Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Floyd Mayweather to come out of retirement

    Floyd Mayweather to come out of retirement

    LOS ANGELES — Boxing legend Floyd Mayweather has declared his intention to return to professional competition following his upcoming exhibition match against Mike Tyson, ending his seven-year retirement from official bouts. The 48-year-old undefeated champion made the announcement Friday through an exclusive statement.

    Mayweather, who retired in 2017 with a perfect 50-0 record, revealed he has signed an exclusive promotional agreement with CSI Sports/Fight Sports. The partnership will commence after his exhibition encounter with Tyson, though the specific date for that matchup remains unconfirmed.

    “I still possess the capability to establish new records within boxing,” Mayweather asserted. “Whether through my forthcoming event with Mike Tyson or my subsequent professional return, no other athlete can match the revenue generation, global viewership, or live gate attendance that my events consistently deliver.”

    While opponent details remain undisclosed, sources indicate Mayweather’s professional return is preliminarily scheduled for summer 2024. Additional information regarding both the Tyson exhibition and professional comeback will be revealed in upcoming weeks.

    Since his official retirement after defeating UFC superstar Conor McGregor in 2017, Mayweather has participated in multiple exhibition contests. These include a August 2024 victory over John Gotti III in Mexico, along with matches against reality television personalities and digital content creators.

  • Julien Alfred honoured with commemorative stamp

    Julien Alfred honoured with commemorative stamp

    The Government of Saint Lucia has permanently enshrined track star Julien Alfred’s Olympic achievements by featuring her on a national postage stamp. The official launch ceremony on February 18, held during the nation’s Independence 47 celebrations, honored Alfred’s groundbreaking gold and silver medal performances at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

    The commemorative stamp series captures pivotal moments from Alfred’s historic athletic accomplishments and will be incorporated into the island’s official philatelic collection. Following her Olympic success, the two-time medalist was additionally appointed as a tourism ambassador for Saint Lucia.

    In a significant development, the government revealed plans to transition the stamp from commemorative to definitive status. While commemorative stamps are typically special-issue collectibles celebrating specific events or personalities, definitive stamps serve as standard postage for everyday mail. This elevation means Alfred’s likeness will transition from a limited-edition tribute to a permanent feature of the nation’s postal system.

    Alfred participated in the ceremony via virtual call, expressing profound gratitude for the honor. “To be honoured by my island in this way is deeply humbling,” she stated. “This place shaped me into who I am: my values, my strength, and my dreams. I accept this not just for myself, but as a symbol honouring the strength of a united community.”

    Education, Youth Development and Sports Minister Kenson Casimir emphasized the symbolic importance of the stamp, noting that it transforms Alfred’s achievements into “a permanent national symbol.” He elaborated that each envelope bearing Alfred’s image would tell a story of “a small island nation that produces world-class talent” and serve as inspiration to youth that “excellence will be recognised, discipline matters, dreams are valid, and with hard work, guidance, and opportunity, Saint Lucians can stand amongst the best in the world.”

  • Dominica’s Senior Women’s National Football Team set to face Guyana next week

    Dominica’s Senior Women’s National Football Team set to face Guyana next week

    Following a historically challenging 18-0 defeat against Jamaica, Dominica’s Senior Women’s National Football Team is undergoing intensive reconstruction ahead of their critical CONCACAF qualifier against Guyana on February 27th. The coaching staff has implemented a comprehensive training regimen addressing multiple deficiencies exposed during their opening match.

    Assistant Coach Sheldon Casimir provided transparent assessment of the team’s current state, acknowledging Jamaica’s formidable quality while identifying specific improvement areas. “Despite the devastating result, our defensive organization—paradoxically our strongest aspect against Jamaica—requires immediate enhancement,” Casimir stated. “We’re prioritizing physical conditioning, mental awareness, and defensive coordination to narrow the gap against elite opponents.”

    The team faces unique logistical challenges with six overseas-based players joining limited preparation time. Casimir emphasized the importance of developing team cohesion: “We’re utilizing these additional days to integrate our overseas contingent and establish effective on-field communication patterns.”

    Technical preparation has been hampered by insufficient match footage for analysis. The coaching staff relies primarily on recent tournament recordings and the Jamaica match for tactical insights. “Ideal preparation would involve numerous practice matches with comprehensive video review,” Casimir explained. “Unfortunately, our current development phase doesn’t permit this luxury.”

    Psychological recovery represents another critical focus area. The coaching staff acknowledges the demoralizing effect of their record defeat and is implementing morale-building strategies. Casimir highlighted the need for professional psychological support: “We expect elite performance without corresponding mental training. Maintaining positive mindset progression is essential—being better today than yesterday, and better tomorrow than today.”

