Page 41 - Team TTO PARIS 2024

Early mornings, lots of driving, and in many cases a scramble for
Early mornings, lots of driving, and in many cases a scramble for
funds to ensure their children have equipment and can compete in
funds to ensure their children have equipment and can compete in
tournaments locally and abroad. Most parents want nothing more
tournaments locally and abroad. Most parents want nothing more
than to see their children succeed, Nicole Duke-Westfield tells the
than to see their children succeed, Nicole Duke-Westfield tells the
story of parents who sacrifice a lot to support their children’s
story of parents who sacrifice a lot to support their children’s
sporting dreams.
sporting dreams.
FOR THE LOVE OF

THE KIDS

It’s 5am in the middle of the week, a boy is doing laps at the In the pursuit of excellence in competitive sport, parents
Flying Fish Swimming Pool, Federation Park in the suburbs play a vital role, navigating the highs and lows alongside
of Port of Spain. There are a few other boys and girls, their aspiring athlete. It can be a tough journey to the top of
preparing to join in the routine as their coach gives the medal podium. For parents, a most rewarding
instructions. A few parents are sitting in the bleachers. It’s experience is witnessing their child's achievements and
a school day so some of them are holding their children’s milestones.
school uniforms, for when they finish their training and
need to get ready. Whether it's scoring the winning goal, breaking a personal
record, or earning a spot on a competitive team, what
This is a scenario Mark and Candice Rivas know all too parent doesn’t beam with pride and joy when it happens?
well, as their sons, Christiano and Giovanni swim
competitively with the Rivas Titans Swim Team. Mark Past President of the National Basketball Federation of
coaches his sons who are multiple medal holders from Trinidad and Tobago, and owner/founder of Spartans TT,
several regional and local meets including the Pan Am, Garvin Warwick agrees that parental support is essential.
Carifta and Goodwill Games.
“Parents play a crucial role in the development of their kids
As their boys began swimming at a young age, Candice in sport, offering the emotional support, encouragement,
and Mark, like many parents of children involved in and guidance needed to foster their growth, resilience, and
competitive sport, have had their share of triumphs and passion in sport. Parental support is also essential for
challenges. young athletes, as it provides the foundation for their

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