As schoolboy football resumes in Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, coaches Devon Anderson of Clarendon College and Jermaine Thomas of McGrath High are placing greater emphasis on the emotional and psychological recovery of their students rather than the sport itself. The ISSA daCosta Cup and Manning Cup competitions, paused since late October due to the Category 5 hurricane, are set to restart on November 29 for rural areas and a day earlier for urban zones. However, the return to the field has been overshadowed by the profound personal losses and trauma experienced by players and their families. Anderson, whose relative in western Jamaica suffered significant losses, has been supporting his team through grief and displacement. Similarly, Thomas, though grateful that McGrath High was relatively spared, acknowledges the challenges of motivating players who faced prolonged power outages and property damage. Both coaches have been working tirelessly to uplift their teams, with Anderson describing this period as one of the most difficult in his coaching career. ISSA’s efforts to ensure schools were adequately supported before resuming play have been praised, but the focus remains on helping students regain a sense of normalcy. While Clarendon College and McGrath High aim for success in the ongoing competitions, Anderson emphasizes that the current training sessions are more about enjoyment and emotional recovery than pressuring the players. The teams are taking it week by week, hoping to rebuild their rhythm and resilience in the wake of the hurricane’s impact.
分类： sports
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Zulu Warrior spints home with URTAJ Trophy feature
Zulu Warrior showcased exceptional versatility and skill, securing a decisive victory in the $1.25-million StarGas United Racehorse Trainers Association of Jamaica (URTAJ) Trophy at Caymanas Park on Saturday. The four-year-old chestnut colt, owned by O&S Racers and trained by Adrian Prince, was expertly ridden by apprentice Tyrese Anderson. Competing in the Restricted Overnight Allowance event for native-bred three-year-olds and upward over six furlongs (1,200m), Zulu Warrior triumphed by an impressive 2 ½ lengths. The race began with Zulu Warrior taking an early lead, but he strategically allowed Comehometome (ridden by Abigail Able) to take charge near the half-mile mark. However, as the race turned for home, Zulu Warrior unleashed a powerful surge, propelling him to victory ahead of Oil Machine (Tajay Suckoo) and Provident (Tevin Foster). The winning time was recorded at 1:14.3. This victory marked the second win of the day for O&S Racers and Prince, who had earlier claimed the previous race with Shooting Star, ridden by Raddesh Roman. Trainer Ryan Darby also celebrated two victories on the day, with Don Almighty (Paul Francis) winning the opening event and Green Gold Rush (Tevin Foster) securing the sixth race. Racing enthusiasts now eagerly await the highly anticipated Jamaica Cup race day, continuing today.
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Watson, DaCosta, Halledeen look to shine with Funcaandun and Dothraki on Jamaica Cup race day
The Jamaica Cup Race Day is set to be a monumental event for owner Carlton Watson, trainer Jason DaCosta, and jockey Robert Halledeen as they aim for a dominant double with their horses, Funcaandun and Dothraki, in the $6-million Jamaica Cup and the $2.5-million Port Royal Sprint, respectively. The trio is poised for success in two of the three major trophy events on the 10-race card, with high hopes of a triumphant day. Funcaandun, the reigning Horse of the Year, will face 11 competitors over nine and a half furlongs (1,900m), while Dothraki will take on eight rivals over six furlongs (1,200m). Both races are ‘Win and You’re In’ contests, offering a guaranteed spot in next month’s prestigious Mouttet Mile. Funcaandun, despite a disappointing sixth-place finish in the recent Gold Cup, boasts an impressive record with two wins from five starts this season. Carrying top weight at 57.0kgs (126 lb), the bay colt is a formidable contender with a proven track record in major races. However, the competition remains fierce, with Tiz Tok, Mojito, and H Two O posing significant threats. Tiz Tok has shown steady improvement, Mojito recently secured a victory over nine furlongs, and H Two O has been training exceptionally well. Meanwhile, Dothraki, a four-year-old American-bred colt, is making his second local appearance after a stellar debut win. He is the top pick for the Port Royal Sprint, though Rideallday and Desert of Malibu are expected to provide strong competition. Rideallday, a highly regarded horse, is eager to reclaim his winning streak after a setback in the Gold Cup, while Desert of Malibu has shown promise in recent training sessions. In the $1.5-million St Elizabeth Distaff, trainer Anthony “Baba” Nunes is confident in his top runners, Fearless Force and Linguist, who are strong contenders in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-old fillies and mares over one mile (1,600m). Fearless Force, unbeatable on paper, is the favorite, but Linguist, this year’s Jamaica Oaks winner, could challenge for the top spot. The Jamaica Cup Race Day promises thrilling competition and high stakes, with the potential for historic victories.