    The team departs for Guyana on February 23rd with renewed determination. The Dominica Football Association continues rallying domestic and international support as the women’s squad pursues their qualification objectives despite significant competitive challenges.

  • Nestor breaks 48-year-old school record

    Nestor breaks 48-year-old school record

    In a historic moment for collegiate basketball, University of North Texas senior Megan Nestor has demolished a nearly half-century-old rebounding record with at least four games remaining in the regular season. The 6-foot-4 center from the coastal village of Canaries, Saint Lucia, achieved her 17th double-double of the season during Tuesday night’s dominant 84-54 victory over the University of Alabama-Birmingham at the Super Pit arena.

    Nestor entered the contest requiring just six rebounds to surpass Sharon Shelton’s longstanding record of 364 boards set in 1978. She accomplished this milestone early in the third quarter and finished with an impressive 14 rebounds alongside 16 points on exceptional shooting efficiency—making all nine field goal attempts and converting a perfect 7-7 from the free-throw line. The celebration became particularly memorable as Nestor’s mother was present to witness her daughter’s extraordinary achievement.

    The record-breaking performance places Nestor among elite company in NCAA women’s basketball. Maintaining her current pace would make her only the third player since the 2019-20 season to average 14+ rebounds per game, joining Angel Reese (LSU) and Lauren Gustin (BYU) in this exclusive category. Furthermore, she is positioned to challenge the American Conference’s single-season rebounding record of 418 set by South Florida’s Dulcy Fankam Mendjiadeu in 2023.

    Nestor’s consistency has been remarkable, with double-digit performances in points and rebounds in 12 of her last 13 games. Her 17 double-doubles place her just one behind the current national leaders.

    Reflecting on her journey from NAIA competition, Nestor expressed both surprise and satisfaction: ‘Coming from the NAIA level, I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to do it. It feels really special. Being recognized and doing what I’m doing with my team just means a lot to me.’

    The Mean Green (15-11, 9-5 American) have found their rhythm with four victories in their recent outings, including three consecutive wins at home. The team delivered a comprehensive performance against UAB, with five players scoring in double figures while the defense limited opponents to 54 points and forced 19 turnovers. North Texas also matched its season-best with only six turnovers and played a flawless second half without a single giveaway.

  • Association of National Olympic Committees of the OECS (ANOCES) Press Release

    Association of National Olympic Committees of the OECS (ANOCES) Press Release

    In a significant development for Caribbean sports, the Association of National Olympic Committees of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (ANOCES) has finalized a comprehensive partnership agreement with Panam Sports for their NOC Strengthening Programme, effective throughout 2026. The landmark agreement was formally announced on February 18th, 2026, from the ANOCES headquarters in Basseterre, St. Kitts.

    ANOCES President Ephraim Penn expressed considerable satisfaction with the negotiated arrangement, highlighting the extensive preparatory work undertaken by his executive team. The initiative, initially presented to Panam Sports President Neven Ilic the previous year, represents a strategic investment in the athletic future of the Eastern Caribbean subregion. President Penn emphasized the program’s potential to cultivate successive generations of athletes who will represent member nations at both regional and international multi-sport competitions, as well as individual championships organized by International Federations.

    The tripartite program structure encompasses three distinct but interconnected initiatives:

    The Sports Competitions Programme will provide organizational support for five designated sports: Athletics, 3×3 Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Swimming, and Table Tennis.

    The Coaches, Referees, and Technical Officials Education Programme will focus exclusively on professional development through specialized training courses to enhance technical expertise across the region.

    The Methodologists Support Programme is designed to strengthen the operational capacity of sport methodologists currently supporting National Olympic Committees within ANOCES, ensuring dedicated assistance during regional and continental competitions.

    The ANOCES Executive Committee has finalized the allocation of grant funds from Panam Sports specifically for the organization of these competitions. Financial disbursements will be directed to host National Olympic Committees to offset critical organizational expenses including athlete and official accommodations, meals, local transportation, trophies, medals, venue preparation, rental costs, and other competition-related expenditures.

    The 2026 competition schedule receiving grant support includes:

    – ANOECS Athletics Championships (July 4-5) in Basseterre, St. Kitts/Nevis
    – ANOECS 3×3 Basketball (May 23-24) in Tortola, British Virgin Islands
    – ANOECS Beach Volleyball (July 10-12) in Basseterre, St. Kitts/Nevis
    – ANOECS Table Tennis (December 6-8) in St. Lucia
    – ANOECS Swimming (November 6-8) in St. Lucia

    ANOCES has extended its profound gratitude to Panam Sports for their continued collaborative partnership, recognizing the significant investment in the athletic development of Eastern Caribbean youth.

