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Mon, Mar

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THE UNIVERSITY of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) football team is back competing in the CNG National Super League, under the guidance of former national captain Clayton “JB” Morris.

The return proved to be an exciting one that ended in a two-all draw with Petit Valley United last week under the lights of the Northern Recreation Ground in Diego Martin. 

The university men found themselves trailing 0-2 and battled back to share the points thanks to goals from Nyron Jones and Ricaldo Castellano. 

Morris, who will always be remembered as the captain of the “Strike Squad” that came within one point of qualifying for the 1990 World Cup, explained that the team had just recently started training under him. 

“About three weeks ago we completed screenings of footballers in the UTT Academy of Sport Scholarship programme,” he said. 

“I am proud of how the guys have adapted, handled the pressure and showed fighting spirit. Like most coaches, our intention is to win the League, but we are definitely aiming for a top three finish.” Director of UTT ’s Academy of Sport, Daren Ganga was at the venue to support his team and offer a brief motivational half-time talk. 

The former Test cricketer gave specifics of the university’s football scholarship programme. “UTT offers a sound sport and academic programme in various sporting disciplines. Our football programme allows players an opportunity to not only gain educational qualifications, but train at the highest semi-professional level.

“Not to be biased, but we offer a bit more than Pro League, Super League and even foreign university teams. 

Our footballers have their own top-class training field, excellent gym facilities, qualified coaches, trainers, physiotherapists and administrators. Additionally, accommodation, transport, meals and equipment such as football boots and uniforms are provided.” The UTT Academy programme is arguably one of the better options for players coming out of the Secondary Schools League. 

Ganga said that from providing an opportunity to play while furthering their education, a significant amount of leeway is offorded the students.

“Since we are playing in the CNG National Super League, our model is even more conducive for providing selectors with future national Under-20 and Under-23 players,” he explained. 

“UTT ’s student/ athlete contract even allows footballers to attend trials, should a professional club come knocking. So who knows, when the League ends in December, a few players may be able to finish the season with a Pro League team, on loan; provided their studies are not hampered.”