Cal Blankendal has launched a “one-stop resource” to help the development of the island’s student-athletes.

Blankendal, a former Bermuda Football Association vice-president, has been involved in the local game for many years and believes his experience can benefit youngsters requiring guidance and support.

He recently set up the Bermuda Sports Management Group, a “bespoke service” which offers life-skills training, assists in securing overseas scholarships and finding employment after graduating.

“Parents are always asking me for assistance or support,” said Blankendal, who formed Bermuda’s Brazilian Football School more than a decade ago.

“Whether it’s ‘come and talk to my son on a social level’, ‘my son needs help looking a job’, ‘can you help train my son’ or ‘my son is looking for a college or boarding school’.

“Those conversations have usually centred around my roles at the BFA, the BBFS, Dandy Town [where Blankendal assists with the youth programme] or just on the street.

“I want to make it more streamlined and professional, so anyone on the island can reach out to me.”

Blankendal hopes to “fill in the gaps” for parents unaware of the SAT and PSAT timelines and deadlines, as well as helping their children to prepare them for further education.

“I’m looking to sit down and talk, get a profile of the player and learn about their interests,” added Blankendal, who said fees would be based on the personal development plan of each student-athlete.

“We can help create an opportunity by working on their weaknesses and improving their strengths, athletically and academically. It’s not just about finding the right boarding school; it’s about preparing them mentally, socially and making sure they are on track with their studies,” he said.

“You can be the best player but if you don’t have the grades the school isn’t going to offer you a scholarship.

“If you haven’t done the required course work, they’re not going to offer you a scholarship. The higher the academics you have, the more attractive you are to the school.”

Blankendal says he has forged relationships with several boarding schools and colleges, along with their athletic directors, particularly through his role as the BBFS chief executive.

“If [a college or boarding school] hear about a Bermudian player, it helps if they are already aware of the mentality, the culture and the core attributes our of players,” Blankendal said.

“If you have a relationship with a coach and he knows a few players from the island, it becomes an easier process when you next recommend a player.

“It’s also important to have coaches visit the island on a regular basis.

“Through the Bermuda Sports Management and BBFS, we’ve had coaches come in April, June and again in October. We’re also trying to have an MLS academy coach visit the island.”

Blankendal, who has already helped place three student-athletes in overseas education, also helps fix professional and semi-professional trials for local hopefuls.

“We’re also working with those players 21 and above who are looking playing opportunities overseas — individuals who can branch over to the United States and Europe. You don’t have to be the English Premier League to make a career out of the game.

“There are opportunities in professional leagues in other countries and the semi-pro level.”

Blankendal added: “We’re also looking at those children who are close to dropping out of school. Can we keep them in school and keep them in the game. It’s not solely about getting someone overseas.”

For more details e-mail calvinbda@gmail.com