Edwin Allen pressing on despite money worries

Despite the financial strain, principal of Edwin Allen High School Everton Walters says his administration remains committed to their girls athletics team’s quest to continue their dominance at the ISSA/ Grace Kennedy Girls’ Athletics Championship.

Walters told STAR Sports that the profile of the institution has grown significantly since the girls have been winning the Girls’ Champs title.

“Winning Champs has really impacted the school positively because it has made the school into a brand. Because of our success in track and field, a number of persons are now trying to get into the school. We have to be turning away many students who want to be a part of this school. I am quite pleased with my coaching staff, headed by Mr Michael Dyke,” Walters said. “But all though we have been winning Champs, there is no clear-cut line when it comes to sponsorships. We still struggle, and sometimes we ask the question, how does it impact on the school financially? It is a question that needs to be answered.”

Walters reckons that the school’s location may play a factor in them not being able to secure sponsorship for the athletics programme.

“We do not have many businesses in Frankfield, and the few that are here are not able to support the programme as we would want,” he said. “ The businesses in May Pen are giving their support to the schools which are closer to them and so we have to rely on our past students, and they do help, especially around Champs time.”

Edwin Allen is aiming for their sixth straight and seventh overall title this year.