PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Sport and the Sint Maarten Sports Federation (SMSF), in collaboration with Oxygen Matters, recently concluded a series of one-day First Aid Certification Courses aimed at elevating safety standards across the island’s sports community. This initiative ensures coaches and sports leaders are better prepared to handle emergencies during sports activities and events.
Each session provided participants with an intensive, hands-on learning experience, equipping them with essential skills such as CPR, AED operation, management of acute sports-related injuries, and effective responses to on-field emergencies. The courses were customized to address the unique challenges of maintaining safety in dynamic sports environments.
“The health and safety of our athletes are non-negotiable,” stated Jonelle Richardson, Department Head of the Department of Sport. “These sessions allowed organizations to quickly gain and upgrade essential first aid skills without disrupting their schedules, ensuring a balance between education and active participation.”
The initiative brought together representatives from various sports organizations and SMSF members, including aquatics, baseball/softball, basketball, boxing, bodybuilding & fitness, canoeing & kayaking, volleyball, netball, tennis, triathlon, and athletics. Upon successfully completing the course, all participants received certifications affirming their readiness to manage emergencies effectively. 
“First Aid training should be a standard requirement for all coaches and trainers,” stated Naomi Korstanje, President of the Sint Maarten Sports Federation. “This initiative marks a significant step toward achieving one of SMSF's core objectives since our re-inception. These condensed yet comprehensive courses are designed to maximize participation and equip sports leaders with the tools necessary to safeguard our athletes. We are proud of this collaboration and the positive impact it will have on enhancing the safety and well-being of sports in Sint Maarten.”
The Department of Sport and the Sint Maarten Sports Federation commends Oxygen Matters for delivering high-quality, practical training and thank the participating sports organizations for their commitment to making sports safer for everyone.
For more information on future training opportunities or how your organization can get involved, please contact the Department of Sport or the Sint Maarten Sports Federation.
