Republic Bank Creates Pathways for Young Football Talent with the College Showcase Kickoff

Port-of-Spain, Trinidad, April 10, 2026: The 2026 Republic Bank College Showcase officially kicked off at Republic Bank’s Head Office on Thursday, April 9 with the College Showcase Seminar. The event, made possible under the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference corporate social responsibility programme, is being held in collaboration with the AR Student Athlete Soccer Scholarship Academy (ARSASSA) and marks the beginning of a transformative weekend centered around exposure, development, and access to global pathways through football.

The College Showcase seeks to provide a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their skills in front of coaches, scouts, and representatives from international colleges and agencies. Participants also benefit from seminars that focus on academic pathways, scholarship opportunities, and personal development, encouraging a holistic approach to excellence.

Speaking to the athletes at the College Showcase Seminar, Reena Gopaul, Manager, Group Brand Management at Republic Bank, described the initiative as more than just a football event, “We believe football is more than a game; it is a powerful tool for transformation, building discipline, sharpening focus, and teaching the essential value of teamwork. This weekend has been organized specifically as a vehicle for you to explore pathways far beyond our shores.” She went on to emphasize that the selection for the Showcase is a testament to each athlete’s perseverance and dedication, “To our athletes, your presence here today is no accident. You have rightfully earned your place on this pitch through determination and resilience.”

Coach Anthony Roy of the AR Student Athlete Soccer Scholarship Academy (ARSASSA) expressed his delight with his organisation’s continued collaboration with Republic Bank, “We’re honoured to partner with Republic Bank for another year in Trinidad and Tobago." He also highlighted the programme’s strong track record and vast impact on young football players throughout the country, sharing that last year alone, over 100 student athletes, along with their coaches and parents, benefited from the initiative. He then went on to share plans for this year’s Showcase, “This year, along with the collegiate opportunities, we’re expanding into the pro and semi-pro leagues, and our very experienced international coaching team is eager to impart their knowledge and provide opportunities for personal, academic, and athletic development.”

The College Showcase’s on-field action will take place on Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11 from 8:00am to 4:00pm at the Republic Bank Sports Club in Trinidad and on Sunday, April 12 at the Canaan/Bon Accord Recreation Ground in Tobago from 8:00 am to 4:00pm.