分类: sports

  • New Boyz Brooks and Mason-Clark start on debut for Jamaica against New Caledonia

    New Boyz Brooks and Mason-Clark start on debut for Jamaica against New Caledonia

    In a high-stakes bid to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup, the Jamaican national team, under the guidance of coach Rudolph Speid, has fielded two new English-born debutants in its starting lineup for the critical intercontinental playoff against New Caledonia. The match, scheduled for a 10:00 pm kickoff (Jamaica time) at Mexico’s Akron Stadium, represents the Reggae Boyz’s final opportunity to qualify for the tournament hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

    Andre Brooks and Ephron Mason-Clark have been immediately thrust into the starting eleven, highlighting the team’s strategic incorporation of diaspora talent. They are part of a trio of new recruits, with 20-year-old Tyrese Hall named among the substitutes, as Jamaica seeks to bolster its squad for this decisive encounter.

    The path to qualification is clear: a victory against New Caledonia would propel Jamaica into a final playoff showdown against the Democratic Republic of Congo next Tuesday, with the winner earning a coveted spot in the global football spectacle.

    Jamaica’s starting formation features a blend of experience and fresh talent. The lineup is anchored by captain and goalkeeper Andre Blake, with a defensive unit comprising Ronaldo Webster, Ethan Pinnock, Richard King, and Joel Latibeaudiere. The midfield and attack are powered by Karoy Anderson, Isaac Hayden, the debutant Brooks, Mason-Clark, Bailey-Tye Cadamarteri, and Tyreece Campbell.

    The bench holds significant firepower and options for Coach Speid, including substitutes Jahmall Waite, Amal Knight, Amarii Bell, Damion Lowe, Kyle Ming, Kasey Palmer, Tyrese Hall, Leon Bailey, Renaldo Cephas, Norman Campbell, and Jamal Lowe, ensuring tactical flexibility throughout the match.

  • #Champs2026: JC’s Edwards stays on course for repeat jumps double

    #Champs2026: JC’s Edwards stays on course for repeat jumps double

    Jamaica College’s track and field phenom Michael-Andre Edwards demonstrated exceptional form at the ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships, positioning himself for a remarkable double title defense. Fresh from securing the Class 1 long jump championship on Wednesday, Edwards delivered a spectacular performance in Thursday’s triple jump qualifiers at Kingston’s National Stadium.

    The reigning champion needed merely one attempt to surpass the automatic qualifying standard of 14.90 meters, achieving an impressive leap of 15.43 meters with minimal wind assistance (0.1m/s). Edwards’ commanding performance establishes him as the athlete to beat in the upcoming finals.

    Kingston College’s Amani Phillips also secured his finals berth with a single jump, recording exactly 15.00 meters with moderate wind support (1.6m/s). The qualification round saw several other standout performances: Rekelme Hunter (Kingston College) reached 15.41 meters (0.9m/s), Rajae Williams (Titchfield High) achieved a wind-aided 15.16 meters (3.2m/s), and Calabar High’s Kaleel Samuels cleared 14.98 meters despite facing a slight headwind (-0.5m/s).

    These athletes have all guaranteed their places in what promises to be an intensely competitive triple jump final, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to this prestigious national championship event.

  • Dominica to take on Guyana and Sint Marteen in CONCACAF series

    Dominica to take on Guyana and Sint Marteen in CONCACAF series

    The Dominica Senior Men’s National Football Team has introduced five debutants to its roster as it prepares for critical matches in the Concacaf Series this week. Interim head coach Kurt Herd has selected an 18-member squad featuring both fresh talent and experienced players for matches against Guyana and Sint Maarten.

    The team will face Guyana on Friday, March 27th at 3:00 PM at Estadio Cibao in Santiago de los Caballeros, followed by a match against Sint Maarten on Monday, March 30th at 6:00 PM at the same venue. These matches represent Dominica’s first international fixtures since November 2025, when the team suffered two defeats during the tournament’s first leg in St. Kitts.

    Notable newcomers include We United midfielder Jahlil Alexander, Middleham United striker Clemson Isaac, National Under-20 players Dwight Eloi and Nicholas Harve, and US-based Titus Sandy Jnr, who currently plays with MLS side Orlando City FC. The squad also includes three overseas-based players, adding international experience to the lineup.

    The complete 18-man roster consists of: Donte Newton, Dwight Eloi, Nick Anthony, Savio Anselm, Jervanie Xavier, Antawn Larocque, Clemson Isaac, Marcus Bredas, Eustace Marshall, Titus Sandy Jnr, Nicholas Harve, Troy Jules, Audel Laville, Briel Thomas, Javid George, Lyan Edwards, Dhamario Challenger, and Jahlil Alexander.

