PORTFOLIO
SO! S
O
RICKETTS
contents PERSONAL PROFILE - AN INTRODUCTION ACADEMIC PROFILE ATHLETIC PROFILE GOALS PHOTO-GRAPHIC ACHIEVEMENTS BADMINTON PERSONAL
EXPOSE “THE UNLIKELY SPORTSMAN” Last update: 1SEP15
SO! S
O
RICKETTS
contents PUBLIC OPINION PEER ARTICLE
AVOCATION PROFILE WORK EXPERIENCE MUSIC SPEECHES RECOMMENDATIONS OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS
Last update: 1SEP15
PERSONAL PROFILE Who is
Samuel Ricketts? ASPIRATIONS: I am a 19 year old male who aspires to be a scholar with ever expanding contributions to mankind. I consider myself fortunate to be a multi-faceted individual, gifted in many disciplines and afforded many possibilities to explore and excel . Outside of academics, I am personally and deeply involved in sports, which is a dream for many young Jamaicans. From an early age my parents stressed the importance of being an athlete who does well academically, and I have taken this seriously. This has been one of the driving forces for the construct of my life.
ACHIEVEMENTS: I have represented Jamaica in both Table Tennis and Badminton internationally, and desire to become a professional badminton player in the future. My musical achievements have been fairly significant and spans competence in playing two instruments: the trumpet and the piano. These extra-curricula involvements have not hindered, but rather enhanced my overall academic journey. I have recently graduated from Belair high School in
Manchester Jamaica, where I spent 13 years enjoying learning, leadership and life.
This is a school that provides many avenues for developing rounded
individuals. During my final two years at Belair, I mastered seven units of study at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination level, attaining three grade 1’s , two grade 2’s , a grade 3 and a grade 4.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: Belair also afforded me the opportunity to gradually develop leadership skills. In 4th form I was given the sub-prefect badge and in 5th form I grew into prefect material. Later that academic year, I was chosen to be Belair High School’s Valedictorian of The Year 2013. That two-year molding process not only taught me how to be a leader but made me believe I was one. The next year I became deputy Head Boy. I was a little daunted by such a high and important position but I learned and steadily followed in the footsteps of the Head Boy. The final year of my tenure at Belair saw me becoming Head Boy. Having learnt to believe in myself, I embraced the opportunity to function as a role model for others, giving them inspiration through my words but mainly through my actions.
COMMUNITY ACTIVITES: My involvement with my community has been very rewarding. Since 2008 I have been working and volunteering at facilities which contribute to people’s well-being. Working in a Fitness Centre as an activity coordinator, at optical outlets as a junior records officer, at marketing events as a Brand ambassador and with a Table Tennis training centre as an assistant coach, has fulfilled my love for working with people.
LIFE ouTLOOK: I believe in life, one has to know the reason why they engage in and pursue a specific goal. This gives a framework for dedication and hard work as one can repeatedly look back and rehearse the goal. This is a pathway to greatness. I think of my mom who, to me, represents one who has become great. She struggled with seeing clearly while growing up and she decided that she did not want others to experience the same thing, so she became an Eye Doctor... and
a very good one at that. It means she had a plan from a young age and worked towards it. For me, my main goal is to be an ambassador for God, to be an inspiration to others throughout my lifetime, to represent my family and country well. I strive to ensure that my actions are the primary means through which I communicate my values, my work ethics and my outlook on life‌.that of being the best I can be.
PROJECTIONS: As I look ahead, I plan to take a gap year (September 2015 to July 2016) for full –time training in Badminton. The goal is to jump start my badminton career by playing with more advanced players as I aim for the 2020 Olympics. Ideally this will parallel developments in my doubles partner as our prospects for excelling is higher in doubles than for singles. The four years following this gap year I intend to pursue academics at a highly rated University and to train in badminton simultaneously. I have chosen your University as a place where I would be pleased to achieve the next phase of my life goals.
Signed,
SAMuEL RICKETTS
ACADEMIC PROFILE The Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), adminstrated by the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) is the standard means of assessing students at the grade 11 level.. Candidates attainging grades 1-3 have reached acceptable standards for matriculation.
Grade 1 - shows the highest level of comprehension of the key concepts and knowldege of the syllabus.
Grade 2 - shows a good grasp of the key concepts and knowledge of the syllabus.
CSEC MATHEMATICS CSEC ENGLISH LANGUAGE CSEC BIOLOGY CSEC PHYSICS CSEC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CSEC ACCOUNTS CSEC CHEMISTRY CSEC ENGLISH LITERATURE
ACADEMIC PROFILE The Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) administrated by the Caribbean Examinations COuncil (CXC) is the standard means of assessing students at the grade 12 and 13 level. Candidates attainging grades 1-5 have reached acceptable standards for matricualtions purposes.
Grade 1 - Represents an excellent performance and grasp of the key concepts and knowledge of the syllabus.
Grade 2 - A very good standard of performance.and grasp of the key concepts and knowledge of the syllabus.
Grade 3 - A good standard of performance and grasp of the key concepts and knowledge of the syllabus.
Grade 4 - Satisfactory standard of performance and grasp of the key concepts and knowledge of the syllabus.
CAPE BIOLOGY UNIT 1 CAPE COMMUNICATION STUDIES CAPE PHYSICS UNIT 1 CAPE MATHEMATICS UNIT 1 CAPE BIOLOGY UNIT 2 CAPE MATHEMATICS UNIT 2 CAPE MATHEMATICS UNIT 1 (REPEAT) CAPE PHYSICS UNIT 2
ACADEMIC PROFILE The Scholastic Apptitude Test (SAT) is one of the major standardized test of North America, uesd to assess academic rediness for college. Subject scores are reported on a scale of 200 - 800 and represent a student’s performance compared to other students.
