Noble Preparatory Academy (NPA) founder and head basketball coach Geno Bullard, along with members of the basketball team and other students, brought the spirit of Christmas to the Ranfurly Homes for Children on Mackey Street last Wednesday, by making a donation including basketballs and other toys, and spending time with some of the children.
Bullard said that although he always stresses to his student-athletes about the importance of academics, he also wants them to know about citizenship and making a difference in the community.
"It was most important for us this holiday season to give back to our community and persons who are less fortunate," said Bullard. "Here at Noble Preparatory Academy, we believe in the total development of our student body whether it's academics, athletics or citizenship."
The theme behind the school's visit was to share the importance of having a dream, and being dedicated, disciplined and determined enough to turn those dreams into reality. Another key reason for the visit was to let the kids at the homes know that their situations don't determine who they are.
"It's the Christmas season, and we as the student body looked to lend a hand, and give back a little of what we gained at Noble Preparatory Academy," said NPA Head Girl Shinora Wright.
Bullard noted that the students activity in the community could be beneficial to them in the long run. When applying for a scholarship to college, community service is sometimes one of the key areas of a selection process.
NPA currently has two students (Livingston Bromwell and Shamar Burrows) in Canada on athletic exchange programs, and expects that number to dramatically increase over the next few years.
Delroy Grandison, one of the school's star basketball players last season, has also found a home in Canada, playing with Niagara College in Southern Ontario, Canada.
Bullard is one of the top basketball coaches in the country, and made the transition to academic administration when he started the school three years ago. He is also an international
recruiter for the entire Caribbean region for Niagara College. NPA has academic ties with Ridley and Niagara College and Brock University.
"We are always looking to help young men in the country to not only play basketball at a higher level, but receive the highest levels of education as well," said Bullard. "It is all about creating a total package - a student that is confident in his education, confident in his athletic ability and to able to present himself in a professional manner."
Bullard credits the art of finding a balance between sports and education as the main reason for the exchange program's success.
For those interested, Bullard encourages them to visit the school's website at www.npabahamas.com, check out their Facebook page - Noble Preparatory Academy Bahamas or call 676-0055 for more information.

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