Who altered Inter-Primary School Football scorecard?

From where I stood, the determination and passion of the little boys and girls participating in the 2024 Inter-Primary School Football Tournament were evident. It was a thrilling experience for many. However, I feel compelled to address a troubling issue that has lingered on my mind.

For the first time in our football history, the Richland Park SDA Primary School participated in the tournament — a commendable milestone. This showcased the integration of camaraderie while fostering spiritual and social interactions within the community.

As I eagerly awaited the quarterfinal results, I noticed that Richland Park SDA primary did not advance. By Game 5, the official scoreboard (see photo above) displayed that the team had tied with Sion Hill Government School, with both teams winning four games and losing one each. At this stage, Sugar Mill Academy was in fourth position. If Richland Park SDA drew one of their remaining games and the same outcome occurred for the opposing team, how could the opposing team still lead Richland Park SDA in points? Note that both teams shared points in the final match, which was not played. This scenario appears puzzling, right?

Fast forward: in an attempt to resolve all queries, the teams were informed that quarterfinal qualification would be based on point standings. Although Richland Park SDA was reportedly ahead on points, subsequent findings suggested otherwise. Exhibit B shows the points gained during the match between Sugar Mill and Pamelus Burke Government, which ended in a 2–2 draw. This score was confirmed by a Sports Department Facebook post on Oct. 31 (see photo below). Interestingly, this game became a bone of contention. Game 5 points table clearly shows four schools gaining 1 point from games drawn.

My investigation reveals that the game in which Richland Park Government and Sugar Mill drew is not recorded on the points table because they came after Game 5. So which school did Sugar Mill draw against at that point? Why did the points table and the game scores presented by the Sports Department share the correct information but the questionable match card says differently?

You may be wondering how I know all of this. I am a very involved parent. I am an ardent believer that the school and the home must work together for the child’s success.

However, questions are still looming: who altered the records by removing the name of the Pamelus Burke Primary player who scored the second goal (the same player who scored the first) against Sugar Mill? Why was this dishonesty allowed to stand? That decision placed Sugar Mill ahead of Richland Park SDA, advancing them to the quarterfinals on Friday.

Imagine the disappointment and confusion of the children at Richland Park SDA when they realise the truth. How damaging it would be to their confidence and trust in the system! Who will take responsibility for this injustice? Who will compensate these young players for the opportunity unfairly taken from them?

There is undoubtedly a glaring disconnect between the Ministry of Education and the Sports Department, upon which school sports depend. This disconnect leaves children as victims of incompetence, unprofessionalism, and poor communication among adults pursuing their own agendas. These are young, impressionable minds being directed toward positive activities, yet they are made to suffer due to adult incompetence and disingenuousness.

Let this serve as a wake-up call: never punish children because of our folly. Do better by our children. They deserve fairness, transparency, and accountability.

A Footballer’s Parent

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