Melanie Thomas, a seasoned football coach with over two decades of experience, has taken on a groundbreaking role as the Coordinator of Women’s Football at the Grenada Football Association (GFA). Her mission transcends training players; she aims to transform mindsets, establish equitable structures, and inspire a generation of girls to embrace football with passion and purpose. Thomas’ journey began at the age of four, evolving from a centre back to a coach with a dual passion for football and education. Her extensive career includes coaching at the Women’s Premier Soccer League, serving as Director of Operations for the University of New Mexico’s women’s team, and holding director roles in major youth clubs in Seattle and Los Angeles. Her credentials, including a USSF A Youth License and UEFA C certification, position her as one of the Caribbean’s most technically accomplished women’s football leaders. Thomas’ appointment marks her first international foray into women’s football development. She views this as a pivotal opportunity to create systems and opportunities that previously did not exist. Her immediate focus is on collaborating with primary and secondary schools to ensure girls have the support needed to take to the pitch. Thomas’ strategy emphasizes equity in access, aiming to make football a natural and enjoyable choice for girls. She is acutely aware of the cultural perception that football is a men’s sport and is committed to dismantling this stigma through community engagement, coach education, and grassroots expansion. Under her leadership, the GFA plans to relaunch girls’ grassroots festivals, support school competitions, and grow participation across every parish. Thomas’ role aligns with President Marlon Glean’s vision for football in Grenada, where women’s and girls’ football is a strategic pillar of national growth. She will work alongside FIFA Talent Coach Neil Murphy to elevate the technical and developmental standards of Grenadian football. Beyond technical goals, Thomas’ deeper aim is empowerment, helping girls realize their potential and belonging in the game. As she settles into her new role, engaging with coaches and igniting energy on the training field, it is evident that her impact will extend far beyond match day. Thomas is cultivating a movement that creates space for every girl in Grenada to dream, play, and thrive in football.
分类： sports
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Antigua Bermuda Race Returns in 2026 After Two-Year Break
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (Oct. 27, 2025) — The Antigua Bermuda Race, a prestigious 935-nautical-mile ocean challenge, is set to make its triumphant return on April 29, 2026, after a two-year hiatus. Organized by the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club in collaboration with Antigua Sailing Week, the event bridges the gap between Antigua Sailing Week (April 22–26) and SailGP Bermuda (May 9–10). Supported by key sponsors including the Bermuda Tourism Authority, Goslings Rum, and Fairhaven Shipyard, the race welcomes a diverse fleet of IRC and CSA yachts, cruiser racers, multihulls, super yachts, classics, and double-handed teams. Motor-assisted yachts are also eligible to compete under a unique handicap rule. The race begins at Fort Charlotte, Antigua, with participants sailing past Barbuda and into the open ocean, culminating at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club by May 7. Les Crane, the Race Chair, emphasized the event’s appeal, stating, ‘The race offers a great option to take your boat north out of the Caribbean in a safe, economic, and highly enjoyable way.’ Registration opens on November 15, and the 2026 Notice of Race is now accessible online.
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La Clery keeps rising in SPFL
The Saint Lucia Semi Professional Football League witnessed a weekend of intense action and unexpected outcomes, with defending champions La Clery solidifying their position at the top of the table. Despite having a game in hand, La Clery showcased their dominance with a commanding 4-1 victory over South Castries. The match marked their return to the field after a three-week hiatus following the tragic passing of young talent Ajani Hippolyte. Yanic Noel, Daniel Martie, and Mervin St Romain scored in the first half, while Malik St Prix added another in the second half, securing La Clery’s continued supremacy. Meanwhile, former leaders Mabouya Valley stumbled, suffering a 1-0 defeat to Soufrière, who capitalized on home advantage to secure only their third win in 12 matches. Jahzani Henry’s early goal proved decisive, leaving Mabouya Valley struggling to close the gap on La Clery, who now lead by 11 points. In other matches, Canaries edged Central Castries 2-1, with Jadan Longville and David Henry scoring either side of halftime. Despite a late goal from Messiah Pinel, Central Castries failed to salvage a draw, extending their winless streak since early September. Dennery also made strides, climbing off the bottom of the table with a resounding 4-1 victory over Choiseul, thanks to goals from Elijah Joseph and a brace from Denelson Jones. The weekend’s results have reshaped the league standings, with La Clery firmly in control and several teams battling to avoid relegation.
