The teams will march from the Road Town Ferry Terminal to the A. O. Shirley Recreation Grounds ahead of opening ceremonies activities.

“Last year, we had something like 550 youngsters on that programme and this year, it has jumped to 770 — a fantastic figure and obviously, that has given us problems in terms of the logistics of organising,” said BVIFA President Andy Bickerton. “We’re absolutely delighted to announce that LIME has partnered with us in sponsoring the secondary schools programme, whereas BDO, who sponsored the whole programme last year, will be sponsoring the primary schools programme (this year).”

During a press briefing on Thursday at the BVIFA's Botanic Station headquarters, Janette Brin of LIME presented the league with a $9,000 cheque, while BDO Supervisor Natalie Bute donated $20,000 on behalf of the company to the league.

Mr. Bickerton said of the 770 registered, 566 are in primary school and 204 are in secondary. He said one third of the participants are girls, showing a growing interest in the programme.

BVIFA Programme Director Vincent “Nabu” Samuel said the league will run over four months with more than 300 matches in both divisions.

“We are definitely looking forward to this tournament with great anticipation and students are eagerly looking forward to what’s coming for them,” Mr. Samuel said. “We are also happy to have Anegada on board. Anegada has been one of our development teams and we are looking forward to seeing how that works along with Virgin Gorda and to match the talents. But, all in all, we promise that this year will be something special.”