School Courtyard Named After Calvin Symonds
Yesterday [Jan 10], the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sports Lovitta Foggo, Premier David Burt, and members of Cabinet and Parliament honoured Bermudian sports legend Calvin “Bummy” Symonds by unveiling a plaque at the Northlands Primary School.
Mr. Symonds is one of the island’s cricket legend, having had great success in the sport during his early career. The courtyard of the school was renamed to honour his contributions.
Minister Foggo said during yesterday’s ceremony, “What a wonderful way to start the year by honouring Mr. Calvin “Bummy” Symonds.
“I am doubly pleased to be here as the Minister responsible for Community Affairs as well as Sports because Cal’s contribution covers both of these areas.
“He is considered a cultural icon and a sports legend. And it’s most fitting that we’re here at Northland’s Primary because many years ago, this educational institution was a critical part of nurturing and honing Mr. Symond’s sports skills.
“While Cal Symonds had success in several sporting disciplines, it’s his cricket legacy that has captured the hearts and minds of all of Bermuda. During his early years, he played for such local clubs as Western Stars, St. George’s Cricket Club, Pond Hill Stars and PHC.
“He had great success as a footballer as well. In fact, in the early 1950s, Cal Symonds played professional football overseas for Rochdale CC in the Central Lancashire League.
“But, he’s perhaps most known for being the prolific batsman for St. George’s Cricket Club during Cup Match. His Cup Match career began in 1950 and concluded in 1969.
“During his time as captain from 1961 to 1969, he guided St. George’s to eight championships under. Cal also represented the Bermuda national team in unofficial matches between 1952 and 1965. And during the 1990s Calvin gave back to his country by coaching the Bermuda team.”
Minister Foggo concluded, “So, we gather to express our thanks and appreciation for the legacy and the contributions of Mr. Calvin “Bummy” Symonds. Calvin, there’s a quote from the great Brazilian footballer Pele that stuck with me. Pele said, ‘Success is no accident. It’s hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.’
“This embodies Mr. Calvin “Bummy” Symonds. We thank you for your dedication to sports in Bermuda and beyond. We thank you for imparting your knowledge of cricket and football to those who came behind you. And most of all we thank you for being the quintessential cricket ambassador for Bermuda.”