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New York/Stubbs Masters, North East Masters continue to win
The 2025 SVG International Masters T20 Cricket Festival witnessed thrilling performances on Day 2, with New York/Stubbs Masters and North East Masters securing their second consecutive victories in the Festival Division. New York/Stubbs Masters triumphed over Clarke Road Veterans by 51 runs at the Sion Hill Playing Field, thanks to a strong batting display. Mark Audain’s 54, Max Richardson’s 41, and Nurlon Williams’ 25 propelled their total to 177 for 7 in 20 overs. Clarke Road Veterans, despite Gregory Mahabir’s 53 and Ravi Samaroo’s 25, were restricted to 126 for 9, with Orlando Mofford’s impressive 4 for 16 sealing the win. Meanwhile, North East Masters edged past Cricket Canada Masters Council by 1 wicket with 2 balls remaining. Cricket Canada Masters Council posted 101 all out, with Vinay Devisetty scoring 34. North East Masters, led by Shane Shillingford’s 42 and Deighton Butler’s unbeaten 36, narrowly reached the target. In another exciting match, RSVG Police Masters defeated Sarasota International Cricket Club 40+ by 6 runs, with Hyron Shallow’s 58 being the highlight. The Fete Division also saw intense action, with Windies Masters, Monroe Road Masters, and Canada Masters Cricket Club securing victories. Windies Masters defeated D & D Auto World by 6 wickets, while Monroe Road Masters overcame AMAAS Sporting Services Barbados Veterans by 5 wickets. Canada Masters Cricket Club dominated Trinbago Leatherbacks with a 10-wicket win, thanks to Naveed Sehrai’s explosive 109 not out. AMAAS also shone in Group B, defeating VJ’s North Windward Masters by 153 runs, with Andy Payne’s 109 leading the charge. Day 3 promises more excitement with 10 matches scheduled across both divisions.
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Windies claim first T20I against Bangladesh
The West Indies have claimed a 1-0 lead in the Dutch-Bangla Bank T20 International Series after a hard-fought victory against Bangladesh on October 27. The match, held at the Bir Shreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Cricket Stadium in Chattogram, drew a lively crowd as both teams geared up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The game also marked a milestone for former West Indies captain Rovman Powell, who celebrated his 100th T20 International appearance in a revamped squad following their recent loss to Nepal.
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the West Indies faced early struggles, scoring just 35 runs in the powerplay. However, a 50-run partnership between the openers set the stage for a recovery. Captain Shai Hope led the charge with a blistering 46 off 28 balls, while Powell overcame a sluggish start to contribute 44 runs off 28 deliveries. Their 83-run partnership propelled the West Indies to a competitive total of 165-3, with 64 runs coming in the final five overs.
Bangladesh’s chase began shakily, losing four wickets in the powerplay and ending the phase at 42-4. Despite valiant efforts from Tanzid Hasan Sakib (33) and Nasum Ahmed (20), the West Indies maintained relentless pressure, taking wickets at crucial intervals. The match reached a dramatic conclusion in the final over when Taskin Ahmed accidentally stepped on his stumps, sealing a 16-run victory for the West Indies.
The Men in Maroon will aim to capitalize on this momentum in the second match, scheduled for October 29 at the same venue, as they seek to secure the series.
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‘Reds’ Perreira backs Desmond Haynes as new batting coach
Renowned West Indies cricket commentator Dr. Joseph Reds Perriera has endorsed legendary batsman Desmond Haynes as a potential batting coach for the Men in Maroon ahead of their upcoming tour to New Zealand. This recommendation comes amid the Caribbean team’s persistent batting struggles, particularly in the red-ball format. Perriera emphasized that Raymond Reifer’s tenure as batting coach has run its course, suggesting a fresh approach is needed.
Desmond Haynes, a revered figure in cricket, was one of the most consistent opening batsmen during the 1980s and early 1990s, boasting an impressive batting average of 42.29. His cricketing expertise extends beyond the field, having served as the Lead Selector for the West Indies Men’s teams from January 2022 to June 2024. In April 2025, Haynes was appointed to the ICC Men’s Cricket Committee, representing the West Indies on one of the sport’s most influential governance bodies.
Although Haynes has limited official coaching experience, he has made significant contributions in coaching roles, including leading the Barbados Tridents to a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title in 2014. He has also mentored several West Indian players, offering valuable insights to improve their performance.
Perriera highlighted Haynes’ successful track record in New Zealand and his ability to connect with players, making him an ideal candidate for the role. He also suggested the inclusion of New Zealander James Franklin in the coaching unit to bolster fielding and catching, areas where the West Indies have struggled. Franklin previously worked with the team under Daren Sammy and could provide crucial support in adapting to New Zealand’s challenging conditions.
The West Indies’ tour of New Zealand, commencing on November 5, will feature five T20Is, three ODIs, and three Test matches. These proposed coaching changes aim to enhance the team’s preparation and competitiveness on the international stage.
