Carib Scope

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  • More chances to shine: US-based coaches praise SSFL Cobmine

    More chances to shine: US-based coaches praise SSFL Cobmine

    Trinidad’s emerging football stars showcased their skills to international college coaches during the three-day 2025 Football Combine and Showcase held at TTDF Reserve Grounds in Macqueripe from December 12-14. The collaborative event, organized by the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL), Next Level Performance TT (NLP), and youth development program Pro Series, drew praise from American college scouts who witnessed exceptional talent among both male and female participants.

    Junior Galvan, assistant coach of Butler Community College’s women’s program, and Grace Houchin, assistant coach for both men’s and women’s programs at Murray State College, were among the international observers assessing approximately 80 young athletes. They were joined by former Trinidad and Tobago national team player Leslie “Tiger” Fitzpatrick, now head of Pro Player Pathway at New York Red Bulls Academy, who provided professional evaluation of the prospects.

    The combine revealed several standout performers across gender divisions. Among female participants, defender Kaitlyn Darwent and attacking midfielder Orielle captured attention on the opening day, with Ty’Kaiya Dennis, Zyesha Potts, and St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain duo Scarlett Cole and Daneelyah Salandy maintaining strong performances throughout the event. The male contingent featured impressive displays from Fatima College’s Seth Hadeed and Phillip Nelson, St Anthony’s College representatives Jaeden Bobb and Adriel Faure, Joshua Miguel from St Mary’s College, Queen’s Royal College’s Jalano Straker, and St Benedict’s College playmaker Josiah Ochoa.

    NLP celebrated the third edition of the combine as a resounding success, noting representation from athletes across all zones of Trinidad and Tobago, including members of current under-20 and under-17 national teams. Visiting coaches expressed particular admiration for both the technical quality and cultural environment, with many indicating eagerness to return for future recruitment opportunities.

    Coach Galvan emphasized the significance of cultural background in player development, stating, “The culture plays a massive role in the kid’s talent, but also the person. I met amazing kids with great people skills willing to be coachable and that’s a testament to their families.” Coach Houchin added, “The NLP Combine was an amazing opportunity for not only myself as a coach to experience first-hand the amazing young talent of TT, but also for the players to showcase themselves.”

    The organization clarified that the combine represents merely the beginning of recruitment possibilities, as their digital platform continues to provide exposure for all participants. Through the Next Level Performance TT App, athletes maintain connectivity with coaches from National Junior College Athletic Association, National College Athletic Association, and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics programs, ensuring ongoing scouting opportunities beyond the live event.

  • Makeda Bain claims three RBC Junior tennis titles

    Makeda Bain claims three RBC Junior tennis titles

    The 2025 RBC Junior Tennis Tournament concluded in spectacular fashion at Trinidad’s National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua on December 18, with emerging stars Makeda Bain and Christopher Khan delivering exceptional performances across multiple age categories.

    Christopher Khan demonstrated remarkable mental fortitude in the boys’ Under-16 singles final against top-seeded Josiah Hills. After dropping the first set 3-6, Khan mounted a impressive comeback to claim the second set 6-4, forcing a decisive third set. The thrilling contest reached its climax with Khan securing an 11-9 victory in the final set tiebreak. Khan’s triumph extended to the Under-18 category where he received a walkover victory as Hills was unable to compete in the scheduled final.

    Makeda Bain mirrored Khan’s success with her own double championship achievement. In the girls’ Under-16 final, Bain overcame a determined challenge from Cyra Ramcharan, prevailing with identical 6-4 set scores. Her Under-18 final appearance against Madison Khan showcased Bain’s competitive resilience as she recovered from a first-set deficit (5-7) to dominate the subsequent sets 6-2, 6-1.

    Bain completed her tournament supremacy by capturing the senior girls’ doubles title alongside Madison Khan, defeating the sister pairing of Cyra and Suri Ramcharan with a commanding 6-0, 6-2 victory.

