Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Sports : FIFA notes improvements in football governance in Haiti

    Sports : FIFA notes improvements in football governance in Haiti

    In a significant development for Caribbean football, FIFA has formally extended the mandate of Haiti’s Normalization Committee through November 30, 2026, recognizing substantial improvements in the nation’s football governance despite ongoing national challenges.

    The Haitian Football Federation (FHF) received official communication from world football’s governing body acknowledging concrete advancements in multiple areas. The extension comes as validation of the reform initiatives implemented through collaboration between FIFA, CONCACAF, and FHF members over recent years.

    Key governance improvements highlighted include the substantial progression in revising statutory frameworks and federal regulations. Additionally, FIFA noted the successful implementation and expansion of the club licensing system, which has elevated operational standards across 56 clubs and academies, ensuring enhanced management transparency and professional conduct.

    Remarkably, these administrative advancements have been achieved against the backdrop of significant national instability, making the progress particularly noteworthy.

    Sporting accomplishments formed a central part of FIFA’s assessment, with historic achievements across multiple national teams. The senior women’s squad made their inaugural World Cup finals appearance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking a watershed moment for gender equality in Haitian sports. The U-17 national team secured qualification for the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup, demonstrating the vitality of youth development programs. Most notably, the men’s national team achieved historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, serving as a powerful symbol of national resilience.

    FIFA acknowledged that certain critical milestones, including final statutory adoption and electoral processes, remain pending due to external factors beyond the Federation’s control, particularly Haiti’s ongoing political and security crisis.

    The Normalization Committee has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing its mandate with rigorous dedication and responsible governance. As Haiti prepares for its return to global football prominence, the FHF has issued a call for unity, cooperation, and calm among all stakeholders in national football.

  • Shallow’s election win tests Cricket West Indies boundaries

    Shallow’s election win tests Cricket West Indies boundaries

    The decisive victory of the National Democratic Party (NDP) in St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ 2025 elections has introduced potential administrative complications for Cricket West Indies (CWI). The NDP secured a commanding 14-1 parliamentary majority over Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves’ Saint Vincent Labour Party on November 27.

    Among the elected NDP representatives is Dr. Kishore Shallow, the currently serving president of CWI. As a prominent figure within Prime Minister-elect Dr. Godwin Friday’s victorious administration, Dr. Shallow is anticipated to assume representation for North Leeward constituency and potentially receive appointment to a senior ministerial portfolio. This development creates an unprecedented scenario for Caribbean cricket governance.

    The CWI constitutional framework lacks explicit provisions addressing such circumstances, despite historical precedents involving political figures. Former West Indies Cricket Board president Julian Hunte of Saint Lucia abstained from elective politics during his tenure, while Trinidadian executive Ken Gordon received senatorial appointment only after concluding his presidential term.

    Should Dr. Shallow determine that his governmental responsibilities necessitate resignation from cricket leadership, CWI’s first vice-president Azim Bassarath of Trinidad and Tobago would presumably assume acting presidential duties. This interim arrangement would persist until the regional cricket governing body conducts formal elections to determine permanent leadership.

    Concurrently, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has recently reinforced regulations concerning political interference in cricket administration. During the 2025 full council meeting in Hong Kong, ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgath emphasized that these reforms align cricket governance with global sporting standards, citing concerns about governmental agencies influencing member boards’ affairs.

    This regulatory context underscores the significance of Dr. Shallow’s impending decision regarding his dual roles. The CWI executive and directors are advised to thoroughly examine ICC statutes, particularly as board representation was present during the Hong Kong deliberations that established these governance protocols.

  • Barbados’ young rowers make waves in historic Commonwealth Beach Sprints

    Barbados’ young rowers make waves in historic Commonwealth Beach Sprints

    In an extraordinary display of athletic prowess, Barbados has dramatically outperformed expectations at the 2025 Commonwealth Rowing Association Beach Sprints Championships. Hosted for the first time in regional history on Barbadian shores, the event witnessed this small island nation challenge rowing giants including England, Canada, Australia, and South Africa.