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Holy Trinity Cathedral hosts fundraising golf tourney
The Holy Trinity Cathedral, a cherished heritage site registered with the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago, is set to host a unique Fundraising Golf Tournament aimed at supporting its ongoing restoration efforts. The event will take place at the prestigious St Andrews Golf Course in Maraval on November 16, commencing with an 8 am shotgun start. Participants will engage in a Two-Ball Better Ball – 85 per cent format, with registration fees set at $3,500 per team. Organizers are calling on the public, corporate partners, and golf enthusiasts to rally behind this significant initiative, which directly contributes to the preservation of one of Trinidad and Tobago’s historic architectural treasures. For registration or sponsorship inquiries, individuals can contact Christopher Skinner at 680-4110 or Kirby Anthony Hosang at 678-8770. Additionally, email inquiries can be directed to cathedralhtcgolf@gmail.com.
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Taking a win from the loss
The Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) senior men’s national football team concluded their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign with a 1-1 draw against Jamaica on November 13 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium. Despite a spirited performance in front of a passionate home crowd, the result left the team with only six points, eliminating any chance of advancing to the World Cup. Their final qualifier match against Bermuda on November 18 will be a mere formality, as they cannot secure a top-two finish in their group. Jamaica opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, but T&T’s substitute Kevin Molino equalized just four minutes before the final whistle. A promising stoppage-time effort by debutant forward Roald Mitchell, a New York Red Bulls player, was cut short due to a hamstring injury. Statistically, T&T dominated the game with 62% possession, 17 shots on goal compared to Jamaica’s six, and 411 passes to Jamaica’s 257. However, their inability to convert opportunities into goals proved costly. Coach Dwight Yorke defended his strategy, emphasizing that it worked as planned despite the lack of goals. He called for a focus on developing a stronger squad and nurturing home-grown coaching talent. Yorke’s first year as coach has revitalized local interest in football, with increased fan attendance and sponsorship support. However, T&T remains at the early stages of building a competitive team. The government’s ‘grandfather clause’ to expand the pool of eligible players is a step forward, but long-term success hinges on investing in youth development programs like the Secondary Schools Football League and improving talent identification processes, such as the poorly handled National Under-17 trials on November 9. Yorke’s experience as a former professional player will be crucial in guiding the next generation of T&T footballers, ensuring a more competitive future World Cup campaign.
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Column: Vochtige ogen
On the eve of the World Cup qualifier against El Salvador, Suriname’s national team, led by coach Stanley Menzo, held a press conference. While such events often yield little new information, the focus was on the team’s readiness and strategy. Captain Shaquille Pinas, a veteran with 34 international caps, addressed the media, emphasizing his approach to the match: ‘I don’t feel extra pressure. I step onto the field to win, just like any other game.’ He highlighted the players’ awareness of their fans’ emotions, stating, ‘We play for our families, friends, and the people of our country. It’s a great honor to contribute to that.’
The following evening, the Essed Stadium was packed well before kickoff, showcasing the nation’s fervent support. Defender Myenty Abena led a passionate pre-game prayer, setting the tone for the match. Despite a shaky first half with inaccurate passes and a reliance on long balls, Suriname managed to take a 1-0 lead into halftime, thanks to a penalty converted by Tjaronn Chery.
The second half saw a transformed Surinamese team. With fluid combinations and dynamic wingbacks Djavan Anderson and Ridgeciano Haps, they dismantled El Salvador’s defense. Richonell Margaret scored twice, and substitute Dhoraso Klas added a fourth goal, sealing a 4-0 victory. The crowd erupted in celebration, singing the national anthem twice.
Post-match, the team and staff remained on the field, basking in the adoration of their supporters. Goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen showcased his quirky dance moves, while other players expressed their joy in various ways. Coach Menzo, overwhelmed with emotion, retreated to the technical room, reflecting on his journey and the significance of the win. During the subsequent press conference, he expressed immense pride in his team and the country of his birth, though he admitted that the celebrations would be modest. ‘The years are catching up with me,’ he joked, ‘but I know the boys will celebrate tonight.’
Looking ahead, Suriname faces Guatemala in their final qualifying match. Menzo stressed the importance of focus and preparation, even as the team savors their recent triumph. The Surinamese sports press gave Menzo a standing ovation, marking a memorable night for the nation’s footballing aspirations.