    The tournament featured numerous other notable performances across various age divisions. Augustus Wiley claimed the division two senior boys’ singles title against Nathan Agarwal (5-3, 4-2), while Zayden Sagramsingh emerged victorious in a tightly contested boys’ 10-and-Under final against Ryan Chin (2-4, 4-2, 10-5).

    In girls’ competition, Samiyah Mohammed captured the 14-and-Under singles championship after a three-set battle with Suri Ramcharan (6-4, 1-6, 10-8), while Soraya Ali triumphed in division two senior girls’ singles against Daniella Sambrano (5-4, 4-2).

    The doubles competitions concluded with Nirav Dougdeen and Josiah Hills claiming the senior boys’ title after a hard-fought match against Oliver Harragin and Christopher Khan (6-7, 6-4, 11-9).

  • Trinidad and Tobago Under-17s eliminated in Jewels tournament

    Trinidad and Tobago Under-17s eliminated in Jewels tournament

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Under-17 women’s football team faced tournament elimination following a 2-1 defeat against Jamaica in the DecembHER Football – Jewels of the Caribbean competition on December 17. The critical match at Sangre Grande Recreational Ground witnessed dramatic developments including a red card and power outage that impacted gameplay dynamics.

    Jamaica established an early advantage in the 22nd minute when Ricquanna Richards capitalized on a rebound after Trinidadian goalkeeper Zofia Richards initially blocked a sharp-angled attempt. The Caribbean rivals maintained intense pressure until Nikita Gosine equalized for Trinidad and Tobago via a powerfully converted penalty kick in the 32nd minute.

    The match’s momentum shifted decisively during first-half stoppage time when Trinidadian defender Gyasi Lewis received a straight red card for a professional foul, reducing the squad to ten players for the entire second period. Despite numerical disadvantage, Trinidad and Tobago demonstrated resilient defensive organization until Beth Miller’s 56th-minute breakthrough secured Jamaica’s victory. Miller exhibited exceptional technical control to navigate a long aerial pass before finishing from close range after her initial shot was parried.

    An unexpected power interruption temporarily suspended play in the 63rd minute, adding another layer of disruption to Trinidad and Tobago’s comeback efforts. The defeat follows Trinidad’s 4-0 opening loss to United States-based club Indy Premier SC, confirming their elimination from final contention.

    In related tournament action, Jamaica’s Under-20 squad drew 2-2 with Indy Premier SC at Hasely Crawford Stadium on December 18, with both teams accumulating four points in group standings. Trinidad and Tobago’s Under-20 team was scheduled to conclude group stage proceedings against a Trinidad Women’s League Football selection following press deadlines.

  • Colin R. Maynard Sworn In as Member of the Industrial Court

    Colin R. Maynard Sworn In as Member of the Industrial Court

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s judicial landscape, Colin R. Maynard has been formally sworn in as a new member of the nation’s Industrial Court. The ceremony, presided over by President Christine Kangaloo at the President’s House in St. Ann’s, marks a pivotal appointment to this crucial legal institution.

    The Industrial Court serves as a specialized judicial body with jurisdiction over trade disputes, unfair labor practice complaints, and matters pertaining to the interpretation of collective agreements. Mr. Maynard’s appointment arrives at a critical time for the nation’s labor relations framework, potentially influencing future rulings on worker rights and employer obligations.

    Prior to this judicial appointment, Maynard established a formidable reputation as a seasoned attorney with extensive expertise in labor and industrial relations law. His legal career is distinguished by a deep understanding of the complex interplay between workforce legislation and economic development. This professional background positions him as a valuable asset to the court’s deliberations on increasingly sophisticated employment matters.

    President Kangaloo, during the swearing-in proceedings, emphasized the profound responsibility inherent in judicial service. She articulated expectations for Maynard’s tenure, highlighting the imperative for fairness, wisdom, and unwavering integrity in discharging his duties. The President’s address underscored the court’s vital role in maintaining social stability through equitable dispute resolution.

    This appointment follows standard constitutional procedures for judicial placements within Trinidad and Tobago’s legal system. The Industrial Court’s composition typically features members with diverse legal and industrial expertise, ensuring balanced perspectives on the disputes brought before it. Maynard’s induction contributes to this diversity of thought and experience on the bench.