Subject Breakdown:
SAT READING SAT MATHEMATICS SAT WRITING
Achievements 2015
PRINCIPAL’S AWARD Belair High School
2015
VALEDICTORIAN (JOINT) Belair High Graduating Class (Upper Sixth Form)
2015
OUTSTANDING ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT Belair High School
2015
FACULTY AWARD Belair High School
2015
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN SPORTS Belair High School
2014/15
HEAD BOY Belair High School
2015
4 UNITS Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination
2014
SPECIAL RECOGNITION SPORTS AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE IN SPORTS (LOCALLY & INTERNATIONALLY) Belair High School
2014
4 UNITS Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination
2013
AINSLEY DUJON AWARD FOR HIGHEST ACADEMIC ACHIEVER Belair High School
Achievements 2013
VALEDICTORIAN Belair High Graduating Class
2013
PREFECT BELAIR HIGH SCHOOL
2013
DEPUTY HEAD BOY BELAIR HIGH SCHOOL
2013
SPORTS AWARD BELAIR HIGH SCHOOL VALEDICTORY SERVICE
2013/14
8 SUBJECTS - 6 Subjects GRADE 1, 2 Subjects GRADE 2 Caribbean Secondary Examination Council, General Proficienc
ATHLETIC PROFILE
“ I aspire to be Jamaica’s top [Badminton] player… a player with exemplary qualities: humble, respectful, honest, helpful, inspirational and most of all one who perseveres through all obstacles . I believe that God has gifted me with a unique talent that He intends for me to maximize. I believe that one should respect the sport and play for the love of the sport and not for materialistic reasons. I also believe that those who are blessed with talent by God should realize that with His power they can achieve significant things.” Samuel Ricketts, Jamaica Top Seeded U-19 Badminton Player No2 Seeded Men’s Badminton Player RJR Athlete of the Year, Badminton - 2014
Ra r e D e f e at s by Ruddy Allen Tuesday, April 29, 2014 Jamaica Observer
Samuel Ricketts Leads Jamaica’s Charge
Amid Eliminations by Ryon Jones Thursday, July 28, 2011 The Gleaner
A number of Jamaicans were eliminated on yesterday's opening day of singles action at the
Ocean
Spray
XX
Pan
Am
Junior
Badminton championships being staged at the National Indoor Sports Centre. Samuel Ricketts (centre), winner of the A Division Men's Singles and Gareth Henry (right), runner-up in the A Division Singles, pose for pictures with Winston Ricketts, father of Samuel Ricketts and a council member at JBA during a presentation ceremony at the Constant Spring Golf Club on Sunday. Samuel defeated Henry 22-20 and 21-15 in the final. (PHOTO: LIONEL ROOKWOOD)
Ricketts defeated Gareth 22-20 and 21-15 to claim his first win over the latter to be crowned the A Division Men's Singles champion. Ricketts got off to a strong start in the first set taking a 7-3 lead with some low forehand shots, but had to withstand a late challenge from Gareth to tie the set at 20-20, but young Ricketts held his nerves however, and pulled off a 22-20 victory. Spectators expected a three-setter game, but Ricketts once again defied the odds and comfortably cruised to a two set victory to clinch his first major Men's Singles title. Full article: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Rare-defeats
The host nation got off to a winning start, however, as top local junior Samuel Ricketts got the better of his Puerto Rican counterpart, Ivan Moralez, (2-0) 21-18, 21-14, in their Under-17 men's singles encounter. Ricketts returned later in the afternoon to notch his second victory of the day, as he stopped Trinidad and Tobago's Jason Ramjass (2-0) 21-10, 21-15. Full article: http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20110728/sports/sports5.html
2 Bronze Medals for Jamaica Saturday, July 27, 2013 - 2:30 pm Sports Development Foundation
Jamaica's Pan Am Juniors medalists: Jonathan Smith, Tremar Barham and Samuel Ricketts, three of the four who paired to take the two bronze medals presented to the losing semi-finalists in the Under 19 Mens Doubles. Full article: http://www.sdf.org.jm/index.php/about-us-28/latest-news/301 -2-bronze-medals-for-jamaica
Ricketts Revels in Performance at S u r i n a m e E a s t e r T o u r n e y by Sherdon Cowan Wednesday, April 23, 2014 Jamaica Observer
at the Norman Manley International Airport yesterday. Ricketts went into the Under-19 tournament unseeded, but managed to get the better of three
seeded
opponents,
including
the
number one seeded Soren Opti, whom he bettered in two sets, 21-15, 21-10 to take the title on Sunday. In addition to that he also took part in the men's open division singles event, where he outdid himself to make it to the final before losing out to the number one ranked Virgil Soeroredjo in two sets, 9-21, 15-21. "Going in unseeded I just went there to do my Samuel Ricketts poses with his medal and trophy shortly after arriving at the Norman Manley International Airport yesterday. (PHOTO: LIONEL ROOKWOOD)
NATIONAL junior badminton sensation Samuel Ricketts expressed satisfaction with his gold and silver medal performances at the recently concluded Suriname Easter tournament. "I went there to win the Under-19 title, which I did, and I also went there to create some upsets in the 'A' division, which is over 19, and I accomplished that as well, so I am really happy with my performance," Ricketts told the Jamaica Observer upon arrival
best so that in future tournaments I will be a seeded player as I want to keep my game going while gaining exposure," he said. He went on to explain why the victory against the more advanced players was even more stupendous. "The feeling was overwhelming because he had his home crowd supporting him and it was just me and my dad with no one cheering for me so to come out victorious was really great."