    Coach Herd leads the technical staff with Oris Mills serving as assistant coach. The support team includes team manager Kelvin Benjamin, medic Clevon Vidal, goalkeeper coach Courtney Challenger, equipment manager Reginald Darroux, team doctor Dr. Curtis St. John, and media officer Garvin Richards.

    The team’s media officer has released an audio interview with Coach Herd, providing additional insights into the team’s preparation and strategy for the upcoming matches.

  • From Grenada to Rwanda

    From Grenada to Rwanda

    Grenada’s senior men’s national football team is poised to make history as they prepare for their inaugural appearance in the FIFA Series 2026 in Rwanda, marking a transformative moment for Caribbean football development. The upcoming tournament represents Grenada’s first competitive engagement on African soil, with their opening match scheduled against host nation Rwanda on March 27.

    Head Coach Anthony Modeste has assembled a strategically balanced roster that merges seasoned international professionals with promising domestic talent. The squad features notable recalls including English-based forward Lucas Akins and UK-developed defender Greg Sandiford, whose experience brings vital leadership to the defensive line. They are joined by US professional defender Jabari De Coteau, recently drafted by Major League Soccer’s Colorado Rapids, enhancing the team’s international pedigree.

    The selection demonstrates the Grenada Football Association’s dual commitment to competitive readiness and youth development. Seventeen-year-old sensation Raheem Raeburn headlines the emerging talent, having gained national recognition after scoring 51 goals in a youth tournament and earning most outstanding player honors in the Secondary School Football Competition. He is accompanied by 20-year-old Vijay Valcin, who is preparing for US college football, and Narshon Sylvester, a standout from the recent Concacaf U20 competition.

    A significant portion of the squad originates from local clubs across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, including Paradise FC, FC Camerhogne, and Hurricane SC. This domestic representation underscores the GFA’s strategic vision to provide international exposure for players who typically compete within regional confines.

    GFA President Marlon Glean emphasized the tournament’s broader significance: “This moment represents more than participation—it signifies progress. We’ve intentionally created opportunities for our players to compete beyond our region, showcasing that with proper structure and exposure, Grenadian football can grow and compete at higher levels.”

    The FIFA Series offers Grenada substantial developmental benefits including international exposure, competitive match experience, technical advancement, and scouting opportunities. The team features a complete professional infrastructure with comprehensive coaching, medical, and administrative support.

    Following the Rwanda tournament, Grenada will face the Republic of Ireland (FIFA ranking 59) in an international friendly on May 16, 2026, in Murcia, Spain, providing another platform for global recognition.

  • Vincy Heat to play Bonaire, Barbados

    Vincy Heat to play Bonaire, Barbados

    The senior men’s national football team of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, popularly known as Vincy Heat, departed on Tuesday for an international tour in Bonaire where they will compete in two friendly matches this week. The squad will first challenge the host nation Bonaire on Thursday evening at 8 p.m., followed by a Sunday afternoon encounter against Barbados at 4 p.m. Both contests will be held at the Antonio Trinidad Stadium.

    This international excursion occurs during a period of technical transition for the team following the recent resignation of Head Coach Ezra Hendrickson. Otashie Spring, President of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF), acknowledged Hendrickson’s exceptional contributions while expressing strong confidence in the team’s continued performance under interim leadership. Wayde Jackson has been appointed as acting head coach for the tour, with Spring voicing assurance in Jackson’s capability to steer the team toward successful outcomes.

    The federation president extended appreciation to SVGFF Vice President Dominique Stowe for his dedicated oversight of the technical department and thanked both technical staff and players for their ongoing commitment to the national program. Spring emphasized expectations of exemplary performance as the team represents the nation internationally.

    This tour constitutes a strategic component of the federation’s broader initiative to enhance player development through exposure to elevated competitive environments. The matches will provide valuable international experience for the squad while offering technical staff crucial assessment opportunities for both locally-based and overseas-based players. According to an official press release, the delegation features a blended roster of domestic and international players alongside technical staff, with anticipation building for competitive performances against both opponents as Vincy Heat continues its international preparations.

  • SVB  lanceert nieuwe identiteit ‘Natio – The Green Guardians’ en vernieuwde teamtenues

    SVB lanceert nieuwe identiteit ‘Natio – The Green Guardians’ en vernieuwde teamtenues

    The Surinamese Football Association (SVB) has unveiled a transformative new international identity for its national football team, now officially designated as ‘Natio – The Green Guardians.’ This strategic rebranding initiative was formally announced on Tuesday alongside the simultaneous launch of newly designed home and away kits developed in partnership with sportswear manufacturer Kelme.

    This comprehensive repositioning effort aims to strengthen Suriname’s presence within global football by leveraging the nation’s distinctive environmental characteristics. The innovative identity draws direct inspiration from Suriname’s status as one of the world’s most forest-rich nations, with over 90% of its territory covered by pristine rainforests.