    The legal community has responded positively to this development, with several prominent labor attorneys noting Maynard’s reputation for meticulous legal analysis and impartiality. His tenure is anticipated to strengthen the court’s capacity for rendering judgments that balance employee protections with sustainable business practices, ultimately fostering a more harmonious industrial relations environment in Trinidad and Tobago.

  • Music Fest Sent Lisi is here again

    Music Fest Sent Lisi is here again

    The highly anticipated Music Fest Sent Lisi, renowned as the Southern Caribbean’s signature musical extravaganza, makes its triumphant return to showcase the region’s most promising emerging artists. Scheduled for December 20th at Vieux Fort’s Phillip Marcelin Grounds, the festival will transform into a vibrant hub of musical innovation from 3 PM onward.

    Central to this year’s festivities is the Youth Star Contest, which will crown its champion from finalists meticulously selected throughout November. These aspiring musicians will demonstrate their artistry across diverse genres including jazz, gospel, dancehall, reggae, calypso, soca, rap, hip-hop, R&B, Dennery segment, and the increasingly popular Afrobeats.

    Ten exceptional performers will compete for prestigious honors including over $20,000 in cash prizes and the coveted title of Youth Star of the Year. The event will feature special appearances by reigning champion Vic Nation alongside established artists J Swain, Travo, Ashe’, Vun, Kristian Lawrence, Zidane, MNR, Wade, and Al the Artist, who will present a special duet performance with Eddie Bellas.

    Ashe’, who secured joint second position in last year’s competition, emphasized the festival’s significance for developing artists. “My debut experience last year exposed me to an entirely different performance environment compared to the calypso arena I’ve known,” Ashe’ reflected. “The platform provided invaluable learning opportunities through peer interaction and genuine camaraderie.”

    First-time participant Wade drew inspiration from supporting friends in previous editions. His competition entry ‘Desire’ represents an innovative fusion of dancehall and R&B rhythms. “I bring a distinctive musical perspective and unconventional style that I’m eager to share with wider audiences,” Wade explained.

    The festival will also showcase performers who dominated the 2025 music scene, including Piton Soca Starz winner Remote, Groovy Monarch Imran Nerdy, Alley Kyatt, Brii Music, Michael Robinson, Arthur Allain, and Cooyah. Special guest Reo, the Bouyon Prince from Dominica, will deliver his hit tracks ‘I Know Why’ and ‘Life Sweet’.

    Organizers envision creating an electrifying family-friendly atmosphere where Saint Lucian emerging talents and established performers will unite through captivating lyrics and infectious rhythms, delivering an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

  • UWI and CCRIF joint fellowship aims to bolster Caribbean’s contribution to climate change science

    UWI and CCRIF joint fellowship aims to bolster Caribbean’s contribution to climate change science

    The University of the West Indies (UWI) has partnered with CCRIF SPC to establish a pioneering postdoctoral fellowship program specifically dedicated to climate change detection and attribution research. This innovative initiative, valued at US$50,000, represents CCRIF’s first direct investment in postdoctoral research and aims to enhance regional expertise in tropical cyclone modeling and climate attribution science.

    Dr. Jhordanne Jones, a distinguished UWI alumna and NOAA Climate and Global Change Fellow who serves as a Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), has been selected as the inaugural fellow. Her research will develop sophisticated hurricane simulations, analyze damage statistics, and facilitate public engagement activities, positioning UWI and the Caribbean region as significant contributors to global climate science.

    Professor Densil A. Williams, Principal of UWI Mona Campus, emphasized the fellowship’s importance: “This investment will enable UWI to develop the specialized expertise necessary to guide evidence-based policy decisions, ensuring our communities can rebuild with greater resilience.”

