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Speaking on the occassion of the Spiders basketball exhibitiion game held recently at the Tacarigua Sports Arena, the Minister publicly paid tribute to the Triniweb Spiders Basketball Club for its innitiative in organising the "Chance of a lifetime" program.

The following is the full text of Dr. Griffith's address:

"I am extremely heartened to attend today's Basketball Exhibition Game and to have been asked to deliver the Opening Remarks at this event. Let me first extend to all of you, warm greetings for the New Year, on behalf of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. I also thank Triniweb Srevices limited for their kind invitation and the opportunity to "Tip off" this game.

Today's event, is a golden opportunity for our young basketball players to showcase their skills to the national community. This is indeed a proud moment for these sportsmen and I refer to the sportsmen on both teams.

On this note, I would like to publicly pay tribute to the Triniweb Spiders Basketball Club which initiated in 1998 the "Chance of A Lifetime programme." I commend their initiative and foresight in organising this programe which is aimed primarily at placing some of our finest basketball talents at suitable United States Universities/Colleges on scholarship.

In light of this, mention must be made of the sterling contribution by the Basketball Club for the overall development of the youth in this country. As you know, this Club is officially located in Arima for which I have the honour to serve as Member of Parliament.

It is therefore not unusual, that today, I experience a deep sense of pride, as I reflect on the progress and success that has been achieved. I therefore take the opportunity to congratulate the Triniweb Spiders Basketball Club for their success and to express my deep appreciation of their efforts.

Basketball is increasingly growing in popularity, as a sport, in this country. I feel, that basketball is not just a game; it is a sport. For many of our youth, Basketball, is synonymous with names like, Rodman and Jordan. What is perhaps most outstanding about these world famous Superstars is that they bring to the game both showmanship and sportsmanship. To do this it takes character, a sense od self worth, discipline and commitment.

Sports must therefore be seen as a discipline and as character building. It is my wish that you take these virtues with you and that they transcend into your everyday lives. It is said that success is learned...so learn well! Always be inclined to give of your best and note, that, "the real competitor is the one who gives all he has, all the time."

The state of an athlete's mind is always important. It's not only about a healthy mind. I am sure that the coaches will agree with me when I say, that the psychological state of the athlete is as important if not more important than the physical condition of the athlete. A winning attitude must be cultivated if one is to succeed. Remember, that succes belongs not to the faster or stronger but to the one who thinks "I can."

Before I leave you here today, I would like to share with you the words of Amanda Bradley...

"Within our reach, lies every path we ever dream of taking,
Within our power, lies every step we ever dream of making,
Within our range, lies every joy we ever dream of saying,
Within our self, lies everything we ever dream of being."

On this note, "Let the Game Begin!" and I wish each and everyone of you God's Richest Blessings for the New Year.