Minister for Grand Bahama The Hon. Dr. Michael Darville encouraged basketball players participating in the Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy 16th Thanksgiving Basketball Tournament to exhibit their talents in a true spirit of sportsmanship. He was delivering welcoming remarks during the opening ceremony for the classic, held at Tabernacle school grounds on Wednesday morning.

Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Perry Gladstone Christie was in Grand Bahama to officially open the classic. Also participating in the opening ceremony were Minister of Tourism the Hon. Obadiah Wilchcombe and Minister of State for Finance the Hon. Michael Halkitis.

The tourney features U.S. based squads out of Tennessee and Georgia and local squads, including the C.I. Gibson Rattlers out of New Providence.

Since its inception the ‘Thanksgiving Basketball Classic’ has brought over 6,000 persons to the Island of Grand Bahama. Many of those who visited Grand Bahama for the tournament have come back for a honeymoon or a vacation.

When teams arrive they are treated to a cultural show and Bahamian food tasting. They are essentially given a Bahamian welcome.

“As Minister for Grand Bahama and Member of Parliament for Pineridge, it is my distinct pleasure to be a part of the opening ceremony for Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy’s 16th Thanksgiving Basketball Tournament,” the Minister said.

“I congratulate its pioneer, Mr. Norris Bain, for paving the way for an event of this magnitude to be held on Grand Bahama Island.

“Firstly, I would like to openly commend Mr. Bain for his contribution to the youth of Grand Bahama Island through academics and sports.

“Since its inception, this tournament has grown by leaps and bounds and has been utilized for a medium to assist numerous Grand Bahamians, who probably would not have the opportunity otherwise, to be showcased nationally and internationally,” he pointed out.

He welcomed coaches, players and well-wishers of the competitors who traveled from The United States and those from New Providence.

“I invite you to partake in all that Grand Bahama Island has to offer and I trust that you will enjoy our hospitality, cuisine and culture. Finally, to those young Bahamians who are participating in this tournament, I encourage you to play your best as you are being observed by some of the best coaches in the business. The game that you play today may determine your future. In addition, I want to remind you all of the importance of academics, as your grades will also help to determine the possibilities for scholarships,” he said.

The Minister commended Tabernacle on their success in the recent BGCSE examinations, and he wished each player the best as they exhibit their talent in the spirit of true sportsmanship.

The Bahamas – C.I. Gibson (Nassau), Jack Hayward High School (GB), St. Georges High School (GB), Sunland Baptist Academy (GB), Eight Mile Rock High School (GB) and Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy.

Prime Minister Christie and “Falcons” fans.

Tabernacle Baptist Christian Academy “Falcons” basketball team present award to Minister for Grand Bahama the Hon. Dr. Michael Darville.