The Barbados Football Association (BFA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the quality of match officiating by prioritizing referee development. In a recent initiative, the BFA successfully conducted its annual Referee Recruitment Course, a cornerstone of its strategy to cultivate a new generation of skilled referees and bolster the local pool of match officials. The course, led by BFA’s Head of Refereeing, Mark Forde, and CONCACAF’s Member Association Referees’ Technical Instructor, Trevor Taylor, provided participants with comprehensive training in theoretical, technical, and physical aspects of refereeing, aligned with the official laws of the game. Following the course, participants will enter an apprenticeship phase to officiate domestic matches. Forde emphasized the importance of attracting young talent, noting that the majority of the 16 participants were aged between 14 and 18. He highlighted the critical role referees play in the sustainability of football in Barbados, stating, ‘Without referees, no football can play.’ The BFA’s efforts extend beyond local development, with plans to send two young referees, Darian Scantlebury and Charles Yearwood, to Trinidad and Tobago next month to participate in a CONCACAF initiative aimed at identifying emerging talent and elevating regional refereeing standards. BFA President Randy Harris underscored the association’s dedication to excellence, citing the inclusion of five BFA referees on the prestigious 2025 FIFA International Referees List as a testament to their progress. BFA referees have also gained recognition internationally, officiating matches across the Americas and the Caribbean. Locally, they continue to play a pivotal role in prestigious tournaments such as the Prime Minister’s Cup and the inaugural 2025 Barbados Beach Soccer Championship.
分类： sports
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Senator Michael Joseph Donates $15,000 to Football Clubs in St. John’s Rural West
In a significant move to bolster community sports, Senator Michael M. Joseph has committed $15,000 in financial support to three prominent football clubs in the St. John’s Rural West constituency. The donation, which will be evenly distributed among Five Islands FC, Empire FC, and Hoppers FC, aims to aid their preparations for the upcoming 2025–2026 ABFA Football Season. Senator Joseph emphasized the critical role of local sports in fostering youth development, instilling discipline, and nurturing community pride. He stated, ‘Our clubs are instrumental in shaping the character of our youth, promoting discipline, and strengthening community bonds. Supporting them is a direct investment in the sustained growth and unity of our constituency.’ Additionally, the senator extended his heartfelt wishes for a successful and competitive season to all three teams.
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SVG to host 2026 Americas Netball World Cup Qualifier
St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) has been selected as the host nation for the 2026 Americas Netball World Cup Qualifier, following a decisive vote by the Americas Netball Region members on Wednesday. The prestigious tournament is set to take place from October 13 to 23, 2026, and will determine the two teams that will join Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls in representing the Americas Region at the Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia, scheduled for August 25 to September 5, 2027. Natasha Baptiste, President of the SVG Netball Association, expressed immense pride in this accomplishment and extended heartfelt gratitude to all supporters of the successful bid. Baptiste highlighted the event as a significant opportunity for sports tourism and a chance for the Vincy Jewels to compete on home turf. A critical factor in securing the bid was the official commitment from the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to transform the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex into an indoor facility, ensuring uninterrupted play regardless of weather conditions. Baptiste emphasized that this development would revolutionize the landscape for all indoor sports disciplines in the region. The SVG Netball Association is poised to begin planning and logistical preparations soon, as the nation gears up to host what is anticipated to be a historic milestone in Vincentian sports.
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Emotional Team Belize Regroups to Make History in Guatemala
Belize’s U-19 basketball team has etched their names in history by clinching a bronze medal at the 2025 Central American Games in Guatemala City. Despite the absence of their four top players, the young Jaguars showcased resilience and determination, securing victories against El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala twice. Their journey was not without challenges, as they faced a heartbreaking loss to Panama. Coaches Stephen Williams and Jacob Leslie played a pivotal role in rallying the emotionally charged team, refocusing their efforts on bringing home a medal. Jacob Leslie, President of the Basketball Federation, expressed immense pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing their heart and dedication. Head Coach Stephen Williams recounted the emotional locker room scene, where the players’ tears reflected their passion for the game. Point Guard Devin Moody and Lead Scorer Jason Orozco shared their determination to represent Belize with pride, while Wing Player Tevaughn Dawson highlighted the importance of continued support and resources to nurture future generations of Belizean basketball talent. This historic achievement not only celebrates the team’s success but also serves as an inspiration for the nation’s sporting future.
