WHEN STACEY-ANN Pearson, the Gleaner's Children's Own Spelling Bee All-Island champion stands to spell in front of thousands in Washington D.C., on June 1 and 2, her parents will be right there for support.
Florence and Wentworth Pearson will make the trip to the American capital today to watch and provide support for their daughter who will be on, so far, the biggest stage of her career. With the absence of coach Rev. Glen Archer due to illness, it seems she will need their support even more.
The Gleaner caught up with the Pearsons on Thursday afternoon. Mom is confident that Stacey-Ann is ready.
"She's up to the challenge. She has been able to do what is required. Our assistance at this point is strictly moral support. They (Rev. Archer and Stacey-Ann) have gone way beyond my field of expertise. I can't even pronounce the words," she jokes.
PROVIDE MOTIVATION
"We encourage her and talk to her; provide motivation. Just to give her a hug sometimes and tell her, you are a champion," adds Mr. Pearson. He works with the Jamaica Union of Travellers Association (JUTA) St. Ann chapter and so much of his time is spent in the rural areas. But the family sticks together; whether at home or travelling together. In fact, togetherness and team spirit are indicative of the Pearsons. Whether it was transporting their daughter to and from her training sessions or assisting Rev. Archer when he fell ill, they have been there.
Mr. Pearson also believes that Stacey-Ann is quite prepared for the challenge.
"The type of training that she has been doing, if the other children beat her, then they must be really good." Though he speaks confidently, he admits that he might be more nervous than she is.
When she was at the parish finals, I purposely made myself absent from the room. I preferred to stay outside and listen. In Washington, I'll have to find a way to stay in the room," he chuckled.
The Scripps Howard Competition takes place between June 1 and 2.
