分类: sports

  • Alzarri Joseph Named Senior Sportsman of the Year at 2025 National Sports Awards

    Alzarri Joseph Named Senior Sportsman of the Year at 2025 National Sports Awards

    In a ceremony celebrating national athletic excellence, West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has received the prestigious Senior Sportsman of the Year award for 2025 in Antigua and Barbuda. The honor was bestowed by Daryll S. Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, during the National Sports Awards, which recognize exceptional achievement, resilience, and representation on the global stage.

    Joseph, widely regarded as one of the Caribbean’s premier pace bowlers, enjoyed a remarkably successful year in international cricket. His performance metrics were exceptional, with 31 wickets taken across various formats. Among these was a decisive five-wicket haul against cricketing giants Australia. Furthermore, he achieved a significant personal milestone by surpassing 200 career wickets in T20 cricket, solidifying his reputation as a dominant force in the sport’s shortest format.

    Beyond his international exploits, Joseph also delivered standout performances in domestic competitions, demonstrating his all-round capabilities with both bat and ball. Award organizers highlighted that his consistent excellence and emerging leadership qualities have not only cemented his status as a world-class athlete but have also made him an inspirational ambassador for his nation.

    The National Sports Awards serve as an annual platform to honor athletes, coaches, and sports officials who have achieved distinction and brought pride to Antigua and Barbuda through their sporting endeavors over the previous year.

  • West Indies return delayed as Iran conflict disrupts flights

    West Indies return delayed as Iran conflict disrupts flights

    The West Indies men’s national cricket team faces unexpected travel complications in India as escalating military conflicts in the Persian Gulf region disrupt international air travel. The team’s scheduled departure following their elimination from the ICC T20 World Cup has been indefinitely postponed due to widespread airspace closures across the Middle East.

    Cricket West Indies issued an official statement confirming the delay stems from “security threats posed by military action in the Gulf Region,” which has compelled airlines to cancel or reroute numerous international flights. The organization emphasized that player safety remains their utmost priority and that all team members are currently secure in their Indian accommodations.

    The travel disruption extends beyond cricket, with the Association of Tennis Professionals reporting similar challenges. Several players and staff remain sheltered in Dubai hotels following recent tournaments, with the ATP confirming they are providing full support to affected individuals.

    This international travel crisis follows recent U.S. airstrikes in Iran authorized by President Donald Trump after failed diplomatic negotiations. Regional reports indicate significant casualties, with over 200 fatalities and 700 injuries in Iran, plus additional U.S. military casualties from retaliatory strikes on American bases in Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

    Cricket West Indies officials are collaborating with the International Cricket Council, government authorities, and airline partners to arrange safe passage home for the team once airspace security stabilizes.

  • Official of the Year 2025: Rawle Lee Honoured at National Sports Awards

    Official of the Year 2025: Rawle Lee Honoured at National Sports Awards

    In a prestigious ceremony orchestrated by Sports Minister Daryll S. Matthew, volleyball official Rawle Lee has been crowned Official of the Year at the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda National Sports Awards. The honor was formally bestowed by Dr. Colin Greene, the nation’s Commissioner of Sports, in recognition of exceptional contributions to sports officiating and behind-the-scenes excellence in competitive athletics.

    Lee, who holds dual roles as a FIVB-certified referee and the National Referee Coordinator for the Antigua and Barbuda Amateur Volleyball Association, received the award for his transformative impact on volleyball officiating standards both domestically and throughout the Caribbean region. His pioneering achievement of becoming Antigua and Barbuda’s first-ever Continental Referee at the XVIII Pan American Cup was highlighted as a landmark accomplishment for the nation, signaling his expanding influence within international sporting circles.

    Event organizers emphasized that Lee’s professional approach—characterized by unwavering discipline, integrity, and leadership—has substantially elevated the quality and development of volleyball officiating in the country. The National Sports Awards ceremony serves as an annual platform to honor athletes, coaches, and officials whose dedicated service and outstanding performances drive the advancement of sports across the nation.

