BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- In response to the tragic news on Friday (Feb. 16) of a young student athlete's death during a sports day event in Saddlers, the Ministry of Education issued a statement expressing profound sadness over the incident.
The athlete has been identified as Jardell Watts of Saddlers Secondary School, who was participating inlong distance race when he collapsed and was subsequently rushed to the hospital.
In its statement regarding the incident, the Ministry of Education expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Jardell Watts, stating, "Our hearts go out to his parents, Ms. Jacinh Matthew and Mr. Laurence Watts, extended family, and friends during this difficult time."
This incident occurred during the sports term, which is the period when major scholastic meets are held for the track and field season. Students often strive diligently to earn a spot on their respective school's national team, with the coveted opportunity to compete in the CARIFTA Games.
“This unexpected incident has touched the hearts of every single member of the Saddlers Secondary School family, the community and the education fraternity. Words cannot adequately express the sadness we feel at this time,” the ministry’s statement read.
Upon the news of the student's passing spreading through social media on February 16, messages of condolences and support began pouring in for the family of the young man, who was just beginning his scholastic journey.
The Ministry of Education acknowledged the efforts of young Watts, noting that the first-form athlete “quickly established himself as having superior athletic ability. It therefore goes without saying that Jardell had much potential and was a bright star with high expectations for the future. Jardell set high standards for himself as an athlete and desired to make his family and community proud through his athletic pursuits.”
As the family mourns his passing, the ministry emphasized the importance of surrounding them with a wall of support and strength during this period of grief.