    Fielding a modest team of just five athletes—three of them juniors—Barbados achieved the remarkable feat of securing four medals from five competitive entries. This stunning accomplishment not only captivated spectators and international officials but also signaled the nation’s emergence as a potential future powerhouse in global rowing.

    The championship, held from November 21-23 at Browne’s Beach, generated electrifying energy as young Barbadian rowers demonstrated exceptional skill and composure. Theodore Spieler, making his international debut, captured dual silver medals in the U-19 single scull and mixed doubles events alongside Lucy Tomlin, who likewise earned silver in the same category. In another impressive achievement, 18-year-old Jon-Luke Wiggins secured bronze in the U-19 single scull despite having only two weeks of intensive water training due to equipment limitations.

    Further highlighting the team’s depth, James Lamboll placed fourth overall in the U-21 category during his inaugural coastal beach sprint competition, while senior athlete Christian Howard finished eighth in the Men’s Single Scull despite recovering from a significant two-year injury.

    Dr. Anthony Yarde, President of the Barbados Rowing Association, emphasized the significance of these achievements: “This proves that with even limited resources, Barbados can produce world-class athletes at the highest levels of competition.”

    The team’s performance garnered formal recognition from Commonwealth Rowing Association President Peter Cookson, who officially endorsed the nomination of Tomlin, Spieler, and Wiggins to represent Barbados at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. Cookson praised their technical skill, competitiveness, and rapid development as “particularly satisfying.”

    However, this success story is tempered by infrastructure challenges. Dr. Yarde revealed an urgent crisis: the very boats that enabled these achievements now face uncertain storage conditions. Ten essential boats provided through the Ministry of Sports and National Sports Council must be relocated from their temporary storage at Browne’s Beach, with no suitable permanent facility available.

    “We need a home base close to the beach,” Yarde explained. “These heavy boats cannot be transported daily. Without a permanent training site and proper equipment access, we cannot adequately prepare our young athletes for the Youth Olympics.”

    While acknowledging support from the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and the Barbados Olympic Association, Yarde emphasized that corporate partnership would be essential for establishing a proper rowing facility. Such infrastructure would not only protect equipment but also serve as a national training center and potential regional development hub.

    Barbados’ coastline offers one of the world’s optimal natural environments for beach rowing, perfectly suited for both training and hosting international competitions. The successful Commonwealth event generated substantial sports tourism benefits, receiving enthusiastic reviews from overseas competitors and providing significant economic impact for local businesses during the championships.

    The nation’s junior athletes have now surpassed competitors from traditional rowing strongholds, earning international admiration and official Olympic backing—a testament to homegrown talent developed against considerable odds.

  • FOR LOVE OF COUNTRY

    FOR LOVE OF COUNTRY

    In a heartfelt homecoming, Miguel Coley has rejoined Jamaica’s national football program as assistant head coach, framing his appointment not merely as a professional opportunity but as a patriotic duty to a nation recovering from Hurricane Melissa’s devastation.

    The 43-year-old tactician, previously an assistant under Winfried Schäfer from 2014-2016, will partner with Interim Head Coach Rudolph Speid on a short-term basis. Their primary objective is securing Jamaica’s qualification for the FIFA World Cup through the inter-confederation play-offs scheduled in Mexico next March.

    Having spent recent years coaching in the Middle East, Coley brings enhanced experience to the role, though he emphasizes his motivation transcends football. ‘My country means the world to me,’ Coley told the Jamaica Observer, ‘and this is a great opportunity to give of myself, my knowledge and expertise.’

    The catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa profoundly affected Coley from abroad, strengthening his resolve to contribute meaningfully. Witnessing the suffering in parishes like St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and Trelawny—areas where he once coached local players—left an emotional imprint that catalyzed his decision to return.

    Despite a seven-year absence from Jamaica, Coley maintains he has consistently monitored the Reggae Boyz through player communications, game analysis, and ongoing dialogue with the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF). This sustained engagement, he believes, positions him to offer valuable insights during the critical qualifying phase.

    While reserved in discussing specifics about playoff opponents New Caledonia and DR Congo, Coley expressed confidence in the squad’s preparedness and focus. He also confirmed that his current club, Zakho SC in Iraq, has granted him leave to support Jamaica’s World Cup campaign.