    SVB President Dayasankar Mathoera emphasized that the national team now carries significance beyond athletic performance. “We don’t just play for Suriname; we carry something larger onto the field,” Mathoera stated. “With The Green Guardians, we add meaningful responsibility to the pride that Natio has projected for years.”

    The symbolic designation ‘The Green Guardians’ represents both the nation’s extraordinary natural heritage and the team’s philosophical approach—competing with clear purpose, strong identity, and awareness that they represent values extending beyond the sport itself.

    The newly unveiled kits embody this dual message through sophisticated design elements. The white away uniform incorporates the fayalobi flower, representing love, connection, and the diversity of the Surinamese people. The green home kit draws inspiration from palm symbolism, reflecting nature, strength, and growth. Both designs integrate subtle elements from the Surinamese national anthem within their patterns.

    According to Natio General Manager Brian Tevreden, the introduction of The Green Guardians identity opens a new chapter for Surinamese football. “This is about visibility, identity, and belief,” Tevreden explained. “Every time we enter the field, we represent who we are and what we stand for.”

    The launch receives support from the ‘Green Guard’ initiative—a consortium of founding partners committed to supporting the national team’s development and international profile enhancement. This rebranding marks another significant step in SVB’s ongoing professionalization of Surinamese football, intentionally connecting sport, culture, and national pride into a cohesive international identity.

  • Grenada’s CARIFTA Swim Team heads to Martinique with high hopes

    Grenada’s CARIFTA Swim Team heads to Martinique with high hopes

    A contingent of five elite Grenadian swimmers is preparing to demonstrate their aquatic prowess at the 39th CARIFTA Aquatic Championships, scheduled from April 3-11, 2026, in Martinique. The national delegation will commence its journey on March 31, 2026, returning upon the competition’s conclusion on April 11.

    The team features distinguished athletes spanning three competitive age divisions. The 11-12 age bracket will be represented by Angliner Jackson-Bain and Ethan Gunpot, while Ethan Chu Fook will compete in the 13-14 category. The senior 15-17 division will showcase Kristin Gresham and Jacob Collymore. Demonstrating exceptional versatility, Chu Fook is slated to participate in both pool events and the Open Water competition.

    The championships will officially commence with an opening ceremony on April 3, celebrating regional athleticism, camaraderie, and sporting excellence. Team leadership comprises Head Coach Justin Steele, supported by Team Manager Nataly Regis and Chaperone Ruth Collymore. This management triad will coordinate all aspects of athlete preparation, welfare, and operational logistics throughout the tournament.

    Competitors arrive with ambitious objectives of achieving personal bests and securing podium placements in their respective disciplines. This prestigious regional event serves as a critical platform for athletic development, international exposure, and the progressive evolution of aquatic sports within Grenada.

    The Grenadian delegation embodies the nation’s sporting values of professionalism, discipline, and competitive excellence. The team carries the aspirations of a nation eager to witness exceptional performances on the regional stage.

    This participation is organized under the auspices of the Grenada Amateur Swimming Association (GASA).

  • Young Boyz to play Azerbaijan in FIFA Series

    Young Boyz to play Azerbaijan in FIFA Series

    A significantly revamped Saint Lucia men’s national football team is poised for an unprecedented international encounter as they travel to Azerbaijan for their inaugural FIFA Series 2026 match. Dubbed the Piton Boyz, the Caribbean squad will confront their Eurasian counterparts on Friday, March 27th, at Sumqayit’s Mehdi Huseynzade Stadium, located approximately 31 kilometers from Azerbaijan’s capital city of Baku.

    The 2026 FIFA Series, building upon the successful pilot program launched in 2024, represents FIFA’s ambitious global initiative featuring 50 national teams competing across 13 groups in 12 host nations spanning all six continents. This innovative tournament provides participating teams with invaluable opportunities to experience international competition under FIFA’s organizational framework while facing opponents from geographically and tactically diverse footballing regions.

    Originally scheduled to include two matches for Saint Lucia, the tournament format underwent modification following Oman’s withdrawal due to regional geopolitical tensions involving Iran. This adjustment means Sierra Leone will now play single matches against both visiting teams instead of the initially planned fixtures.

    Saint Lucia’s roster reveals a notable transformation from recent campaigns, particularly marked by the absence of veteran goalkeeper Vino Barclett for the first time since March 2023. The goalkeeping duties will fall to either Devone St Prix or 22-year-old Darren Donaie, supported by a defensive line featuring Melvin Doxilly, Alvinus Myers, and Doneal Lionel. While Choiseul’s Ajani Louis earns his second national team call-up, the promising defender awaits his international debut.