  • Teddy Daley Named Coach of the Year at National Sports Awards

    Teddy Daley Named Coach of the Year at National Sports Awards

    In a ceremony celebrating national sporting excellence, Teddy Daley, the head coach of the Power Speed and Endurance Track Club, was distinguished as the Coach of the Year for 2025. The Antigua and Barbuda National Sports Awards bestowed this honor, presented by Ena Henry, the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Education and Sports. The accolade specifically acknowledges coaching professionals who exhibit exceptional leadership and achieve remarkable success in athlete development.

    Daley’s coaching prowess in athletics was quantified by an extraordinary competitive season where his proteges secured over 50 gold medals. This impressive haul was complemented by the attainment of multiple national championships, medals at the prestigious CARIFTA games, and the setting of new regional records. Award organizers emphasized that Daley’s influence transcends mere podium finishes. They highlighted his profound role as a mentor, his unwavering personal dedication, and his unique emphasis on ensuring the academic progression of the athletes under his guidance.

    As a component of this distinguished recognition, Daley was granted a two-year scholarship to the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. The National Sports Awards serve as an annual institution to applaud the accomplishments of the nation’s athletes, coaches, and sports administrators who are instrumental in the continued advancement and elevation of sports throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

  • U-20 Natio wint met 4-0 van Grenada

    U-20 Natio wint met 4-0 van Grenada

    The U-20 men’s national team showcased exceptional prowess with a commanding 4-0 triumph over Grenada in their recent international fixture. Fielding a revitalized offensive formation, the squad demonstrated remarkable discipline, motivation, and overall dominance throughout the match.

    Midfield maestro Jemairo Djoe orchestrated the game’s tempo with precision, establishing control from the opening minutes. The scoring initiative commenced in the 17th minute when Josias Elgin expertly headed home a corner kick, placing Natio ahead 1-0.

    Grenada nearly equalized in the 22nd minute following a dangerous cross that required goalkeeper Tyronne Chaar to make a critical intervention, with the ball ultimately ricocheting off the crossbar. This narrow escape seemed to galvanize the national team, who maintained firm control thereafter.

    Jeremiah Nirk elevated the scoreline to 2-0 in the 36th minute with an impressive individual effort, skillfully bypassing two Grenadian defenders before delivering a clinical finish. The halftime interval did little to disrupt Natio’s momentum, as Michel Doekoe capitalized on a poorly defended free kick just two minutes into the second half, extending the lead to 3-0.

    The technical staff implemented strategic substitutions in the 65th minute, with newly introduced players immediately impacting the game. Substitute Xavi Dors provided a precise assist to fellow reserve Janeiro Ligeon, who sealed the definitive 4-0 scoreline.

    This comprehensive victory underscores the U-20 selection’s progressive development and tactical maturity, signaling promising prospects for future competitions.

  • STATEMENT: President of Cricket West Indies, Dr. The Hon. Kishore Shallow on ICC Men’s T20 loss against India

    STATEMENT: President of Cricket West Indies, Dr. The Hon. Kishore Shallow on ICC Men’s T20 loss against India

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow has publicly praised the national team’s performance following their elimination from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Despite the disappointment of their Super 8s defeat against India at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Shallow emphasized the significant progress demonstrated throughout the tournament.

    The West Indies team concluded their campaign with an impressive record of five victories in seven matches, showcasing notable growth in team cohesion and competitive belief. According to Dr. Shallow, this achievement underscores the thorough preparation and dedication of both players and support staff. The team’s journey to the knockout stages represented a substantial step forward for Caribbean cricket.

    Particularly noteworthy was the team’s demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit, which resonated deeply with fans across the region. This display of determination reinforced pride in West Indies cricket and highlighted the character inherent in the squad. The leadership of Head Coach Daren Sammy and the contributions of the entire support staff received special recognition for their role in building a solid foundation for future competitions.

    Dr. Shallow concluded his statement with a forward-looking perspective, affirming that the team would regroup and return to international competition with strengthened unity and clear purpose. The message ended with a traditional rallying cry for continued support of West Indies cricket, emphasizing the enduring connection between the team and its supporters.

