Refurbished Omnisports Hall renamed in official ceremony

May 27, 2016

MARIGOT—The long awaited re-opening of the Omnisports Hall in Galis Bay after several delays took place Wednesday evening with an inauguration and the first games to christen the smart new facility.

A complete refurbishment of the hall, inside and out, which is one of several sports facilities under renovation or due to start, cost 810,000 euros and includes a new beach volleyball court on the side.
Under the State and Collectivité’s development programme 5-million euros has been dedicated to renovating sports facilities.
The Omnisports Hall was dedicated to well-known sportsman now passed away François “Guede” Matthew and a plaque bearing his name was unveiled by President Aline Hanson.
A short biography of the late Matthew was read out by his brother Louis Mussington and a plaque presented to Matthew’s sister Nathalie and Matthew’s son.
François Matthew’s biography describes him as an “electrifying” sportsman who excelled in football, basketball, and volleyball. He represented St. Martin throughout the Caribbean as part of the St. Martin national team. He also earned the goal-getter trophy in football.
He passed away on March 26, 2004, and is survived by his two sons, Jonathan and Clifford.
Hanson, Territorial Councillor for Sports Alain Gros-Désormeaux, and Préfecture’s Chef de Cabinet Emmanuel Effantin representing Préfète Anne Laubies, gave short speeches before the unveiling of Matthew’s plaque and a tour of the facility.
The investment made for remaining sports infrastructure includes 650,000 euros for Concordia, French Quarter, and Cul de Sac; 1.2-million euros for renovation of Alberic Richards and Thelbert Carti Stadiums (work expected to be completed December 2016) and 2-million euros for the Louis Vanterpool Stadium in Marigot.