Plans to restructure the National Sports Council have led to a temporary pause in primary school sports tournaments. These annual events, which see schools competing in various sports at regional and national levels, are a highlight for many young athletes. Minister of Sports Anthony Mahler informed News Five on Saturday that while the tournaments are expected to resume by the end of the year, the current setup cannot continue as it is. The restructuring aims to improve the organization and effectiveness of these beloved events.
Anthony Mahler, Minister of Sports
“We want to adjust the finances, adjust those programs. WE have some ideas on how we can improve those programs. But also, to me the biggest fall off in sports in Belize is in high school. There is a lack of competition in Belize, a lack of proper training, there is a lack of facilities. Victor Galvez in Cayo, we have invested in a brand new court, so they have a brand-new hard wood court down there for that stadium and we will continue to invest, but the program has to be focused and have to have some goals to say we will achieve these things.”
Paul Lopez
“So, will primary schools sports be held this year?”
Anthony Mahler
“We are putting it on pause for now and then we will reboot soon. Hopefully we can start the tournaments in October and November, when we restructure the national sports council and the finances.”
Paul Lopez
“So it is about restructuring. What was happening that was causing it to be chaotic or inefficient?”
Anthony Mahler
“Well, I am not saying it was chaotic or inefficient. It was just status quo and status quo does not work for me, status quo does not work for Minister Daly.”