high school according to Bermuda School Sports Federation (BSSF) administrator Clint Smith.

The director would be charged with coordinating and overseeing the activities programme, much in the same way that colleges and universities overseas have persons in charge of coaches for various sports.

"My opinion is that they will require an athletic director in addition to the regular P.E. staff,'' said Smith yesterday.

"When they (Government) start thinking about staffing at the school that is something that should be given serious consideration.

"You can't have an institution like that -- of such size -- and not employ someone to oversee activities.'' Smith, who is currently charged with organising the various extra-curricular activities -- mostly sports -- for the Island's schools, added that the position would require an individual possessing sound educational experience as well as a keen knowledge of sports.

He would not be drawn into naming any person who might fit the bill. Asked if he might be interested in the position himself Smith said he wanted to be "in charge of the athletic director''.

"I see the individual -- if one is selected -- as being key in setting the climate at the school, being able to harness the excess energy that kids that age have and channelling it in a positive direction.

"Kids are saying that there isn't enough things to do and that's where the athletic director comes in and any and all activities implemented have to be well coordinated.'' Much has been said of the single high school concept, with Bermuda Union of Teachers president Mike Charles openly opposing the move on Monday, but Smith preferred to look on the positive side, suggesting that the system could work and had been "carefully thought out'' to ensure that it does.

"Most people fear change more than the concept itself,'' said Smith. "The antennae go up as soon as there is talk of change, but this plan has been carefully thought out by the department and I have every confidence that it will work.'' One area that will have to be addressed in regard to sports is the elimination of rivalries that currently exist between the various high schools.

Smith noted that there would have to be a strong intramural programme or splitting up of students into parishes for the purpose of competition.

There was also the possibility of entering competitions abroad, at least in the major sports, but this would require an active involvement by the corporate sector and government in providing funding for travel expenses.

Said Smith: "We're a small community and with one big school there could be drawbacks, but you have to be creative.'' The Prospect-based school is scheduled to open in September, 1997.