Cricket in Bernard Jr’s DNA

David Bernard Jr is known worldwide as a former Windies all-rounder; but like many young Caribbean boys, this love for cricket and all it entails did not come overnight. Bernard explained that his love for the game stems from childhood, but came to fruition when he began playing for his high school.

"I've been playing cricket since I was a child, but my first competitive game was for Jamaica College in 1992," Bernard shared.

He said playing for his alma mater was a once in a lifetime experience.

Bernard believes every child, once a fan of cricket, should learn the sport.

"At Jamaica College, it was a great experience playing cricket," he said. "I played through all the age-group levels and playing cricket at school was something I really enjoyed."

The game of cricket is indelibly stamped in Bernard's DNA as his father, David Bernard Sr is a physical trainer to a myriad of Jamaican cricket teams and the Jamaica Cricket Association, as well as a competent player.

Bernard's grandfather was also an avid player of the game.

Bernard says the tradition of loving the game is one that will continue to remain with him, as he feels a sense of euphoria once on the pitch.

"On the cricket pitch, depending on the situation, you can have different feelings, but being on the pitch, in general, gave me a feeling of enjoyment and freedom of expression," he said.

His love also transcends the pitch, as Bernard is now the certified coach of the Jamaica Under-17 team.

"I have a great love and appreciation for the sport from childhood, so I enjoy watching, while my team excels and others play," he shared.

Life Lessons

After an illustrious career as an all-rounder, Bernard has learnt numerous values from the game, as well as life lessons.

"Playing the sport has taught me that in life, there will be successes and failures, but it is important to not lose yourself to either," he said.

Although he no longer represents Jamaica, Bernard said he plays in local competitions focused on developing communities. He played in the 2017 SDC/Wray & Nephew National T20 Competition for Greater Portmore.

"I was always being asked by my friend Germain Gordon to play for Greater Portmore whenever I am available, because I was always registered as part of the team," he said. "I was available to play in 2017, so I decided to."