  • Cricket West Indies Welcomes Livpure as Official Jersey Sponsor for West Indies Men

    Cricket West Indies Welcomes Livpure as Official Jersey Sponsor for West Indies Men

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has secured a significant sponsorship agreement with Livpure, a prominent water purification and home appliances brand, marking a new chapter in the commercial development of West Indies cricket. The partnership, announced on February 19, 2026, designates Livpure as an official jersey sponsor for the West Indies Senior Men’s Team during two major upcoming tournaments.

    The sponsorship arrangement encompasses both the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, currently underway, and the West Indies white ball tour of India scheduled for September and October 2026. The India tour will feature three One Day Internationals and three T20 International matches, providing extensive visibility for the brand across multiple formats.

    CWI President, The Hon. Dr. Kishore Shallow, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration, stating: ‘This partnership reflects the enduring global appeal of West Indies cricket and our ability to attract respected international brands. Such strategic alliances are fundamental to supporting the growth, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability of cricket throughout the Caribbean region.’

    The timing coincides with the West Indies Men’s strong performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup, where the team has already secured qualification to the Super Eight stage. Their next match against Zimbabwe on February 23 presents an immediate platform for the new sponsorship visibility.

    Chris Dehring, CWI Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the market significance of the partnership, particularly noting the value in key cricket markets like India where the West Indies team maintains substantial commercial appeal.

    Brand placement will vary by tournament according to regulations. During the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Livpure’s branding will appear on the leading arm of the team’s shirt, while during the India tour, it will feature prominently on the front of the shirt, subject to international playing conditions and approvals.

    Rakesh Kaul, MD & CEO for Livpure, expressed enthusiasm about associating with the iconic West Indies team, noting the alignment between the brand’s values and the team’s passionate global fan base. The partnership aims to engage millions of cricket fans worldwide, particularly during the high-profile T20 World Cup hosted across India and Sri Lanka.

    This sponsorship represents CWI’s ongoing commitment to developing sustainable commercial partnerships that enhance team competitiveness while expanding the global footprint of West Indies cricket.

  • Column: Evaluatie voetbalopleidingen

    Column: Evaluatie voetbalopleidingen

    The Surinamese Football Association (SVB) has pursued World Cup qualification for decades with unwavering determination, yet the elusive goal remains just beyond reach. Despite numerous strategic approaches and promising campaigns, the national team continues to face heartbreaking near-misses in international competitions.

    During the most recent qualification cycle, Suriname’s ‘Natio’ squad appeared poised to secure direct qualification until a final-match collapse forced them into a precarious playoff position scheduled for March. This pattern of disappointment has become familiar to Surinamese football enthusiasts, who have watched talented generations fail to reach the sport’s highest international stage.

    The current debate centers on team composition strategy. SVB has recently implemented the ‘Natio New Style’ approach, fielding a Surinamese-origin head coach leading a squad primarily composed of professional players with Surinamese heritage playing abroad. This strategy has gradually reduced local player representation to just one reserve goalkeeper, raising concerns about domestic development.

    While this formula has produced Suriname’s strongest team to date, a vocal contingent of coaches and sports journalists advocates for greater inclusion of local talent. However, several local players who have trained alongside international professionals have honestly acknowledged their technical shortcomings, prioritizing national team success over personal participation.

    Football analysts suggest the solution lies not in sentimental selection but in structural reform. The focus must shift to evaluating and enhancing local training programs, revising curricula, and upgrading coach qualifications. Professional clubs may need to implement higher coaching standards, with mandatory continuing education for existing staff and replacement of those unwilling to improve.

    The most promising path forward appears to be strengthening collaboration between SVB and Surinamese-origin football experts working abroad, with emphasis on knowledge transfer to domestic training programs. Comprehensive improvements across all development facets offer the best hope for elevating local football standards and finally achieving that long-awaited World Cup appearance.

  • Canoe Association Opposes La Ruta Maya Finish Line Change

    Canoe Association Opposes La Ruta Maya Finish Line Change

    A proposed alteration to the final leg of Belize’s iconic La Ruta Maya canoe race has ignited significant controversy among participants and sporting officials. The race committee is considering moving the traditional finish line from the BelCan Bridge to the Grand Resort near Haulover Creek Bridge, a change that has not been formally finalized but has already generated substantial online discussion and athlete opposition.