Full article: http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Ricketts-revels-in-perfor mance-at-Suriname-Easter-tourney_16509343
The youngest
of four, and the only
boy, Samuel Ricketts was born to parents Winston and Cardice Ricketts in Kingston, Jamaica on April 25, 1996. Through his life he has displayed well-rounded excellence in sport, academics, and personal character. He has always had an enthusiastic, fighting spirit yet remains grounded by his family connections and his deep reverence for God. At age 19, he holds the position of Belair High’s Head Boy and was the top Under-19 Badminton player in Jamaica. His ultimate goal is to be Jamaica's top player and to represent Jamaica in the Olympics. “ I aspire to be Jamaica’s top player, but not just a player. [I want to be] A player with exemplary qualities: humble, respectful, honest, helpful, inspirational, and, most of all, one who perseveres through all obstacles . I believe that God has gifted me with a unique talent that He intends for me to maximize. I believe that one should respect the sport and play for the love of the sport and not for materialistic reasons. I also believe that those who are blessed with talent by God should realize that with His power they can achieve significant things.” His international exposure, love for the sport and deep belief in empowerment from God, align him for even more success in the field.
ATHLETic PROFILE Name
:
Samuel Ricketts
Sport Age DOB Address School
: : : : :
Badminton 19 yrs April 25, 1996 PO Box 701 Mandeville, Jamaica Belair High School
Highest Rank:
Jamaica Juniors 1 Singles 1 Doubles
October 2014
Jamaica Seniors 2 Singles
October 2014
World 92 98 413
Juniors Singles Doubles Mixed Doubles
World 430 182 555
Seniors October 2014 Singles Doubles (Gareth Henry) Mixed Doubles (Katherine Wynter)
(AS OF SEPTEMBER 2015)
Weight Height Shirts Shorts Shoes
: : : : :
October 2014
144 pounds 5’ 9” Medium Adult Medium Adult 10.5 USA
October 2014 October 2014 October 2014
goals To represent the country well in the team events and to win Gold in the Singles and Doubles events of the in Guatemala in July. To represent the country well in the team events and to win Gold in the Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles at the in August. To represent well and win Gold in the Doubles event of the in Canada in October. To represent well at the in Mexico in November.
To achieve a
To achieve a
World Ranking.
World Ranking.
To represent the country at the 2018 . To represent the country at the 2020
.
photo-graphic
Samuel has proven himself capable of achieving his Badminton goals not only in Jamaica, but also on the international Badminton scene. This info-graphic aims to quickly draw attention to his consistency over the years. The time-line illustrates his growing success up and through each Junior division of the sport. Within each age/skill division, there is the much desired opportunity to “Triple Crown”; win Gold in all three categories of the game. Samuel has achieved this 4 times in his 10-year career, and near-tripled on many occasions. He is now in the upper-most “A” (or “Open”) Division and he continues to compete in the Singles (individual), Doubles (with a male partner) and Mixed Doubles (with a female partner) categories of the sport . 2014 has been his most prolific year so far with the National defeat of top senior players and record-breaking wins for Jamaica internationally. 1996
More detailed information can be found in the following pages of this booklet. Began Training with Rangers Badminton Academy in Mandeville, his hometown.
Brazil ‘06 Won 3 MEDALS in U-11; one for each category entered.
2003
2006
Kingston, JA
Peru ‘05
Samuel was born on April 25, two months premature! He’s been moving ever since.
Finalist in first international tournament: U-9 Doubles, SILVER. ‘06. Won
6 MEDALS
locally. Triple Crowned. Twice! That’s 6 GOLDS + First mention in the media. 2008
2007
Jamaica ‘10
9 MEDALS won locally. Including Gold, Gold, Silver at All Jamaica Jr Champs U-15.
Gained 2 GOLDS and a SILVER in the Junior Badminton Classics, locally between the U-13 and U-15 divisions.
SILVER in Guatemala. ‘09.
3 MEDALS Locally.
5 MEDALS Locally.
2011
Including Triple Crown at Racketeers Tournament, B-Division.
Dominican Republic Puerto Rico Mexico ‘13
3 BRONZES and brought his Senior partner to victory in the Santo Domingo OPEN. GOLD! 2012
2013
Jamaica + Barbados ‘11
Dominican Republic ‘12
2 MEDALS won in
GOLD at the Carebaco U-17 Singles.
international tournaments.
Guatemala ‘14
GOLD
+ SILVER. PanAm U-19 Doubles and Singles respectively.
9 MEDALS won locally including 2 GOLDS and a SILVER at the All Jamaica Jr Champs U-17.
Suriname ‘14
GOLD. U-19. SILVER. Open.
5 MEDALS won locally.
Cuba ‘14 Giraldilla Open, Doubles:
BRONZE.
2014 Local: February. 2 GOLD MEDALS at the NCU Badminton Champs. A-Division March. GOLD in Doubles Mania Tournament.
Jamaica ‘14
3x GOLD and a SILVER at CAREBACO Regional Championships.
April. 3 GOLD (Triple Crown) at the Junior Classics. GOLD at Tournament of Kings. October. GOLD in All Jamaica Junior Champs.
