The National Sports Awards has revealed its prestigious shortlist for the 2025 Senior Sportswoman of the Year, showcasing an exceptional roster of female athletes and administrators who have brought distinction to Antigua and Barbuda through their remarkable accomplishments in regional and international competitions.
This distinguished category honors women who demonstrate unparalleled excellence, resilience, and transformative impact across diverse sporting disciplines. The nominees represent a wide spectrum of athletic pursuits, from traditional track and field to emerging sports, highlighting the nation’s growing sporting diversity.
Track sensation Joella Lloyd achieved a breakthrough season, shattering national records in both the 60-meter and 100-meter events while reaching the semifinals at the World Indoor Championships. Her performance earned her a professional contract, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Cricket standout Shawnisha Hector secured a senior retainer contract with Cricket West Indies following impressive displays during the T20 Blaze Tournament, signaling her ascent in international cricket circles.
Seventeen-year-old football prodigy Gabrielle DeSuza emerged as a top scorer for both Senior Women’s and Under-20 National Teams, capturing MVP honors and demonstrating exceptional skill in international play.
Fencing champion Jewel Crump successfully defended her national title while representing the country abroad, while golfer Kimberlyn Weatherill claimed multiple championships including the Antigua and Barbuda Open Ladies Net title and Eastern Caribbean Golf Championship.
Netball leader Everdine Parker-Barnarde guided her club to victory in the Village League while competing internationally, and sailor Emily Gaillard balanced academic pursuits with podium finishes on competitive U.S. circuits.
Bodybuilding ambassador Melissa Seaforth achieved world championship status at the IFBB Bikini Fitness Pro Masters competition in Malta, adding multiple European podium finishes to her credentials.
Swimming history was made by Aunjelique Liddie at CARIFTA, becoming the first Antiguan female to break the 59-second barrier in the 100-meter freestyle and 27 seconds in the 50-meter freestyle, while securing numerous medals and national records.
Volleyball athlete Jassania Joseph secured the ABAVA Local League title and contributed to a silver medal victory at the ECVA Under-21 Tournament, while cricket captain Sacha Michael led her club to dual championship titles with significant personal contributions of 223 runs and seven wickets.
In sports administration, Jnai received recognition for her organizational leadership within the Antigua Barbuda Basketball Association, where she supervised over 400 games and coordinated the association’s premier awards ceremony.
Event organizers emphasized that these awards celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women who continue to inspire national pride and elevate the country’s sporting profile through their dedication and excellence.