    Carlos Linares, a veteran paddler with thirteen consecutive race participations, expressed strong objections to the potential change. He emphasized the importance of tradition, noting that the sudden proposal lacked consultation with competitors. Linares highlighted that the alteration would diminish the race’s historical significance and spectator experience, particularly criticizing new policies that charge admission for family members to watch the event—a departure from previous years’ practices.

    Elvin Penner, Vice President of the Belize Canoe Association, provided technical analysis of the proposed change’s competitive implications. He explained that the current channel approach to the BelCan Bridge creates a dramatic climax to the race due to the dense water conditions that typically determine the ultimate winner. Penner estimated the route change would eliminate approximately thirty minutes of this critical racing segment, potentially altering the fundamental character of the competition while possibly shortening the overall duration—a mixed benefit for exhausted participants.

    The controversy reflects broader tensions between event modernization and preservation of sporting heritage, with athletes questioning whether organizational decisions adequately consider competitor perspectives and tradition maintenance.

  • All Saints’ Primary, Reynold Weekes dominate Anton Norris Zone

    All Saints’ Primary, Reynold Weekes dominate Anton Norris Zone

    The Usain Bolt Complex witnessed exceptional athletic prowess on Wednesday as primary schools competed fiercely in the Chef Foods NAPSAC Championships’ PediaSure Anton Norris Zone. All Saints’ Primary emerged victorious in the girls’ division with a commanding total of 280 points, significantly outpacing Hillaby Turners Hall (216 points) and Reynold Weekes Primary (200 points) who secured second and third positions respectively.

    In the boys’ competition, Reynold Weekes Primary demonstrated overwhelming dominance by capturing the zone championship title with a massive 290-point haul. Arthur Smith Primary claimed second place with 156 points, while All Saints’ Primary followed closely in third with 155 points.

    The event spotlighted extraordinary individual performances, particularly from Under 11 competitors Tylisa Small of Welches Primary and Nathaniel Whittaker of Reynold Weekes. Small earned the prestigious Victrix Ludorum honor with triple victories in the 300m, 200m, and Long Jump events. Simultaneously, Whittaker secured the Victor Ludorum title with his impressive wins in the 100m, 200m, and 300m races.

    Record-breaking achievements highlighted the championship as Small established new benchmarks in the Long Jump with a leap of 3.84m (surpassing the previous 3.58m record) and in the 300m with a time of 46.99 seconds. Whittaker similarly excelled by setting a new zone record of 46.85 seconds in the 300m event.

    Veteran track and field coach Jasper Blades provided expert commentary, noting the consistent improvement in performances across the NAPSAC meet. “Schools that invest consistent training and competition opportunities for their children naturally achieve superior results,” Blades observed. He anticipates intriguing developments in upcoming quarterfinals and semifinals as athlete transitions between schools may reshape competitive dynamics.

  • Vice-captain Henry embraces leadership role ahead of Sri Lanka series

    Vice-captain Henry embraces leadership role ahead of Sri Lanka series

    West Indies Women’s cricket team welcomes newly appointed vice-captain Chinelle Henry as the squad prepares for their upcoming three-match One-Day International series against Sri Lanka. The series commences this Friday at Grenada’s National Cricket Stadium, marking Henry’s first official assignment in her enhanced leadership capacity.

    Despite her new role, Henry maintains that her fundamental approach to the game remains unchanged. “This represents my inaugural series in this position, yet it hasn’t substantially altered my preparation or playing style,” Henry stated during Tuesday’s pre-series media briefing. “Assuming this responsibility doesn’t transform my identity as either a person or athlete.”

    The Caribbean side receives significant reinforcements with the return of captain Hayley Matthews, who has recovered from shoulder surgery that sidelined her since June last year. Veteran all-rounder Deandra Dottin also makes her anticipated comeback to international cricket after an extended absence.

    Henry expressed enthusiasm about the team’s condensed preparation period, noting: “While our lead-time has been shorter than typical due to overlapping commitments like regional tournaments and the Women’s Premier League, our training intensity has been exceptional. With minimal adjustments needed, we’re fully prepared for competition.”

    The vice-captain emphasized the strategic importance of having both Matthews and Dottin simultaneously available. “This marks a rare occasion where we benefit from having both key players fit and participating together. Their presence in Maroon colors after competing against them in franchise cricket creates a particularly positive dynamic.”

    Henry also acknowledges her responsibility in mentoring uncapped players within the squad. “Representing the West Indies remains an honor regardless of experience level. My focus involves helping newcomers adapt to our operational methods and team culture as efficiently as possible.”

    The cricketer attributes her developmental progress to extensive franchise cricket exposure, explaining: “Competing in various leagues accelerates growth through cultural exchanges and diverse playing styles. This cross-pollination experience undoubtedly strengthens international squad performance.”