Achievements 2014
GOLD [as part of the Jamaican Team] CAREBACO International Championships (Jamaica)
2014
GOLD [Singles], GOLD [Doubles], SILVER [Mixed Doubles] CAREBACO International Junior Championship U-19 (Jamaica)
2014
GOLD [Doubles], SILVER [Singles] XXIII PAN AM Jr Badminton Championship U-19 (Guatemala)
2014
BRONZE [Doubles] XV Giraldilla Tournament Open (Cuba)
2014
GOLD [Singles] ASSURIA International Easter Badminton Tournament U-19 (Suriname)
2014
SILVER [Singles] ASSURIA International Easter Badminton Tournament OPEN (Suriname)
2013
BRONZE [Singles] , BRONZE [Doubles] CAREBACO International Junior Championship U-19 (Puerto Rico)
2013
GOLD [Doubles] Santo Domingo OPEN Badminton Championship (Dominican Republic)
2013
BRONZE [Doubles] XXII PAN AM Jr Badminton Championship U-19 (Mexico)
2012
GOLD [Singles] CAREBACO Juniors U-17 (Dominican Republic)
2011
SILVER [Singles] CAREBACO Juniors U-17 (Barbados)
2011
BRONZE [Singles] XX PAN AM Jr Badminton Championships U-17 (Jamaica)
2008
SILVER [Doubles] XVII PAN AM Jr Badminton Championships U-13 (Guatemala)
2006
BRONZE [Singles] , BRONZE [Doubles] , SILVER [Mixed Doubles] PAN AM Jr Badminton Championships U-11 (Brazil)
2005
SILVER [Doubles] IV Regatas Jr International U-9 (Peru)
Achievements 2014
RJR ATHLETE OF THE YEAR - BADMINTON RJR Sports Foundation National Awards - Jamaica
2014
GOLD [Singles] All Jamaica Junior Championships
2014
GOLD [Singles], GOLD [Doubles], GOLD [Mixed Doubles] Jamaica Junior Classics
2014
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] NCU Badminton Championships Division A
2014
GOLD [Doubles] Doubles Mania A Division
2014
GOLD [Singles] Tournament of Kings OPEN
2013
SILVER [Singles] Tournament of Kings OPEN
2013
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Championships
2013
SILVER [Singles] , SILVER [Doubles] All Jamaica Senior Badminton Championships
2012
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] , SILVER [Mixed Doubles] Junior Classics Badminton Tournament Under 17
2012
SILVER [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] Junior Classics Badminton Tournament Under 19
2012
GOLD [Singles] , SILVER [Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Championships Under 17
2012
SILVER [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Championships
2011
GOLD [Doubles] Doubles Mania B Division
2011
SILVER [Singles] Tournament of Kings B Division
2011
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] , GOLD [Mixed Doubles] Racketeer Badminton Tournament B Division
2010
GOLD [Singles] Tournament of Kings Men’s C Division
2010
SILVER [Mixed Doubles] Doubles Mania C Division
2010
GOLD [Singles] Racketeers Badminton Tournament C Division
2010
SILVER [Singles] Chinese Benevolent Association Badminton Tournament B Division
2010
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] , SILVER [Mixed Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Tournament Under 15
2010
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Tournament Under 17
2009
GOLD [Doubles] Church Teacher’s College, Physical Education Dept
2009
GOLD [Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Under 15
2009
SILVER [Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Under 17
2008
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] , GOLD [ Mixed Doubles] All Jamaica Junior Badminton Classics Under 13
2008
GOLD [Singles] , GOLD [Doubles] , GOLD [Mixed Doubles] Racketeers Badminton Tournament D Division
2007
GOLD [Doubles] Junior Badminton Classics Under 13
2007
GOLD [Doubles] , SILVER [Singles] Junior Badminton Classics Under 15
2006
GOLD [Doubles] Junior Classic Badminton Boys Under 11
2006
GOLD [Doubles] , SILVER [Singles] B-Mobile All Jamaica Badminton Under 11
2006
SILVER [Doubles] Junior Badminton Classics Under 13
2006
SILVER [Doubles] B – Mobile All Jamaica Badminton Under 13
2006
SILVER [Doubles] Racketeers Badminton Tournament D-Division
Achievements 2013
Team Captain Belair Badminton Team
2012
Most Valuable Player Belair High Badminton Team, School Competition
2011
Most Valuable Player Belair High Badminton Team, School Tournament
2008
Team Captain Belair Badminton Team, LIME School League
2006
Most Valuable Player Belair High Under 15 School Team, B- Mobile Badminton School League
2005
Most Valuable Player Belair High Under 15 School Team, B- Mobile Badminton School League
Achievements 2014
SILVER SUPERSONIC TABLE TENNIS TOURNAMENT
2014
UNDER 21 CHAMPION UTECH TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP
2014
“C” DIVISION CHAMPION U-TECH TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP
2014
MEMBER OF BELAIR’S CHAMPION TEAM ALL ISLAND ISSA TABLE TENNIS SCHOOL CHAMPION
2014
23rd OUT OF 387 RUNNERS IN 25 MINS LIME 6 K RACE , JAMAICA
2014
120nd OUT OF 11,517 RUNNERS IN 23 MINS SAGICOR 5.5 K RACE , JAMAICA
2014
TRUMPET MASTERY, GRADE 5 ASSOCIATED BOARD OF THE ROYAL SCHOOLS OF MUSIC
2013
UNDER 17 CHAMPION JAMAICA ISSA SCHOOL TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP
2013
PIANO MASTERY, GRADE 4 ASSOCIATED BOARD OF THE ROYAL SCHOOLS OF MUSIC
2012
NATIONAL TT TEAM QUALIFIER JAMAICA TABLE TENNIS NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM TO CUBA
Achievements 2012
TRUMPET MASTERY, GRADE 4 ASSOCIATED BOARDS OF THE ROYAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC
2011
NATIONAL TT TEAM QUALIFIER JAMAICA TABLE TENNIS NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM TO PUERTO RICO
Expose Being born 9 weeks premature – with only 3.5 lbs of mass, diagnosed with dysmorphism (poor muscle tension) at 11 months, reduced lung capacity at 6 yrs, Osgood Schlatters’ disease (weak knees) at 10 years – Samuel was an unlikely candidate for excelling in sports…
Watching Samuel’s journey over the last 13 years has led me to believe that excelling in sports involves far more than having innate superior physical abilities.
