Chris Gayle Academy Celebrates Graduates

Last Wednesday night, Chris Gayle and other members of the sporting fraternity congregated at the Negril suite of The Jamaica Pegasus hotel for the presentation of the 2015 graduates and fundraising dinner for the Chris Gayle Academy.

The Chris Gayle Academy provides sporting opportunities for males between the ages of 16-22 who cannot afford it, using cricket as a fundamental tool for their professional and personal growth and development. For this, the academy's first year, they have produced 20 successful graduates who were honoured at the ceremony.

All stood at attention as the national anthem played in the cinemas was shown, and those who were present beamed with pride at the endless possibilities that life could offer for these hopeful young men.

master of ceremonies

Michael Hall functioned as the night's master of ceremonies, smoothly steering the graduation ship. As guests enjoyed dinner, they took pleasure in a video presentation which included the graduates speaking of their experience at the academy. After dinner, the graduates were presented with their certificate of completion and special awards.

Representing the graduating class, Javian McFarlane, expressed joy in being a part of such a significant occasion. He noted that the academy had made them not only great cricketers, but better individuals,

leaders, and members of society. He thanked the coaches, the academy mothers, families, Chris Gayle and the sponsors for their dedication and support throughout their journey.

Making special appearances for the night were keynote speaker Dr Julian Cresser, lecturer at the University of the West Indies, who offered words of wisdom to the young hopefuls; international West Indies cricketer, Chris Gayle, who was in high spirits and was living proof that you can achieve if you believe; as well as Radcliffe Haynes, director of the Chris Gayle Foundation, who highlighted the great accomplishments all were present to witness.

krysta.anderson@

gleanerjm.com