Pres' unveils new squash court

President Anthony Carmona, fourth from left, gets some assistance from RBC's managing director Darryl White, fourth from right, as he cuts the ribbon to officially open Presentation College San Fernando new squash court on Saturday. Photo: EDISON BAKER

Presentation College San Fernando unveiled their refurbished squash court on Saturday during their annual past pupils reunion titled rePRESent at the school's Carib Street, San Fernando compound. 

The squash court was opened in 1981 but was decommissioned in 2011 when a youth jumped from the top and went through the boards due to dampness from overhead and below. However, with the kind assistance of RBC Royal Bank and PREStige, who donated $150,000 and $180,000, respectively, along with another $60,000 from various kind-hearted donors, the school was able to upgrade to a state-of-the-art court.

One of only four squash courts in south Trinidad, the sealed off facility boasts new floating flooring, modern lighting and fully airconditioned with drainage installed. The refurbishing project was facilitated by contractors Tower Maintenance and Kong's Contractors.

Several dignitaries were in attendance at the opening ceremony, among them; President Anthony Carmona, Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi, RBC managing director and alumnus Darryl White, Fr Martin Sirju and college principal Dexter Mitchell. Following the ceremony, the court received its first test with an exhibition game featuring nine-tine national squash champion Colin Ramasra and national junior champ and 'Pres' student Nicholas Caddle.

Past Student Association president Steven Samlalsingh said it is hoped that the school will once again be the rich source of players for the national team as it was in its heyday.