For Samuel, it was the sheer joy of competition, the intense desire to be first, if possible, but certainly it entailed his un-ending passion of being the best that he can be. Samuel’s success in badminton has been honed from a mosaic of disciplines:
u .IZTa 2V\MZVI\QWVIT XZMX [KPWWT sprinting competitions gave him his
;
u 7I\QWVIT PQOP [KPWWT IKPQM^MUMV\[ QV table tennis added to his u :MKMV\ marathons strengthened his
;
;
u *V IOQTM scientific mind informed his placements and u *V ]V][]IT SMMVVM[[ QV spatial acuity has heightened his
; of his
immediate surroundings.
All this coupled with determination, a fighting spirit, great sportsmanship, exemplary team spirit, has made Samuel into the budding champion that he is.
Samuel knows he could not have got here by himself… without God, family, coaches, friends, educators, and sponsors. He carries a heart of appreciation for those who believe in him and invest in him. This, he maintains, is the fuel for his hard work and discipline, and his key to future successes.
Expose Samuel remains an outstanding and astounding example of skill and character. His journey to the Olympics has so far been rooted in hard work, good sportsmanship and a steely determination. Here’s what those around him think :
Howard Ranger, Coach of 11 years :
“First impression.... He showed where he would be good from an early age. . .
He actually listens, he’s not a dunce. He is smart enough to catch on, to know things that are being taught. The biggest thing is he tries to be himself on the badminton court. . . The regular badminton player will try to play certain shots [but] he is trying to play shots out of the ordinary, the unorthodox shots, the ones that make it fun to see. . . So that’s what makes him di erent; that he is willing to try things which are not from the textbook.
In the next 2 - 3 years you will see him being highly ranked on the world circuit... and, all things being equal, he will go to the Olympics. . . [his] strongest game is in Doubles.
I must say that his development over the past two years has been faster than before. . .He has a personality which is going to bring him far, in that he always smiles at anything he does.”
continued ->
Expose Lamar Wildman, Guidance Counsellor :
“Samuel is exceptionally intelligent and has proved himself to be a very quick learner, model student, readily demonstrating the ability to extrapolate his knowledge and apply concepts. He is highly motivated, a goal-oriented student of dynamic personality and creativity. A dedicated student athlete who leads from example and will be an asset to any future team or institution. Samuel is an excellent student, who demonstrates empathy as well as professionalism in his interactions with peers. He is comfortable with himself, a focused and self-assured scholar. He reason; he has
has strong convictions tempered by good judgment and
rm spiritual roots and an active, diverse, social life; he is loyal,
committed, and clear-sighted. He is a good sportsman and has won many awards. It is a rare treat to encounter a student as impressive as Samuel.”
Michael Chen, Friend :
“Samuel is dedicated and works hard to achieve his goals. He stops at nothing to do what is required in a competition. He plays every point as if it is the last. Samuel has potential and will go a far way, very , very far.”
Young Badminton Player, Fan :
" He is so fast, He's so good! I don't know he does it. Samuel is just di erent "
Expose by: Abbigay Wilson & Shae Dixon november 21, 2013 Belair’s golden boy, Samuel Ricketts, brings home a gold medal after competing at the International Badminton Tournament in Santo Domingo. Ricketts, who serves as Belair High School’s Deputy Head Boy, is no stranger to success. This has been reflected by his countless achievements (both athletic and academic). Samuel’s achievements, however, did not materialize overnight and everyone can attest to the fact that he is an ardent worker who strives for success.
Badminton History:
Samuel’s road to excellence began in 2003 at the tender age of seven when he started training with the Rangers Badminton Club; where he still trains today. A year later, this spectacular eight year old attended Club League in Peru where he won a silver medal in Under 9 doubles. It was at his first International Tournament in 2006 at the PanAm Junior Badminton Championship in Brazil, when he was only ten years old, that he received his second silver medal in Under 11 Mixed Doubles and two bronze medals in Under 11 Singles and Under 11 Doubles.
Samuel continued to reign as he earned silver in Doubles Under 13 at the PanAm Junior Badminton Champs in Guatemala in 2008. Later that year, he acquired the title of Under 13 National Champion where he triple crowned in the All Jamaica Junior Champions. That same year, he also tripled in the D-Division of the Racketeers Tournament, where he was then promoted to C-Division at age 12.
His most successful year locally was in 2010 at the Junior Nationals where he gained four whole wins, the most of any player in the tournament! These were the singles and doubles in both Under 15 and Under 17 sections. He also gained the runner up in
the Under 15 Mixed Doubles. In 2011, after two years of not advancing beyond the quarterfinals of the PanAm Junior Badminton Championship, Samuel represented the medal rounds and won a bronze medal in his home country in his first year of Under 17. He was also a reserve for the team events that year.
In the last profile written on him, Samuel expressed that he aspires to win gold; representing the country in the team events of PanAm Junior Badminton Champs in 2012 and playing in the singles Category since then. This golden boy is not only about Badminton since he also plays Table Tennis. He is also a budding musician as he plays the trumpet and piano. Throughout all this, he manages to remain an A student.
The Belair School Family salutes our champion, Samuel Ricketts! Retrieved from: https://www.facebook.com/notes/belair-high-school/belair-strikes-gold-again-samuel-ricketts-highlight/168840989991794
AvOCATION PROFILE
WORK EXPERIENCE I have gained tremendously from working and serving my community. It opened my eyes to the reality and necessity of hard work in securing a job that provides enjoyment and economic stability.