    Regarding future leadership aspirations, Coley acknowledged the challenges faced as a Jamaican coach in internationally dominated leagues but remains focused immediately on qualification: ‘My primary focus is on achieving the best possible results for the Reggae Boyz.’

  • No fluke as Jamaica defeat Puerto Rico a second time at FIBA qualifiers

    No fluke as Jamaica defeat Puerto Rico a second time at FIBA qualifiers

    In a stunning repeat performance, Jamaica’s national basketball team secured their second consecutive victory against heavily favored Puerto Rico with a 97-92 triumph in Monday night’s Group B FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifier clash in San Juan. This remarkable win, coming just four days after their initial 92-90 upset, propelled Jamaica to equal standing with Canada at four points each in the qualifying group standings.

    The match unfolded as a dramatic contest that defied pre-game expectations, with world No. 95-ranked Jamaica consistently outperforming their 16th-ranked opponents. The Jamaican squad established early dominance, concluding the first quarter with a 27-19 advantage and expanding their lead to 54-41 by halftime. Their exceptional shooting accuracy, particularly an impressive 63% success rate from three-point range during the first half, laid the foundation for their commanding position.

    Chase Audige emerged as the game’s top scorer with 20 points, receiving substantial support from Romaine Thomas (18 points) and Kofi Cockburn, who delivered a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds. Tyran DeLattibeaudiere contributed significantly with 15 points to the team’s collective effort.

    Jamaica’s momentum peaked in the third quarter when they established a substantial 20-point lead, momentarily silencing the home crowd following Andrew Thelwell’s successful three-pointer. However, Puerto Rico mounted an impressive comeback effort, narrowing the deficit to just seven points entering the final quarter behind Stephen Thompson Jnr’s team-high 18 points, supported by Zakai Zeigler’s 17 points and Alexander Morales’ game-high 25 points.

    The closing minutes witnessed intense back-and-forth action, with Puerto Rico reducing Jamaica’s advantage to a precarious three points at 95-92 with merely 58 seconds remaining. Critical defensive plays, including a decisive steal by Audige and strategic clock management in the final moments, ultimately secured Jamaica’s victory. DeLattibeaudiere’s two successful free throws with 10 seconds left provided the final margin, cementing another historic win for the Jamaican team.

  • Mount Pleasant take on Dom Rep club in bid to join elite band

    Mount Pleasant take on Dom Rep club in bid to join elite band

    Jamaica’s Mount Pleasant Football Academy stands on the precipice of national sporting glory as they prepare to face Dominican Republic’s O&M FC in the decisive second leg of the Concacaf Caribbean Cup final. The historic encounter at Kingston’s National Stadium could see the St Ann-based club become just the fourth Jamaican team ever to claim regional supremacy in football.

    Having secured a narrow 1-0 victory in Santiago last Tuesday, Mount Pleasant requires only a draw to clinch the championship title. This potential victory would mark their second professional trophy following their Jamaica Premier League triumph in 2023, positioning them alongside Cavalier FC as the second Jamaican club to win the Caribbean Cup and joining the esteemed company of Harbour View FC and Portmore United as regional champions.

    Head coach Theodore Whitmore emphasized the historical significance of this moment, stating: ‘This represents the culmination of months of dedicated work from management, technical staff, and players. Our owner envisioned establishing our reputation beyond domestic competitions—we aim to become recognized throughout the Concacaf region and internationally.’

    Despite their advantageous position, Whitmore remains cautiously optimistic, acknowledging the persistent threat posed by O&M FC. The away-goal rule adds strategic complexity to the matchup, meaning any score from the Dominican visitors would force Mount Pleasant to secure an outright victory rather than relying on a draw. The Jamaican side has demonstrated defensive excellence throughout the tournament, conceding merely two goals across six matches.

    Whitmore revealed his tactical perspective: ‘Interestingly, I’m somewhat pleased we’re not entering this leg with a two-goal advantage. The single-goal margin maintains our competitive focus while trusting our defensive solidity and attacking capabilities.’