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Team Grenada set to contest OECS Swim Championship
The Grenada National Swim Team, comprising 34 talented athletes, is gearing up to compete in the 33rd OECS Swim Championship at the Drewsbury Aquatic Centre in St Vincent. Following rigorous trials held in late September, the Grenada Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) unveiled the squad, which spans various age categories from 8 & Under to 18 & Over. The team includes promising swimmers such as Brianne De Roche, Evie Twum-Barimah, Angeliner Glenes Jackson-Bain, and Nathan Fletcher, among others. Under the guidance of Head Coach Damique Walters and Assistant Coach Valorie Andrew, the team has been immersed in an intensive training program, emphasizing technique refinement and skill enhancement to elevate their competitive edge. This year’s competition holds special significance for Team Grenada, as they aim to reclaim the OECS Championship title after a three-year hiatus. While the team will miss the contributions of overseas-based swimmers like Tilly Collymore and Sara Dowden, the athletes remain highly motivated and focused on their goal. The team will depart for St Vincent on November 5 and 6, accompanied by team manager Ruth Collymore and a dedicated support staff, including Vice President Gail Purcell, PRO Beverly Benoit, and Technical Assistant Justin Steele. A strong contingent of parent supporters will also be present to bolster the team’s morale. Fans are encouraged to follow the championship via live streams on Facebook and YouTube, with GASA providing regular updates on its social media platforms.
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Ruim 30 LO-leerkrachten sluiting training 3×3 basketbal af
The Schoolsport Federatie Suriname (SSFS) recently organized a three-day 3×3 basketball training program for over thirty Physical Education (PE) teachers. Held from October 27 to 29 at the gymnasium of the Mr. Dr. J.C. De Miranda Lyceum, the initiative is part of Suriname’s preparation for the Inter Island Schoolgames 2026. This event, a sports exchange among Dutch-speaking Caribbean nations, marks Suriname’s recent inclusion and aims to provide students aged 10 to 17 with international sports experience.
During the opening ceremony, Enrique Ralim, Acting Director of Sport, emphasized the importance of investing in sports from an early age. “Sports development begins in primary school. Teachers play a pivotal role not only in shaping athletes but also in building character. Values like discipline, perseverance, and teamwork are essential for the future of our youth,” he stated.
SSFS Chairman Anil Ghisaidoobe highlighted the significance of capacity building and continuous professional development for the advancement of school sports. The training was led by Mike Nahar, assistant coach at the Suriname Basketball Association (SBA) and ambassador of the Dutch Basketball Federation (NBB). The program focused on enhancing the knowledge and practical skills of PE teachers, enabling them to better guide students in this dynamic and growing sport.
The initiative underscores the Ministry of Youth Development and Sport’s (JOS) commitment to fostering sports participation, talent development, and international collaboration within the school sports program. The training concluded on Wednesday with a certificate ceremony, where Nahar was honored with an award for his contributions.
Ralim addressed participants during the closing session, emphasizing the societal impact of sports. “Sports are not just about performance but about character building. Perseverance, discipline, respect, and teamwork are the foundations for growth—both on the field and in daily life,” he said. He urged teachers to embrace their role as mentors, inspiring young people to believe in themselves, pursue goals, and face challenges with confidence.
The training not only equipped teachers with new skills but also strengthened the school sports network and the collective effort toward sustainable sports development in Suriname.