YES FITNESS CENTRE ACTIVITY COORDINATOR
July - August 2008 July - August 2009
PAEDIATRIC EYE CENTRE JUNIOR RECORDS OFFICER
July – August 2010
CENTRAL OPTICAL, THE FRAME GALLERY
February 2012
(Jamaican & Trinidadian Branches)
February & June 2013
BRAND AMBASSADOR
February & June 2014 May - June 2015
CLEARSIGHT OPHTHALMIC CONSULTANTS
December 2012
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION REPRESENTATIVE
January 2014
MANCHESTER TABLE TENNIS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE
February – May 2013
January 2015
ASSISTANT TABLE TENNIS COACH CONGRESS WBN (JAMAICA) VOLUNTEER CHILDREN’S CHURCH ASSISTANT
January 2014 –June 2015
MuSICAL INvOLvEMENT Playing music gives me a chance to connect with it and add dimensions that create a different world. It adds to what I may be feeling at the time, resonates outwards and frames the atmosphere around me. There is also such a sense of joy when others can relax and benefit from the music I play.
MuSICAL INvOLvEMENT TRuMPET
SPEECHES Although I most definitely prefer to speak through my actions, the leadership roles I’ve been awarded have forced me to speak verbally. Surprisingly, I have been warming up to public speeches. It gives me the opportunity to open up and relate to people personally. It expresses not only my spirit, but my thoughts, my convictions and my life ideals. Following are a few of my speeches.
VALEDICTORIAN SPEECH JUNE 2013 When asked about his sculpting process, esteemed Renaissance artist Michaelangelo said “In every block of marble I see a statue as plain as though it stood before me, shaped and perfect in attitude and action. I have only to hew away the rough walls that imprison the lovely apparition to reveal it to other eyes as mine sees it”. Chairman of the Governing Board and Board members, the School Administration, Teachers, Parents and other distinguished guests, my fellow graduands Good Afternoon. It is truly an honor to stand before you today, having been hewn into Valedictorian of the year two thousand and thirteen. In fact, classmates, we have all been shaped into a better form of ourselves thanks to our parents, teachers, and our experiences with each other, that have sculpted us into THE GRADUATING CLASS OF 2013. God sees us as that block of marble and he poses us with certain challenges or hindrances to test our character, our strength. These are situations that if we overcome them we can step past that barrier and progress to even higher stages in life and in our definition. For me... one is that I am hearing impaired. No really, I am... this isn’t some funny foreign accent. (ha ha) But I’ve never allowed anything to hold me back. I’m always fighting, ready for the next challenge. In fact, my mum says that I fought myself out of the womb! Arriving two months early... no wonder my hearing got left behind! As we progress, we each have had our own challenges to overcome, but thankfully we have been surrounded with the family we needed here at our second home, Belair! And it hasn’t all been struggle! It fills me with joy to think of my loveable classmates whom I've shared laughs, tears,homework,FOOD, class detentions with(but that was back in grade 8 we were a bit immature then). And who can forget how bubblegum conflicts have evolved? From you pop out a pack a bubble gum, everybody turn you friend.
Regina:
"you not giving me a bubblegum Samuel ?"
Sam:
“No, Wegina”
Regina:
"I not bweing your fwend" *folds arms* "you really nah gi mi a bubblegum Bobo"
Sam:
"Nooo it's finished Regina"
Regina:
"Heee lieeeeeee, watch mi and yuh"
The love I tell you! That love is part of what makes Belair my second home. It’s close-knit environment with family atmosphere. I was a belair baby, who literally grew up there in those halls over the past thirteen years. Some of us have “started from the bottom now we here, started from the bottom now my whole team _____ here”. Like Sion and Jody. Jovon, remember when you used to tease me about about my khaki shorts?! Some of my “brothers and sisters” joined us along the way. Like Jerry, Francine, Mickeino... and some of them tried to run away... but couldn’t resist the greatness of Belair. Yes Regina and Mikey, I’m talking to you. Yup, that’s family for you. Our teachers are close to us as well and Of course, as students we have to play tricks on them! I distinctly remember in... Wait before i proceed ..... You guys have to have to pinky promise...not promise but pinkyyyyyy promise that you won't tell Mrs. McCatty... Ok??? Shhhhhhhhh Yeah, I distinctly remember in grade eight when Mrs. Howard was conducting her English class. I'm not sure whose idea it was to pelt poor Mrs. Howard with tiny little Nerds candy bullets. Probably it was troublesome Leroy or hyperactive Mickeino. She was writing on the board and suddenly felt little unknown items hitting her. "What's that?" She looked to the ceiling... We stopped for a while... Then once she turned back around we resumed pelting her... but more profusely. She swung around. “What's that ? Who's doing that?”
It was hilarious! Sure, they say we like to act like we and them a size... but sometimes they act like dem and WE a size. Like Jones and Claakie! But we can’t joke with some of them! Like esteemed Mr. T, who don’t like “foolishness”! Mr. Hall can be jovial too but he’s not afraid to let you know seh “yah eediat?!”... til you shame so til! I can’t go without mentioning my homeroom teacher Ms Burton who acts as our daytime mother... which can be quite stressing actually... and sarcasm expert Mr. Smith.