    The academy faces one significant lineup adjustment with Reggae Boy Demario Phillips suspended for the final. However, Whitmore expressed confidence in his squad’s depth: ‘With over thirty players available, we possess adequate coverage. While Demario will be missed, the show must continue.’

    Team captain Daniel Green articulated the emotional stakes: ‘Lifting this trophy would represent an immense achievement for local footballers. It would elevate our club’s profile internationally and attract greater talent to our organization.’

    With ninety minutes separating them from sporting immortality, Mount Pleasant Academy seeks to permanently inscribe their name in Caribbean football history.

  • Trinidad and Tobago come up short in Fiba 3×3 AmeriCup

    Trinidad and Tobago come up short in Fiba 3×3 AmeriCup

    In a display of relentless determination, Trinidad and Tobago’s national men’s basketball team concluded their FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup campaign in León, Mexico, over the weekend with two narrow defeats that eliminated them from knockout stage contention. The four-man squad, featuring Chike Augustine, Tyrik Singh, and the Boyd brothers—Akheel ‘Smally’ Boyd and Ahkeem ‘Fato’ Boyd—fought vigorously in Pool C but ultimately fell short against formidable North and South American opponents.

    The team’s opening match on November 28 saw a hard-fought 21-16 loss to Canada, followed by an equally intense 21-17 defeat against Argentina later that same day. Ahkeem Boyd emerged as a standout performer against Argentina, delivering a game-high ten points with remarkable accuracy from beyond the arc, sinking four of six two-point attempts. His offensive prowess kept Trinidad and Tobago competitive throughout the contest, while brother Akheel contributed six points despite struggling from perimeter range.

    Facing elimination, Trinidad and Tobago opened strong against Argentina, establishing an early 4-0 lead within the first ninety seconds courtesy of baskets from Ahkeem Boyd and Augustine. The team continued to maintain momentum, reaching ten points first and extending their advantage to 12-7 when Ahkeem connected on his third two-pointer. However, Argentina’s balanced attack—led by Juan Fernandez (7 points), Alejo Maggi (6 points), and Martin Molina (5 points)—methodically closed the gap, tying the game at 12-12 before eventually seizing control in the final minutes.

    With the score knotted at 17-17 and under two minutes remaining, Argentina executed a decisive finish. Molina converted two critical free throws to establish a 19-17 lead, before Santino Mazzucchelli sealed the victory with consecutive baskets, ending Trinidad and Tobago’s tournament hopes.

    Canada and Argentina advanced from Pool C, with Canada ultimately progressing to the semifinals. Argentina was eliminated in the quarterfinals by the United States, who claimed both the men’s and women’s championships with a dominant 21-14 victory.

  • Boxing board chairman pleased with Fight Night’s pro bout

    Boxing board chairman pleased with Fight Night’s pro bout

    In a significant development for Caribbean boxing, Trinidad and Tobago’s Anthony Joseph launched his professional career with a hard-fought victory over Venezuelan opponent Angel Hernandez. The six-round bout, which captivated spectators at the Simeon Road Basketball Court in Petit Valley on November 29, culminated in a points decision favoring the 30-year-old Trinidadian boxer.

    The event, organized by Golden Fist Promotions as their second Fight Night installment, represented more than just a single victory. It signaled a potential renaissance for professional boxing in the twin-island nation, with newly appointed Trinidad Boxing Board of Control (TBBC) chairman Kirt Sinnette hailing the occasion as a watershed moment.

    Sinnette, a former Olympian who assumed leadership on November 5, characterized the event as “the rebirth of professional boxing in TT” and emphasized its symbolic importance following his recent appointment. Through an official release dated December 1, the chairman extended congratulations to promoters for delivering what he described as an “exceptional Pro-Am event.”

    The fight card featured nine additional bouts beyond Joseph’s professional debut, showcasing emerging talent from across the region. Trinidadian boxers Eyed George and Jeremiah Thomas secured victories against Barbadian opponents Kemara Stewart and Charles Cox respectively, highlighting the event’s regional appeal. Other triumphant fighters included Joshua James, Jeromy Rodolfo (both HIIT FITT), Jahem Alexander, Joshua De Silver (Golden Fist), Aiden Rampaul (Edson Breedy Athletics), Mark Ramsingh (Fight Factory), and Abdul Taylor (Biomel).