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Main Mistress delivers in style, secures Announcers’ Trophy victory
In a thrilling display of equine prowess, Main Mistress, a four-year-old American-bred filly trained by Peter-John Parsard, clinched victory in Division One of the $1.25-million Front Runner-sponsored Caymanas Park Announcers’ Trophy on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Ridden by jockey Omar Walker, the dark bay/brown filly dominated the Restricted Overnight Allowance race over 6 ½ furlongs (1,300m), finishing a length and a half ahead of competitors Cookie Day N Night and Huntsman. The winning time was an impressive 1:20.0. Parsard, while hoping for a more effortless win, expressed his delight at Main Mistress’s performance, attributing the success to Walker’s aggressive and precise riding. The filly is now set to compete in the Grade 3 St Elizabeth Distaff on Jamaica Cup race day (November 8), though the event’s future remains uncertain due to Hurricane Melissa. Main Mistress broke well, tracked the leaders, and surged ahead at the half-mile marker, maintaining her lead despite a late challenge from Cookie Day N Night. Parsard noted that Main Mistress had shown promise in her previous race and was a strong contender in this class. The victory marks a significant achievement for Parsard and his team, as they prepare for the next challenge.
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A REAL SISTERHOOD
As the Reggae Girlz gear up for the Concacaf W Qualifiers next month, Head Coach Hubert Busby Jr. has highlighted the importance of fostering team spirit and camaraderie within the squad. This focus comes after Jamaica’s dominant 4-1 victory over Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) in an international friendly held in Couva on Tuesday. Jody Brown led the charge with a brace, while Natasha Thomas and Tianna Harris added to the scoreline. T&T’s lone goal came from Nikita Gosine.
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Police square off with Central in tasty TTPFL clash
The 2025/26 TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) is heating up as MIC Central FC and Miscellaneous Police FC prepare for a thrilling encounter on October 31 at the Arima Velodrome. This match pits last season’s runners-up against the third-placed team, promising high stakes and intense competition. Both teams have started the season strongly, with Police FC securing a dominant 4-0 victory over San Juan Jabloteh, thanks to a first-half brace from Kwesi ‘Jep’ Allen and a goal from veteran Joevin Jones. Meanwhile, Central FC edged out Point Fortin Civic with a 2-1 win, courtesy of goals from Daniel David and Junior Asson. The history between these two teams adds to the anticipation, as their previous encounter in the 2024/25 season ended in a dramatic 7-5 victory for Police FC. Jones, who previously played for Central FC in the Concacaf Caribbean Cup, will now lead Police FC against his former team. In the second match of the double-header, AC Port of Spain will face San Juan Jabloteh, aiming to build on their opening-weekend draw against defending champions Defence Force. The TTPFL action continues on November 1 and 2 with several key matchups, including Army/Coast Guard vs. Eagles FC and 1976 FC Phoenix vs. Prisons FC. The league’s opening weekend saw Police FC, Prisons, Central FC, and Club Sando all secure wins, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
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Promenade Chess tour continues at Valpark November 2
The Promenade Chess Club Grand Tour, a celebrated chess competition series, is set to continue its journey at Valpark Plaza in Valsayn on November 2, starting at 1 pm. This event will feature multiple divisions, including the open section, Under-12, and Under-8 categories, catering to chess enthusiasts of all ages. Participants in the open division will compete for cash prizes, with the winner taking home $1,000, the runner-up receiving $700, and the third-place finisher earning $500. Meanwhile, the Under-12 category will award trophies to the top three players, and medals will be given to the leading participants in the Under-8 division. Registration remains open until noon on November 2, with senior players required to pay $120 and juniors $110 via the Hayden Lee chequing account at Republic Bank (Account Number: 340045180501). The first 100 registrants will enjoy complimentary pizza and ice cream. For further details, interested individuals can contact 743-7359, 734-8562, or 780-2437. The event has been made possible through the generous support of sponsors such as Pizza Hut, Radica Trading, Basic Transport, Marios, Galactica, KFC, and Tyco Farms. Over the past few months, the Promenade Chess Club has successfully hosted tournaments at various locations, including South Park Mall and Trincity Mall, fostering a vibrant chess community across the country.