Antigua and Barbuda’s sporting future shines brightly as the National Sports Awards reveals an impressive roster of nominees for the prestigious 2025 Junior Sportsman of the Year honor. This distinguished recognition celebrates the nation’s most promising young athletes who have demonstrated extraordinary excellence across diverse sporting disciplines throughout the competitive season.
Among the standout contenders, sprinter Gideon Roberts earns his nomination following an undefeated campaign that saw him capture multiple national titles while establishing a new championship record at the NACAC Age Group Championships. The basketball court witnessed Tajahron Davis’ exceptional leadership as he guided Clare Hall Secondary School to both league and playoff championships, subsequently earning Male Player of the Year honors while extending his dominance to club and regional competitions.
Cricket sensation Matthew Miller, merely sixteen years of age, enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough season that culminated in his selection for the West Indies Under-19 squad. His outstanding performance included accumulating 930 runs and claiming 55 wickets across various competitions while serving as team captain. Cyclist Tahje Browne demonstrated his pedal prowess by securing multiple national junior titles and capturing bronze at the Caribbean Junior Cycling Championships before taking his talents to Europe with the Zappi Junior Development Team.
Football prospect Dajari Barthley achieved the rare feat of balancing academic excellence with elite athletic performance in England while representing Antigua and Barbuda’s Under-20 national team. Sailor Shanoy Malone dominated the Caribbean Dinghy Championships with an impressive 13 victories in 15 races, captaining his nation to victory while achieving international podium finishes and qualification for the Junior Pan American Games.
Swimming star Alessandro Bazzoni reached the podium in all six of his events at CARIFTA, securing three gold medals while shattering multiple age-group records, including a long-standing OECS mark. Table tennis talent Mekhi Simmons claimed several Under-19 titles and secured regional gold in Mixed Doubles at the OECS Championships, competing successfully against both junior and open division opponents.
Multi-sport phenomenon Elite Thomas demonstrated exceptional versatility by winning gold at the Rainbow Cup Triathlon while maintaining an undefeated national record in junior cycling and excelling in local road running events. Volleyball standout Asafa Donovan completed a strong season by leading his school to an undefeated championship run, earning MVP honors while capturing both gold and silver medals in regional competition.
Award organizers have emphasized that these exceptional young athletes represent the vibrant future of Antiguan and Barbudan sports, with the ceremony serving to celebrate their remarkable achievements and dedication to sporting excellence.