    The TBBC expressed commitment to developing strategic partnerships with gyms, promoters, and regional federations, outlining an ambitious vision to establish Trinidad and Tobago as the Caribbean’s premier professional boxing destination. This roadmap includes creating an athlete-centered professional ecosystem, boosting sport tourism through internationally recognized events, and generating sustainable opportunities for athletes and stakeholders.

  • Farewell Jason, excellent work Barbados

    Farewell Jason, excellent work Barbados

    Veteran cricketer Jason Mohammed concluded his distinguished career with Trinidad and Tobago Red Force under emotionally challenging circumstances this past weekend. The 39-year-old batsman, who holds the record as the leading run-scorer in Super50 Cup history, managed only 12 runs in his final appearance before suffering a soft dismissal. His departure coincided with a devastating nine-wicket loss against Barbados Pride at Brian Lara Stadium, marking an unfortunate conclusion to an otherwise remarkable career.

    Psychological pressures inherent in retirement matches significantly impacted Mohammed’s performance. The emotional weight of his final inter-territorial game created heightened anxiety, disrupting the mental equilibrium essential for elite athletic performance. This psychological interference often manifests in uncharacteristic strokes and diminished concentration, precisely what occurred during Mohammed’s farewell innings.

    Despite the disappointing conclusion, Mohammed’s legacy remains untarnished. His career featured captaincy of the West Indies white-ball team and consistent performance as both a reliable batsman and valuable off-spinner. Alongside contemporaries Adrian Barath and Darren Bravo—two other exceptionally talented batsmen identified as future stars during their under-19 days—Mohammed represented the Caribbean’s cricketing promise, though all three arguably underachieved relative to their potential.

    The match itself demonstrated Barbados Pride’s tactical superiority. After winning the toss, Barbados capitalized on a challenging pitch characterized by variable bounce, significant turn for spinners, and seam movement for pacers. Bowlers Joshua Bishop and Dominic Drakes excelled with nagging lengths that stifled Red Force’s scoring opportunities, while Trinidad’s bowlers failed to adapt their tactics to the improving batting conditions, ultimately bowling with insufficient accuracy and strategic variation.

  • Club Sando whip Jabloteh, jump to TTPFL summit

    Club Sando whip Jabloteh, jump to TTPFL summit

    In a commanding display of football prowess, Club Sando ascended to the top of the TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) standings with a decisive 3-0 triumph over San Juan Jabloteh at Mahaica Sporting Complex on November 30. Under the strategic guidance of coach Angus Eve, Sando delivered their fifth victory in six seasonal outings, demonstrating both offensive flair and defensive solidity.

    The match unfolded with Sando establishing early dominance, particularly through the dynamic wing play of Real Gill, who consistently dismantled Jabloteh’s defensive structure. After creating several promising opportunities, Sando broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when striker Tarik Lee clinically finished from close range—marking his seventh goal of the campaign—following exquisite combination play between Gill and midfielder Keron Cornwall.

    Gill continued to orchestrate Sando’s attacking maneuvers, nearly doubling the advantage moments later with a perfectly weighted pass to captain Shervohnez Hamilton, only to be denied by an exceptional point-blank save from Jabloteh goalkeeper Justin Dos Santos. Sando’s first-half pressure yielded additional near-misses, including Gill’s curling strike that rattled the crossbar at the half-hour mark.

    Despite brief second-half resistance from Jabloteh—including threatening attempts from winger Andell Fraser and center forward Malachi Webb—Sando maintained control. The victory was sealed through two late goals from Luke Phillips, who first headed home from Gill’s precision free-kick delivery in the 79th minute before completing his brace five minutes later with a low left-footed finish after Gill dispossessed Jadon McShine.

    The result propelled Sando to first place with 15 points, tied with Prisons but superior in goal difference (+16 versus +7). In the evening’s secondary fixture, Police FC secured a 2-0 victory over Point Fortin Civic through goals from Mickaeel Gordon and Isaiah Hudson, consolidating their third-place position with 13 points.