Through the Sandals Foundation, the Whitehall High School Football team all the way from Pennsylvania, USA, donated 40 backpacks full of school supplies, along with two suitcases of books and teaching supplies to Willikies Primary School. The team also donated 16 soccer balls, 14 team uniforms, two dozen socks, 40 pairs of cleats and a pop up goal to the women’s national under- 17 and under- 20 football teams.  Meanwhile, goalkeeper Kelsey Himmelwright saved more than a dozen of her jersey’s to be included in the donation.

“I love soccer but the highlight of my trip was definitely the visit to Willikies Primary School because I realized that you can make a difference in the lives of children and when I saw how happy they were after receiving our donation, it warmed my heart,” said Jenny Davis, captain of the high school team.

Heidi Clarke Director of Programmes at the Sandals Foundation expressed gratitude for the generosity that has been shown by these young ladies.“Each donation of books and school supplies that is made through the Sandals Foundation contributes to educational development in the Caribbean.  We thank the Whitehall High School team for their donation and admire them for their determination to give back,” Clarke said.The girls, who range in age from 14 to 18, worked tirelessly and raised more than US $7000 for the trip.  They sold hoagies, made numerous calls soliciting sponsorship and even canvassed businesses.  When members of the corporate community were unable to help them with funds, they asked for a donation of school supplies. 

“The girls were determined to raise the funds and many of them sacrificed their time to ensure that this trip could become a reality,” commented Donscesz, President of VIP Vacations and one of the chaperone’s alongside the team’s coach George Romano and Robert Hartman, Athletics Director.  The team, who stayed at Grand Pineapple Beach Resort from April 26-29 had an exciting itinerary which included a tour of Antigua, a hosted dinner, training sessions and matches against the national female under -17 and under- 20 football teams. 

Following the tremendous success of this trip, the Whitehall team is hoping to make this trip an annual event.