    The program has already yielded significant preliminary findings. Analysis of Hurricane Beryl (2024) revealed wind speeds exceeding historical records, ranking among the top 5% of storms under projected warming scenarios. Research on Hurricane Melissa (2025) demonstrated that climate change contributed to approximately 7% higher wind speeds, 16% increased rainfall, and made rapid intensification six times more likely—highlighting the adaptation challenges facing small island nations.

    This fellowship expands upon a longstanding collaboration between UWI and CCRIF that has provided over US$1.8 million in scholarships, internships, and project funding since 2010. The institutions are collectively advancing Caribbean leadership in climate science, resilience finance, and global climate justice advocacy.

    Professor Michael Taylor, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology and Co-Director of UWI’s Climate Studies Group Mona, noted: “CCRIF’s support for detection and attribution science is truly visionary. By funding research that directly connects extreme weather events to climate change, CCRIF is helping position Caribbean science at the forefront of global climate justice initiatives.”

  • Spike in respiratory illnesses, traffic injuries strains QEH A&E

    Spike in respiratory illnesses, traffic injuries strains QEH A&E

    The Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department is confronting unprecedented operational pressures as simultaneous surges in respiratory illnesses and motor vehicle accident injuries create critical capacity constraints. Hospital administration has officially acknowledged that this dual health crisis has significantly disrupted patient flow and reduced the department’s ability to accommodate new cases effectively.

    While the hospital’s triage protocol ensures immediate attention for life-threatening conditions, patients presenting with less urgent medical concerns should anticipate substantially prolonged waiting periods. The institution has implemented strategic measures to address the overwhelming demand, including a public advisory urging individuals to seek preliminary guidance before visiting the emergency facility.

    A dedicated Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) has been activated to provide initial assessments and medical direction. This service operates via regular calls and WhatsApp messaging at 536-4800 from 8:00 a.m. until midnight daily. Hospital officials emphasize that this pre-screening mechanism aims to optimize resource allocation and prioritize critical cases.

    For non-emergency medical needs, the QEH recommends alternative treatment options including the 24-hour clinic at the Winston Scott Polyclinic on Jemmotts Lane, St Michael, or consultation with private physicians when available. The hospital administration has expressed regret for resulting inconveniences while simultaneously commending public patience and understanding during this period of exceptional demand on healthcare services.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Olympic Association Confirms New Executive at Elective Annual General Meeting

    Antigua and Barbuda Olympic Association Confirms New Executive at Elective Annual General Meeting

    The Antigua and Barbuda National Olympic Committee (ABNOC) has formally inaugurated its new executive leadership following a decisive Elective Annual General Meeting held Tuesday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. The assembly marked a significant transition in the nation’s Olympic governance structure.

    In the only contested election of the proceedings, Mr. Thomas Greenaway emerged victorious to claim the position of 1st Vice President. All other executive appointments were confirmed without opposition, resulting in a comprehensive leadership team ready to steer the committee’s forthcoming initiatives.

    The newly ratified executive committee comprises:
    – President: Hon. E. P. Chet Greene MP
    – 1st Vice President: Mr. Thomas Greenaway
    – 2nd Vice President: Dr. Philmore Benjamin
    – 3rd Vice President: Ms. Karen Joseph
    – Treasurer: Mrs. Yolanda Samuel
    – Ordinary Members: Mr. Charles Bellot, Mr. Franklyn Braithwaite, Ms. Kebra Nanton, Mr. Leonard Mussington, Mrs. Shorna Charles-Joseph, Ms. Dionne Isaacs, and Mr. Fitzroy Quinland

    During his inaugural address, President Hon. E. P. Chet Greene expressed gratitude to member federations for their sustained trust and acknowledged the contributions of outgoing member Mr. Neil Cochrane for his dedicated service across two previous executive terms.

    President Greene articulated a clear vision for his administration, emphasizing that ABNOC has entered an ‘action mode’ phase focused on deliverable objectives, strengthened collaboration, and measurable outcomes in national sports development.

    In subsequent administrative appointments, the newly formed board confirmed Mr. Cliff Williams as Secretary General and Mr. Joel Rayne as Assistant Secretary General, ensuring organizational continuity and enhanced operational capacity.

