BEYOND SPORTS, DR. ALBERT-POYOTTE OUTLINED ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN BABONNEAU.
The Babonneau Cricket Team has secured a momentous victory in the Prime Minister's T20 Cricket Competition, sending shockwaves of excitement through the community. The team's triumph in a thrilling final against Castries Central culminated in a victory that earned them both the prestigious trophy and a cash prize of $25,000.
Hon. Dr. Virginia Albert-Poyotte, Parliamentary Representative for Babonneau, was quick to express her pride in the team's performance. She praised the players for their dedication and tenacity throughout the competition.
"It is with immense pride that I join the Babonneau constituency in celebrating the cricket team's outstanding achievement," Dr. Albert-Poyotte said. "Their perseverance and commitment to excellence have been nothing short of inspiring, and I congratulate them wholeheartedly for securing this victory."
The Parliamentary Representative highlighted the importance of long-term investments in sport development within Babonneau, pointing to the strides made in supporting cricket and football. She credited the team’s success to these initiatives, which include the annual Parliamentary Representative Cricket Tournament—a competition that has attracted 19 teams over the past two years.
"As Parliamentary Representative, I have been unwavering in my support for cricket and football," Dr. Albert-Poyotte remarked. "Through initiatives such as the annual cricket tournament, we have nurtured local talent and built a foundation for future success. Financial support of up to $10,000 has also been provided to help teams prepare and organize."
The Member of Parliament also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the sports infrastructure in Babonneau. "The constituency is fortunate to have four major playing fields—two for cricket and two for football. The fencing of the Babonneau playing field, adjacent to the Babonneau Secondary School, is nearing completion, offering students and the community new opportunities for sporting and public events," she explained.
In addition to the Babonneau field, work is progressing on the La Guerre playing field, which will cater to track and field, football, and cricket. Improvements are also underway at the Des Barres playing field, which will focus primarily on cricket. Dr. Albert-Poyotte noted that these upgrades are vital, particularly given the growing interest from international cricket players visiting Babonneau.
Dr. Albert-Poyotte also welcomed the Hon. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre’s initiative to introduce a professional cricket league, a move she believes will provide local cricketers with more opportunities to develop their skills and progress in the sport, similar to the advancements made in football.
Beyond sports, Dr. Albert-Poyotte outlined a host of ongoing community development initiatives in Babonneau, including the construction of new toilet facilities in Des Barres and Fond Assau, as well as continued work on the Balata playing field. The representative also revealed plans to elevate Babonneau to town status, further enhancing the community’s infrastructure and amenities.
"We are advancing key projects like a new smart health center, expanded business facilities, and improved road networks to ensure Babonneau continues to flourish," Dr. Albert-Poyotte said. "My commitment to addressing the needs of our people remains unwavering, and I will continue to work tirelessly for the betterment of this vibrant constituency."
As the celebrations continue in Babonneau, the community looks forward to a future rich in sporting achievements and continued growth, both on and off the field.