BDO and the BVI Football Association Launch the 2023-24 BDO Schools Football League

In the words of Ryan Geluk, Managing Director of BDO in the British Virgin Islands, “It’s Christmas season for the youth footballers of the Territory” as the 2023-24 season of the BDO Schools Football League was launched with a press conference at the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports on 26 September 2023. 

Since 2012, BDO has been the title sponsor of the BDO Schools Football League which has grown progressively over the years to the premier grassroots development programs in the BVI.  

“Our partnership with the BVIFA to be the title sponsor the league began with a dream and vision between BDO and Andy Bickerton as president to support a program which developed teamwork in the youth and promoted getting children to get away from their screens and out in the open air to enjoy a sport that was enjoyed by us all,” stated Ryan Geluk.   

During the previous season, the BDO Schools Football League had over 550 children from across the territory in 4 divisions (U7, U9, U12 and High School open division) participating and enjoying the sport.  According to Coach Cass, the hope is that this year’s league will see that number matched or even exceeded, which schools from across the territory participating.   

“Wellness is important to BDO and teaching the children at a young age the importance of exercise and physical activity is critical to control obesity which has become a big health issue in the BVI.  We preach this to our staff, and it has also become the foundation in our partnership with the BVIFA.  The importance of this program has been seen with the recent successes of BVI football at the national and international level so we are proud as to the impact it has had,” continued Ryan. 

The league will commence with the annual Parade of Players on October 11th starting from the stoplights by the Government Administration Complex and ending with the Opening Ceremony on the A.O. Shirley Ground.  Parents are encouraged to support their children during the Parade and enjoy the Opening Ceremony.  The first matches slated to kick off on Monday, 16 October.  Matches will be played in Greenland, Capoons Bay and Virgin Gorda with the finals taking place in mid-January.   

For more information, please visit the BDO Schools Football League Facebook page or follow/use the hashtag #BDOSFL.  Enjoy watching the children having fun.  Support the children!