Sports education is the focus of the collaboration between the New Jersey-based Centenary University and Jamaica’s GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport. 

The collaboration will feature a Track & Field Coaching 2.0 Certification programme being offered between April and June for enrollment in the United States. 

This programme will see the two educational institutions expand certificate offerings also on other sporting disciplines. The format is in-person and online. Special events like conferences and symposiums will also be part of the agreement. 

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed on March 15 by Centenary’s first black president, Dr. Dale Caldwell along with the GC Foster College principal, Maurice Wilson. 

Both leaders were elated at the partnership being sealed and Dr Caldwell said, “This unique partnership broadens Centenary University’s presence in international markets and creates extraordinary opportunities for students at both institutions.”

“It also opens the door for potential new NCAA Division III athletic programmes at Centenary, including men’s and women’s track and field,” he added.

For his part, Wilson expressed his appreciation and noted that “The college is continuing on his pathway to developing the best of Jamaica with sport education as one of its core focus. This partnership is a step in the right direction and we know the impact it will create. We are pleased that Centenary is on board with us and we welcome the broadening of our reach and scope of work.”

“The choice to go with Track and Field first, was a no-brainer,” both leaders of the institutions agreed. 

The online proceeding was witnessed by a cross section of officials from both institutions.

O’Neil Walters, managing director of PPIVOTT, is responsible for bringing the two institutions together and he also was online to witness the signing of the MOU. 

“We are proud of this intercultural partnership in sports education that represents first step action within the broad mission of the brand.” said Walters.

“As we embark on creating brand identity solutions to uplift our people (talents) in key the areas of sports, entertainment and the arts, we will be conducting Jamaica’s first Peak Performance Summit in June 2024 to coincide with the end of the first Track & Field Certification programme,” he continued.