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West Indies Under-19s Ready for England Challenge
The West Indies Under-19 cricket team is set to embark on a pivotal seven-match Youth ODI series against England, commencing on Sunday in Grenada. This series serves as a critical component of their preparation for the ICC Under-19 World Cup scheduled for early next year. Head coach Rohan Nurse is optimistic about the team’s progress, particularly following their hard-earned 4–3 victory over Sri Lanka in Antigua two months ago. Nurse highlighted the resilience and unity displayed by the young squad during that series, qualities he believes are essential for their continued development. The team has undergone three changes since the Sri Lanka tour, with DeShawn James returning from injury and Kunal Tilokani and Tanez Francis earning their spots after standout performances in the regional Under-17 tournament. While Afraz Ali Buhdoo, Micah Greenidge, and Pajay Nelson have been omitted from the England series, they remain part of the broader player pool for the upcoming World Cup. Nurse emphasized the importance of consistency, concentration, and maintaining intensity across all aspects of the game—batting, bowling, and fielding—as key areas for improvement. He also stressed the need for players to convert strong starts into substantial performances and to clearly define their roles within the team. With the World Cup on the horizon, the England series provides an invaluable opportunity for the West Indies U19 squad to refine their skills, build cohesion, and adapt to the demands of international cricket. The series will run from November 16 to December 1, with matches scheduled across Grenada. The team management, led by Nurse and supported by assistant coaches Jerome Taylor and Nikita Miller, is focused on fostering a performance-driven environment while instilling professionalism and clarity of roles both on and off the field.
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Trinidad and Tobago eliminated in draw with Jamaica
The Final Round of the Concacaf Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup witnessed a thrilling encounter between Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, ending in a 1-1 draw on Thursday at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. The match, part of Group B, saw both teams battling fiercely for a chance to advance in the tournament. The first half remained goalless, with both sides struggling to break through the defenses. However, the deadlock was finally broken in the 53rd minute when Renaldo Cephas of Jamaica capitalized on a swift counterattack down the left flank. Cutting inside, Cephas expertly placed the ball into the bottom right corner, giving Jamaica the lead. Rumarn Burrell was credited with the assist. Trinidad and Tobago responded in the 85th minute, with Kevin Molino delivering a precise right-footed strike from close range to level the score. The draw leaves Jamaica in second place in the group with 10 points and a 3-1-1 record, keeping their hopes alive for direct qualification. They are set to host Curaçao in their next match. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been dashed with this result. The Soca Warriors will conclude their campaign with a visit to Bermuda.
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Suriname inches closer to World Cup dream, El Salvador eliminated
In a decisive match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Suriname delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over El Salvador on Thursday at the Dr. Ir. Franklin Essed Stadion in Paramaribo. This triumph not only solidified Suriname’s position at the top of Group A but also brought the nation closer to securing its first-ever World Cup appearance. The team’s record now stands at 2 wins, 3 draws, and 0 losses. The scoring began in the 44th minute when Tjaronn Chery converted a penalty after being fouled by El Salvador’s Julio Sibrián. Suriname extended its lead in the 74th minute with Richonell Margaret capitalizing on a deflected clearance. Margaret struck again just two minutes later, finishing a cross from Ridgeciano Haps. The final goal came in the 83rd minute when substitute Dhoraso Klas tapped in a cross shortly after entering the game. With this loss, El Salvador has been eliminated from contention for the 2026 World Cup. Suriname will face Guatemala in their final qualifying match on Tuesday, while El Salvador will conclude their campaign against Panama.
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West Indies U-19s set for England
The West Indies Under-19 cricket team is set to face England in a pivotal seven-match Youth One Day International (ODI) series, commencing this Sunday in Grenada. This series marks a critical juncture in their preparation for the ICC Under-19 World Cup, scheduled for early next year. Head coach Rohan Nurse expressed optimism about the team’s development, emphasizing the importance of this series in refining skills and strategies. The squad, buoyed by a recent 4-3 series victory over Sri Lanka, aims to build on that momentum as they take on another formidable opponent. The team has seen some adjustments since their last outing, with three players returning or earning their spots based on standout performances. DeShawn James rejoins after recovering from injury, while Kunal Tilokani and Tanez Francis secured their places following impressive showings at the regional Under-17 tournament. Meanwhile, players like Afraz Ali Buhdoo, Micah Greenidge, and Pajay Nelson will miss this series but remain in contention for the final World Cup squad. Nurse highlighted the team’s resilience and fighting spirit during the Sri Lanka series, noting that these qualities are essential for success. He also stressed the need for consistency and focus across all departments—batting, bowling, and fielding—to gain a competitive edge. With the World Cup looming, this series against England is a vital step in shaping a cohesive and competitive unit capable of excelling on the international stage. The team management, including assistant coaches Jerome Taylor and Nikita Miller, is focused on fostering a performance-driven environment while instilling professionalism and clarity of roles among the players.