AS the Jamaica Volleyball Association (JaVA) continues in its effort to transform volleyball into a major sport in Jamaica, the local governing body has entered into a partnership with New York-based organisation, Venom Sports. Venom Sports’ stated mission is to bring structured, organised sporting programmes to the inner-city communities of Jamaica, with the aim of not only bringing hope for a brighter future, but also to break the back of division and strife between rival communities.

The organisation also lists as its objectives to reach those most vulnerable to gang-related activities and teenage pregnancies, as well as to create extraordinary athletes to the benefit of not only to the individual, but to the wider community.

Major Warrenton Dixon, president of JaVA, stated that the mission and objectives of Venom Sports fits very synergistically with those of JaVA, which is centred on contributing to national athletic pride through the achievement of excellence in volleyball at all levels.

“We (JaVA) have a strong desire to win, not only matches, but to win the hearts and minds or our players at all levels, their families, friends and communities. Taking steps that will enrich the lives of people, particularly in some troubled communities, is one of the ways we want to invest in Jamaica and we will support anyone or organisation who seeks to do so,” said Major Dixon.

RA Vernon, president and CEO of Venom Sports, in commenting on the partnership with JaVA, said that he was truly pleased with how closely Venom’s vision aligned with that of JaVA.

“Our passion for the sports and our desire to assist youth, particularly those in less fortunate situations, reach their fullest potential in sports will be the foundation of an exciting future. Although Venom Sports is a multi-sports organisation, I see the sport of volleyball as a fantastic opportunity for the youth of Jamaica.

“In the United States, volleyball was a somewhat dormant sport for years. Currently, it is one of the fastest growing sports. Many children are learning life-long skills that transcend sports. Many of them also gain college entry via scholarships. I want to help bring these skill sets and opportunities to Jamaica. I believe that the venture with JaVA will help to solidify our commitment to Jamaica’s youth, families and communities. It will also provide an ongoing talent stream into the national programme, which will strengthen Jamaica’s position internationally.”

Michelle Antoni, Venom Sports’ vice-president of Caribbean Affairs, stated that Venom Sports welcomed the alliance with JaVA. “Our thrust is to create extraordinary athletes with not only local tournament experience, but also international experience. This can only strengthen our standing as a sporting organisation and aid in the development of the national programme.

“Venom Sports is committed to training young people between the ages five through to 18 in the skills and fundamentals of volleyball and other sporting activities, with the aim of creating younger, more talented and more experienced players. A Venom athlete is a total athlete. They are not only expected to shine on court, but academically, keeping their grades at an above average level so that they can take advantage of scholarship opportunities when they are presented.”

The current initiative with Venom Sports is in the Delacree Park community, where children from age five through 18 are undergoing volleyball training on Saturdays and Sundays. National senior male team head coach Steve Davis and Major Dixon have been instrumental in providing the children with technical instructions.

Three girls and two boys from this initiative were invited to be a part of the National Under-13 training programme that was launched by JaVA last Saturday. The future intention of Venom Sports and JaVA is to move the Delacree model into other inner-city communities.