BFA, Ministry of Education & FIFA Break Ground on New Soccer Pit at Columbus Primary School

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Bahamas Football Association (BFA), in partnership with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), recently held a groundbreaking ceremony at Columbus Primary School for the construction of a new soccer pit, signaling another major investment in youth and school sport development.

The event, which took place on October 4, 2025, brought together key representatives from all three organizations and the education community to mark the start of this collaborative project.

Leading the ceremony were The Hon. Glenys Hanna Martin, Minister of Education; Frederick Lunn, BFA General Secretary; Carl Lynch Jr., BFA Deputy General Secretary; Bruce Swan, Technical Director; Jordan Victoire, Lead, FIFA Regional Office; André Moss, Projects and Infrastructure; and Walter Holleran, Senior Infrastructure Manager.

Also in attendance were Crystal Strachan, Education Officer for the Sports Unit (MOE); Floyd Armbrister, Consultant of Sports (MOE); Carlton Adderley, Construction – Future Titan Development; Annie Cartwright, Director of Security; Oria Wood Knowles, Deputy Director of Sports (MOE); Romero Mortimer, Contractor; and Ayo Martin, grandson of Minister Hanna Martin.

Although BFA President Anya James was unable to attend, she expressed her full support and appreciation for the collaboration between the Ministry of Education, FIFA, and the BFA.

“I’m proud of the teamwork that brought this project to life,” said President James. “Creating opportunities like this helps our children grow, stay active, and develop the kind of character that football teaches so well.”

Strengthening the Connection Between Education and Sport

The project forms part of FIFA’s global Arena initiative, which aims to build at least 1,000 mini-pitches worldwide, particularly in communities and schools with limited access to sports facilities. These pitches provide safe and sustainable spaces for children to play while introducing technology integration for streaming and match analysis to enhance safety, education, and performance review.

The Columbus Primary School project underscores FIFA’s commitment to development through football and demonstrates the BFA’s dedication to providing Bahamian youth with quality infrastructure that supports education, recreation, and growth.

BFA Technical Director Bruce Swan noted that the soccer pit would serve as a model for future school-based facilities across the country.

“Facilities like this create a bridge between education and sport. When young people can learn, play, and grow in safe spaces, we all win, schools, communities, and the game itself.”

The Hon. Glenys Hanna Martin, Minister of Education, also lauded the initiative.

“We are proud to partner with the BFA and FIFA on this project. It is through collaboration that we create the environment where our students can thrive both academically and athletically.”