Dozens of children and teenagers are swimming, playing football and having fun this summer, thanks to a special collaboration between the newly-formed Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) (Cayman chapter) and the Sports Office.

The first group of children braved the drizzle this morning to take part in the swimming programme, at the Lions Aquatic Centre. Registration is still open for the six YMCA/Sports Office summer camps – which include football, basketball and others.

These sessions are being offered at no cost to the children from six to 16 years old.

Expressing his appreciation of the organisation’s contribution, Sports Director Collin Anglin declared, “My office is especially grateful that the YMCA made the offer, as there were funding challenges for the holiday camps this year.”

The new YMCA board is a collection of well-known faces: local pastors, businessmen, government leaders, educators and volunteers.  One YMCA director, and hands-on leader, Mr. Jamal Young stated that his association offers, “wholesome sports evangelism, and exposes children to great life-skills through sports”.

Established as a charitable trust, the “Y”, as the group is commonly known, makes programmes available through fundraising and donations.  While it has already raised start-up funds, there will be continued campaigns to fund future initiatives.

To get details of summer activities, contact the Sports Office at 949-7082. For more information on the YMCA, or to make a contribution, call 916-7600, or visit ymcacayman.ky.

Photos (Credit: Information Officer Lennon Christian)

1. L-R) Swim coach Chester Hurlstone, Sports Director Collin Anglin and assistant Tevin Yen enjoy the first day of activities.

2. Swim students with (back row, L-R) Sports Director Colin Anglin, Coach Chester Hurlstone, YMCA Director Jamal Young and Coach Paula Swaby.

3. Students receive individual attention.