    The committee reaffirmed its dedication to fostering productive relationships with member federations and strategic partners to advance the Olympic movement throughout Antigua and Barbuda through focused, results-oriented leadership.

  • English Harbour Clubs to Close at 3 a.m. on Weekends Under New Rules

    English Harbour Clubs to Close at 3 a.m. on Weekends Under New Rules

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has enacted a comprehensive noise management strategy for English Harbour, establishing definitive operational timelines for nightlife establishments while designating enforcement authority to the National Parks Authority and Royal Police Force. This policy formulation emerged from extensive stakeholder consultations involving local residents, property owners, hospitality representatives, business proprietors, and law enforcement agencies, aiming to reconcile residential tranquility with the economic vitality of the region’s entertainment sector.

    Communications Director Maurice Merchant confirmed the cabinet’s endorsement of a balanced regulatory compromise that safeguards residential amenities while sustaining tourism, cultural expression, and commercial enterprise. The implemented framework mandates 3:00 AM closing times for nightclubs and entertainment venues during Fridays and Saturdays, with earlier 1:00 AM conclusions from Sundays through Thursdays.

    Notably, the policy incorporates flexibility for major cultural and tourism events including Sailing Week, national holidays, and special occasions, where extended operating hours may receive authorization through the National Parks Authority. Minister E.P. Chet Greene emphasized the policy’s constructive nature, clarifying that the objective centers on regulatory harmony rather than entertainment suppression.

    Daytime operations face equally stringent standards, with explicit prohibitions against noise nuisance and requirements for maintained acoustic limits. Establishments must implement sound mitigation measures including directional speaker configuration and reduced amplification to minimize auditory dispersion.

    Joint enforcement responsibilities fall upon the National Parks Authority and Royal Police Force, employing graduated compliance mechanisms beginning with advisory warnings and escalating to penalties for recurrent violations. The authority will additionally manage community notifications regarding approved extended hours.

    The cabinet has committed to post-implementation evaluation, particularly following major events, with potential adjustments based on compliance metrics, community input, and operational efficacy. Government officials anticipate this measured approach will sustain English Harbour’s status as a preeminent cultural and tourism destination while ensuring residential quality of life.

  • LIVE: UWP Press Conference 18th Dec 2025

    LIVE: UWP Press Conference 18th Dec 2025

    In a groundbreaking astronomical revelation, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has captured an extraordinarily detailed image of the protostar HH 212, located approximately 1,300 light-years away in the Orion constellation. This latest discovery provides unprecedented insights into the early stages of star formation, showcasing symmetric pink ejections that represent material being expelled as the infant star evolves.

    The newly released image reveals intricate details never before observed, including remarkably balanced bipolar jets emanating from the protostar’s poles. These jets, extending over light-years in distance, exhibit near-perfect symmetry that has astonished astronomers. The precision of these structures offers crucial evidence about the formation processes of stars similar to our Sun during their earliest developmental phases.

    Dr. Mark McCaughrean, Senior Advisor for Science and Exploration at the European Space Agency, emphasized the significance of this discovery: ‘Webb’s infrared capabilities allow us to peer through the cosmic dust that has previously obscured our view of these stellar nurseries. What we’re seeing is essentially the birth process of a star system, with incredible clarity that transforms our understanding of stellar evolution.’

    The observation provides critical data for astrophysicists studying how stars accumulate mass and how bipolar jets influence their surrounding interstellar environment. The symmetry observed in HH 212’s jets suggests these processes are far more organized and structured than previously theorized, potentially rewriting established models of star formation.

    This discovery marks another triumph for the James Webb Space Telescope, which continues to exceed scientific expectations since becoming operational in 2022. The telescope’s advanced infrared instruments have opened new windows into cosmic phenomena that were previously invisible to ground-based telescopes and the Hubble Space Telescope.

    The research team continues to analyze the data from HH 212, expecting further revelations about the physics governing star birth and the formation of planetary systems. These findings could ultimately shed light on the origins of our own solar system and the conditions that make planetary systems habitable.