By: Tito Chapman
The Empire Sports Club based in Hanley’s Road Gingerland, is celebrating its 40th year of existence with a series of activities.
On Saturday 16th November the club hosted an Award Ceremony and Cocktail to recognise long standing members, corporate sponsors, social partners and past key personnel. The event was held at the NEPAC Courtyard.
The brief ceremony was chaired by Hon. Eric Evelyn, President of the club.
He has served as President for the last 19 years. Evelyn spoke of the exploits of the club. Since becoming a full Community organization, they have hosted the Aquatic Extravaganza on the Waterfront during the Summer’s Greatest Lime, Culturama. This year was the 7th consecutive year the club has hosted the event.
So far, the club has worshipped together, hosted health screenings, visted the sick and shut-ins, hosted a mini cricket festival and distribute gift packages. Upcoming events include Community Day, (November 23), Seniors Outing and the popular 35 and over dance, (to be held on December 7).
President Evelyn echoed:
We have continued to demonstrate our commitment to serve community and country.
On hand to address the gathering, was long standing member of the club, Franklyn Browne, Deputy Premier, Alexis Jeffers and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development, Keith Glasgow.
Franklyn Browne gave a history of the Empire Cricket in its early days.
Browne reminsced on two special occasions during his 40 year tenure. He spoke about a game between Empire and Alvan Rovers, (1982) from the St. James area. Empire needing 122 to win were struggling at 48/9.
According to Franklyn, Denzil Browne and Raymond Maynard took their team to 128-9, a memorable victory that only the score books could prove.
His other special occasion came during the years 1994-1998 when Empire won five straight Championships. During two of those years in between, Empire won the Second Division Title.
Before closing, a moment of silence was observed for fallen players: Errol Slack, John Evelyn, Raymond Maynard and Bransen Lanns.
Deputy Premier Jeffers and PS Glasgow congratulated the club for its continued service to the community.
Jeffers commended Mr. Evelyn and the entire Hanley’s Road Community because as he said, “Empire, is still here at 40.”
The club emerged from humble beginnings in Hanley’s Road as cricket organization dedicated to improving the cricketing skills of members; today they are now a fully fledged community organisation aimed at honing leadership, networking and sporting skills of members.
The Empire Sports club has established itself as one of the most successful sporting entities on the island of Nevis.
Long standing members that were awarded:
– Franklyn Browne
– Errol Sommersall
– Colin Mills
– Curtis Dore
The full list of awardees:
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