Our experiences as a school family has had it’s ups and downs, but I’m grateful to be surrounded by the people and experiences that have chipped and chiselled away away at me so that I’m becoming better person. I’m also deeply thankful that God has blessed me with a wonderful family. A funny family. A lively family. But most importantly, one with set values and principles centered around Godliness. One key view has etched itself into my being: "Focus not on the temporary reality but on the eternal reality. " My friends, that’s my encouragement today. Even though today may be a bittersweet moment, with what seems like an undefined future... remember that in every encounter God, the master sculptor, is carving away at the uncertainty to reveal his unfolding purpose for our life.
EXPOSITORY SPEECH ON SPORTS AND ACADEMICS TOPIC: SPORTS- A GATEWAY TO ACADEMIC SUCCESS SPEAKER: SAMUEL RICKETTS MAY 23, 2014
Historically the focus on sports has been regarded as diametrically opposed to the focus on academics. However, local and international authorities alike, have established a positive relationship between both. As an international athlete and student, I am indeed knowledgeable as it relates to the topic: “Sports - the gateway to academic success”. Sports assist in unlocking the inner IQ of students and enhances their academic success. I will endeavor to illustrate the fact that sports reconfigures students and helps them to discover their inner selves. Methods of research included the medium of interviews and information gleaned from the internet. Several authorities support the notion of a positive sports and academics relationship such as Jamaican educator Esther Tyson, former Principal of Ardenne High School and is a prolific writer as it relates to topics on education and social issues. In her comment referenced in the March 8th, 2014 edition of the Gleaner, in the recent CSEC debate, sports would be “one of the necessary extracurricular activities which promotes well-roundedness”. She ventures further to suggest that a child sitting an “excessive” number of CSEC academic subjects, may be in danger of being distracted from attaining this state of well-roundedness. In the future, I hope that this research helps me to establish institutions that facilitate the necessities of student athletes and assist them in excelling in both arenas. Good academics is immensely desired by society, but adding sports into the picture creates a great blend. Sports contribute to better school results and lead to fewer drop-outs. This has been cited in the article: “Sports aren’t killing Academics” found in The Atlantic newspaper in the United States, and written by Daniel Bowen & Colin Hitt. The Interviewees selected were all chosen because of their direct relationship to student athletes. The question posed to them was: “How does sports assist in unlocking the hidden IQ within students and enhance their academic success? There are a number of reasons my interviewees have given:
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where they assume leadership roles.
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lengthy practice required for some academic subjects
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nally, is extremely valuable as it relates to success in an academic environ ment. A student who excels in the area of sports is indeed a prime candidate for accessing a range of scholarships within a wide scope of Universities. Each year at our annual Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Championship, international scouts visit the Island to identify sporting talent which may be developed on the international circuit. These Universities ensure that these athletes are firmly grounded and can produce good academic results. Hence, the potential marriage of Sports and Academics with the end result being greater academic success. Involvement in sports enhances focus and refine time management skills which are important in academics. I.S.S.A has now established a direct correlation between academics and sports by establishing rules which state that students need to achieve at least a 50% average in order to be included in the championships. My research led me to be mindful of the fact that there are various non-traditional learners, such as kinesthetic learners. These motion-seeking students possess a special type of intelligence that uses the body as a vessel to create or do something. In fact, these individuals learn primarily by carrying out a physical activity, rather than listening to a lecture, reading instructions, or watching a demonstration. In exploring different learning styles, it was uncovered that kinesthetic learners are considered discovery learners: in that their realization comes from doing, rather that thinking before initiating action. Despite the fact that kinesthetic learners may have a hard time learning in the traditional way, the view of author Howard Gardner in: FRAMES OF MIND: The theory of multiple intelligences, is that "kinesthetic learners have strengthened long and short term memory due to their use of movement". When learning, they acquire greater understanding if they are allowed to move around and have been found to acquire improved grades in exams. Sports, then, has an added benefit in a school environment because it helps the 5% of students who are classified as kinesthetic learners, in developing better academic prowess. An athlete in his quest for self discovery, would benefit from perspectives held by role models in the field. According to Duke Preston, former NFL competitor of Notre Dame in the 'Athletics and Academics' article of the 'Scholistic' November 2013
magazine, "the demands of being an athlete forces young adults to mature quickly and realize that they can better themselves by finding their true selves". Preston routinely ask athletes in college to ask themselves the question of who they see themselves to be extending beyond their athletic and academic identity. He challenges them to formulate their true values and beliefs from their wide composite of experiences. This gives athletes a tool for establishing their individual identity. In interviewing Dr. Cardice Riley-Ricketts, mother of an international student athlete, she stated "I initially had reservations about proper time management and distraction, but I was amazed and silenced in fact, when I saw my son excel in his school work, even though he had such little time". This especially relates to athletes who possess the desire to learn. That statement is supported by interviewee Mr. Christopher Smith, another student athlete parent, who said "For students already interested in academics, sports helps but for those who are not interested, it may hurt". They were a few challenges faced while conducting the research. To conduct proper interviews and to find reliable, valid sources with meaningful information were very time consuming. Also some newspaper articles were not useful. One source I would consider as reliable and valid was the internet source on the work of Howard Gardner, a researcher of learning styles. His book Frames of mind has withstood years of scrutiny. Furthermore, the aspect of his work regarding