    The midfield showcases an exceptionally youthful contingent, featuring 21-year-old Shaquan “Ants” Nelson, 20-year-olds Bayan Aman and Mervin St Romain, 18-year-old Eymani Butcher, and 17-year-old Thierry Morille all vying for playing time. The offensive lineup sees the return of 22-year-old Kegan Caull and 21-year-old Jahlil Evans, while 17-year-old Shevon Byron and 21-year-old Colorado Rapids forward Donavan Phillip stand poised to potentially make their senior international debuts. The squad completed its assembly in Baku on Monday ahead of the historic encounter.

    From a competitive standpoint, Azerbaijan currently occupies 126th position in FIFA’s world rankings while enduring a five-match winless streak against formidable European opponents including France and Ukraine in UEFA and World Cup qualifying matches. Meanwhile, Saint Lucia, ranked 167th globally, has secured just one victory in their previous five outings—a 2-1 triumph over Barbados in World Cup qualification proceedings last June.

  • #Champs2026: Edwin Allen’s Fowler dedicates win to fallen teammate Tanesha Gayle

    #Champs2026: Edwin Allen’s Fowler dedicates win to fallen teammate Tanesha Gayle

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a profoundly moving display of athletic excellence and personal tribute, Edwin Allen High School’s Kevongaye Fowler secured victory in the Girls Class 2 1500m event during Wednesday’s ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships. Fowler’s triumphant performance, clocking 4:41.37 seconds at the national stadium, served as a heartfelt dedication to her former teammate Tanesha Gayle, who tragically passed away during a training session in September last year.

    The emotional weight of Fowler’s achievement was palpable as she reflected on her relationship with Gayle, whom she characterized as “my sister.” Gayle had previously placed fourth in the same Class 2 final just a year earlier. Fowler revealed to the Jamaica Observer that their close bond formed immediately when she joined Edwin Allen. “I did this all for her,” Fowler stated emotionally. “We were extremely close, and when she passed away during training, I was determined to honor her memory through my performance today.

    The competition featured impressive performances across multiple categories. Alikay Reynolds from Alphansus Davis High, the defending gold medalist, captured silver with a time of 4:44.79 seconds, while Alexia Palmer of Sydney Pagon earned bronze with 4:45.97 seconds.

    In parallel events, Jovi Rose of Holmwood Technical claimed victory in the Class 1 Girls 1500m, completing the course in 4:45.15 seconds and improving upon her silver medal performance from the previous year. Annataseca Blackwood of Sydney Pagon achieved second place with a personal best of 4:45.43 seconds, surpassing her previous Western Champs record. Rihanna Morgan from Hydel High secured third position with 4:47.55 seconds.

    The Class 3 division witnessed Clarendon College’s Alexjordan Hall capturing gold in 4:47.35 seconds, outperforming Alpha Academy’s Danoya Scott (4:48.54 seconds) and Edwin Allen’s Romeann Gray (4:48.72 seconds) who took silver and bronze respectively.

    The championships continue to showcase Jamaica’s exceptional young athletic talent while simultaneously highlighting the profound personal connections and emotional narratives that underscore competitive sports.

  • #Champs2026: Historic Class 1 boys 400m looms

    #Champs2026: Historic Class 1 boys 400m looms

    The stage is set for a potentially historic showdown in the boys’ 400-meter finals at the prestigious ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys and Girls Athletics Championships in Kingston, Jamaica. Wednesday’s semifinal rounds produced extraordinary results, signaling an unprecedented level of competition for Thursday’s championship races.

    In a stunning display of youthful athleticism, seven sprinters in the Class 1 division shattered the 47-second barrier during their semifinal heats. Jamaica College’s Makaelan Woods emerged as the fastest qualifier, clocking an impressive 46.39 seconds. He was closely followed by William Knibb Memorial’s Jabari Matheson (46.54), Foga Road’s Paul Henry (46.72), and Hydel High’s Junior Galimore (46.76).

    The record-breaking pace continued with Kingston College’s Jabulani McLeod (46.80), Titchfield High’s Nishawn Walker (46.88), and Jamaica College’s second contender Omary Robinson all dipping under the 47-second mark.

    Jamaica College demonstrated remarkable depth across multiple categories, with DiWayne Sharpe leading the Class 2 qualifiers at 46.97 seconds. The school’s dominance extended to Class 3, where Jayden White topped qualifying with 50.62 seconds, supported by teammate Tariq Creary’s 51.43 performance.

    Kingston College also showcased strong representation with two athletes advancing in Class 3, while athletes from Lacovia High, St. Elizabeth Technical High School, and Wolmer’s Boys secured their spots in what promises to be an unforgettable series of finals at Jamaica’s National Stadium.