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Suriname schittert tijdens North ISH Open 2025 IPSC Level 3
Suriname played host to the North ISH Open 2025, the year’s most prestigious shooting sports competition, held over three days. This IPSC Level 3 event attracted over fifty marksmen from both domestic and international arenas, showcasing exceptional precision, speed, and sportsmanship. While international participation fell slightly short of expectations, the foreign competitors compensated with their high-caliber performances. The Surinamese delegation stood out, securing podium finishes across nearly all categories. Ronald Brown (USA) claimed victory in the Standard Class, followed by France’s Régis Lemaitre and Suriname’s Andy Liu. Lemaitre also triumphed in the Standard Senior Class, with Liu and Bai Hongan in second and third places, respectively. Brown continued his dominance in the Standard Super Senior Class, ahead of Jean Condet and Marcel Tjon Kon Joen. In the Lady Class, Suriname achieved a clean sweep, with Tamani Stuger taking the top spot, flanked by Margery van Dijk-Amatdas and Angelique Tjon Kon Joen. Andrew Wilson emerged victorious in the Pistol Caliber Carbine (PCC) Class, trailed by Shaquille Liauw Kie Fa and Will Liu. Suriname’s Justin Heidanus, Alex Stuger, and Nicholson Zheng dominated the Production Optics Class. The Production Class saw Bruce Djosetiko claim the title with ease, followed by Nigel Sloot and Marc Loor, completing another all-Surinamese podium. Five prestigious IPSC President’s Medals were awarded to Ronald Brown (twice), Justin Heidanus, Tamani Stuger, and Régis Lemaitre. Suriname’s remarkable achievements at the event reaffirm its growing prominence in the international IPSC community, signaling a bright future for the sport.
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BVA Slams Refereeing in Bronze Medal Loss to Panama
The Belize Volleyball Association (BVA) has expressed profound dissatisfaction with the officiating during the bronze medal match between Belize and Panama at the 2025 Central American Games in Guatemala. In a statement released on October 23, the BVA criticized head referee Tatiana Villalobos of Costa Rica for a contentious decision in the fifth set. With Panama leading 13–12, a ‘ball out’ call was made against Belize, despite what the BVA claims was clear evidence that the ball had touched a Panamanian player. The point was awarded to Panama, giving them match point. Belize’s team captain sought clarification, but the referee refused to consult with other officials. Shortly after, a red card was issued to a Belizean player for an emotional reaction, granting Panama the final point and the bronze medal. Upon returning home, the team remained silent, visibly disheartened. However, members of the women’s team voiced their solidarity and frustration over the outcome. The BVA described the incident as a ‘grave injustice’ that not only impacted the match’s result but also violated the principles of fair play. The association has lodged formal complaints with AFECAVOL, NORCECA, and FIVB, demanding a thorough investigation and measures to prevent future occurrences. While acknowledging the unchangeable result, the BVA reaffirmed its unwavering support for the national team, praising their integrity, passion, and professionalism throughout the tournament.
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Rovman Powell trying to bat more responsibly for West Indies
West Indies batsman Rovman Powell delivered a match-winning performance in the first T20 against Bangladesh on October 27, earning the Player of the Match award. Powell’s strategic approach to pacing his innings proved pivotal as he unleashed a barrage of boundaries in the final overs, guiding West Indies to a commanding total of 165/3. His explosive batting, particularly in the last two overs, saw him smash three consecutive sixes off Bangladesh pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib, propelling the team past the 150-run mark. Powell’s unbeaten 44 off 28 balls, including one four and four sixes, was instrumental in securing a 16-run victory for the West Indies. Reflecting on his performance, Powell credited his success to a batting template he has honed over the past two years, emphasizing the importance of a steady start followed by aggressive hitting in the final overs. The victory was also a milestone for Powell, who celebrated his 100th T20 International match with this standout performance. He acknowledged the support of his family, friends, and teammates, as well as the crucial role played by the West Indies bowlers in restricting Bangladesh to 149 all out. The second match of the three-game series is scheduled for October 29.
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Goodbye Sammy
The West Indies cricket team has experienced both remarkable victories and significant challenges in recent years, with the spotlight often falling on their coaching and leadership. One of the most memorable moments came in January 2024 during the Australia/West Indies Test series. Guyanese fast bowler Shamar Joseph delivered an extraordinary performance, taking seven wickets for 68 runs in the second innings to secure a narrow eight-run victory for the West Indies at the Gabba in Brisbane. This win marked the team’s first triumph over Australia in two decades and helped them draw the series after losing the first Test. Joseph’s heroics, especially as a debutant in Test cricket, were a testament to his talent and resilience. Similarly, in January 2025, the West Indies managed to draw a Test series against Pakistan in challenging conditions on under-prepared pitches in Mirpur, despite losing the first Test. These achievements highlighted the team’s ability to bounce back under pressure. However, the narrative took a turn with the appointment of Darren Sammy as head coach. Sammy, a former player, has faced criticism for his lack of strategic acumen and inability to inspire the team. His frequent gesticulations from beyond the boundary have been described as more confusing than helpful. During a recent tour of Bangladesh, Sammy’s comments about not underestimating the opposition were seen as unnecessary, given the inherent competitiveness of international cricket. His failure to motivate players and instill confidence has raised concerns about his suitability for the role. In contrast, Bangladesh’s West Indian coach, Phil Simmons, has been praised for his effective leadership. The disparity in coaching styles underscores the importance of having a knowledgeable and inspiring figure at the helm to guide players through the rigors of international cricket.