kinesthetic learners is backed by highly lauded University Lecturer and dancer Margaret Hâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Doubler whose definition of kinesthetic learners was accepted through her writings and lecturing during the 1940â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Most of the research conducted was by use of the internet, a form of secondary sourcing, and a few were by use of interviews which are primary sources. These sources had some reliability because of the close relationships, eg parent, sister, coach the interviewees had with the life of the student athletes.The source pertaining to the article written by Duke Preston is regarded as a reliable and valid source because Duke himself was a student and an athlete of the prestigious University of Notre Dame. He is also the current Sports Programme Director at his Alma Mater. Also Dr. Cardice Riley-Ricketts is regarded as a reliable and valid source because she is a known community heath care giver and she is also the mother of an international student athlete engaged in two sports. I strongly feel that academic students should become more diverse, accepting sports as a part of their regime which ultimately makes them a better, well-rounded individual. One way this could be achieved is for school administrators to communi-
cate to students that an emphasis on sports does not mean that academics should take a back seat. School systems and examining boards of the region could then move to endorse this concept by combining the two disciplines in the examination forum. A student could then carry one or two sporting subjects along with six or so academic subjects should they be so inclined. In conclusion, Sports has wide, lasting and positive benefits to students in an academic environment. One Jamaican Table Tennis coach, Peter Kavanaugah, was unflinching in his testimony that through sports, skills gained are transferable but character attained is permanently ingrained. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Acknowledgements:
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entitled: Athletics and Academics
HEADBOY SPEECH SAMUEL RICKETTS OCTOBER 24, 2014 Principal McCatty, Vice Principal Jones, teachers and my fellow colleagues, a warm greeting to you all. My name is Samuel O'Brien Ricketts and I'm here to suggest some reasons why I may be chosen as Head boy. It's not in my nature to really speak about myself but it's for the occasion. I'm friendly, humble, honest and hard working. I have high moral standards and know how to relate to people on different levels. I'm a team player. I love working in the company of others rather than by myself. Many are eager to spring up and declare "I will change the world" but through my lenses I see the hidden 'Wi' before that 'I'. I have a little bit of humor too, I guess. A good leader regards himself with importance parallel to that of his peers. Also a good leader highlights problems and provides plausible solutions. As a sportsman, I'll be traveling abroad quite frequently, representing the country. Therefore, if I'm worthy enough to attain such an honorable position, I'd be absent very frequently. However it'd be a pleasure to work in cooperation with one of my fellow colleagues if permitted Also a good leader admits his flaws but does his utmost best to improve on them. He doesn't let his circumstances define him, he defines his circumstances. I have a slight speech impediment, which I'm often teased about, so I'm not always confident in doing public speeches. However, I've accepted who I am and will use this so called "inability" to inspire others. This role will help me to overcome that barrier and become a true leader. These are the reasons why I, Samuel Ricketts, valedictorian of the year 2013, Deputy Head Boy, view myself as a worthy candidate of attaining the Head boy position at this noble institution. Thank you.
VALEDICTORIAN SPEECH EXCERPTS
SAMUEL RICKETTS JUNE 2015 Chairman of the board Mr Trevor Heaven, Principal Mrs. June Mc Catty, Vice Principal Mr. Conrad Jones, Guest Speaker Mr. Leighton McKnight, Madam master of ceremony Miss Sofia Morgan, Teachers, ladies and gentlemen, graduands.......... good afternoon. It’s with mixed emotions that I stand here before you today: one of sadness and one of great pride. In 2000, the very first year I came to Belair, I wandered in as raw play-doh, unformed mentally, socially, and physically. I was offered a corner chair in Ms. Lewis’s K1 classroom, which was my epicenter of security, my evidence of belonging. Without fail, without having to ask, year after year there was always another chair in a different shade, stronger, larger, more centralized and most importantly more personalized. With pride, I can attest that Belair provided chairs for each one of us, specialized for all our individual strengths and personalities. Our chairs served as our seats from which we learnt to govern…… govern our inner lives with utmost care in order to produce citizens of integrity, confidence, ambition, perseverance, passion, self-less-ness and unity fostered through friendship and knowledge. Sadly, Belair has run out of chairs for me…. And for all of us seated here, each with our different tenures of governance and our different portfolios. For me, it took 15 years to produce the young man that I am, for others , who came more formed than just a clump of play-dough, the transformative Belair process began two years ago ……. With hard work and determination we have completed the maze. It marks the end of one journey but the start of a next. Thank you to those who made it possible for us to be here today. We can confidently say that Belair has made us into well-rounded individuals who will continue to make a positive contribution to society. Class of 2015! Congratulations! WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!
RECOMMENDATIONS Following are recommendations from two of my educators. Deborah Rose, my piano teacher and Patrick Clarke my Mathematics and Physics teacher.
P.O. Box 637 Mandeville Jamaica West Indies September 1, 2015
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN Re: Samuel Ricketts
I wish to recommend the above-mentioned student who has been known to me for almost nine years. In addition to being active in extra-curricular activities at his school, he has participated in studio recitals and music examinations connected with the piano studio I operate, gaining above average pass marks. Samuel is well-mannered, determined and quite capable of realizing his goals. On the basis of my experience of teaching him, I urge you to favourably consider his application.
Yours sincerely, Deborah Rose 1-876-837-9135
OFFICIAL DOCuMENTS CSEC CERTIFICATE CSEC CERTIFICATE CSEC CERTIFICATE CAPE CERTIFICATE CAPE GRADE SHEET SAT SCORES PAGE HIGHSCHOOL TRANSCRIPT PAGES 1 & 2
2012 2013 2014 2014 2015
IN SE RT CS EC CE RT IF IC AT E
20 12
IN SE RT CS EC CE RT IF IC AT E
20 13
IN SE RT CS EC CE RT IF IC AT E
20 14
IN SE RT CA PE CE RT IF IC AT E
20 14
IN SE RT CA PE G RA DE
SH EE T
20 15
SAMUEL RICKETTS SCHOLASTIC APTITUTE TEST RESULT JANUARY 2015
IN SE RT SC PA HO G OL E 1 TRA NS CR IP T
HI G H
IN SE RT SC PA HO G OL E 2 TR AN SC RI PT
HI G H