long-serving physical education teacher Peter Vaughn, who was unable to attend the function.