  • West Indies crash out of T20 World Cup

    West Indies crash out of T20 World Cup

    The West Indies’ quest for another ICC championship met a heartbreaking conclusion as India delivered a knockout blow in their virtual quarterfinal clash during the final Super Eight stage of the T20 World Cup. Played on March 1 at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens stadium, the match unfolded before a predominantly pro-Indian crowd creating an electrifying atmosphere.

    After being sent in to bat by Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav, the Caribbean side adopted a measured approach during the powerplay. Captain Shai Hope and makeshift opener Roston Chase established a solid foundation with a 68-run opening partnership. Despite an early reprieve, Chase eventually departed for 41 runs, while Hope’s dismissal preceded a controversial caught-behind decision that cut short Shimron Hetmyer’s explosive 27-run cameo from just 12 deliveries.

    The innings gained crucial momentum through a dynamic 76-run fifth-wicket stand between Rovman Powell and Jason Holder, propelling the West Indies to a competitive 195/4. Holder remained unbeaten on 37, while Powell’s unconquered 34 included a historic milestone—the Jamaican powerhouse recorded his 150th T20 International six for the West Indies, setting a new national record.

    India’s response began methodically, maintaining 8.83 runs per over during the powerplay despite the West Indies striking early blows by removing Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma. The game’s momentum shifted dramatically through Sanju Samson’s masterclass, who partnered with captain Yadav for a crucial 58-run third-wicket partnership. Although Yadav received a lifeline at 17, he fell shortly after for 18 runs.

    At the twelve-over mark, the contest stood perfectly balanced with both teams locked at 104 runs. After several explosive batting overs, India required 19 runs from the final two overs. Samson’s magnificent unbeaten 97 guided the hosts to a record chase, ultimately eliminating the Men in Maroon from tournament contention.

    In his final World Cup post-match interview, West Indian skipper Shai Hope reflected: ‘You never want to exit at this stage. One more victory would have secured our semifinal berth, and with continued performance, a place in the championship final. I must commend the team’s effort—we maintain high performance standards and must capitalize on critical moments to deliver our best cricket when it matters most.’

  • Waterhouse beat Spanish Town Police FC to move up to fifth in JPL

    Waterhouse beat Spanish Town Police FC to move up to fifth in JPL

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Waterhouse Football Club delivered a commanding performance on Monday evening at Drewsland Stadium, securing a 3-0 victory against bottom-ranked Spanish Town Police FC in their Jamaica Premier League encounter. This result propels Waterhouse into fifth position in the league standings while extending their impressive unbeaten streak to six consecutive matches.

    The home team now stands at 34 competition points, narrowly surpassing defending champions Cavalier SC by a single point. Nevertheless, they remain nine points adrift of the coveted top four positions that guarantee playoff qualification.

    Breaking the deadlock just before halftime, Omani Leacock provided Waterhouse with a crucial advantage. The match remained tightly contested until late in the second half when strategic substitutions proved decisive. Shamarie Dallas, introduced in the 64th minute, amplified the lead with a 76th-minute strike before Mario Simms delivered the final blow in the 90th minute to complete the comprehensive victory.

    In the opening match of Monday’s double-header, Harbour View and Molynes United engaged in a dramatic 2-2 draw characterized by momentum shifts and disciplinary issues. Molynes United established an early dominance with Rolando Barrett (6th minute) and Nicholas Nelson (10th minute) creating a two-goal advantage within the opening ten minutes.

    Harbour View mounted a determined comeback with Trayvone Reid narrowing the deficit in the 29th minute with his league-leading 14th goal. The match’s complexion changed dramatically when Molynes United’s Dhumar McLaughlin received his second booking just before halftime, reducing his side to ten men.

    The numerical advantage enabled Harbour View to pursue an equalizer, which Rushane Thompson ultimately delivered in the 83rd minute. However, the match concluded with both teams at ten players after Reid received two yellow cards within a ten-minute span, marking a contentious conclusion to the encounter.

  • HOOPS BOOST!

    HOOPS BOOST!

    Jamaica has triumphantly concluded its inaugural hosting of major international basketball fixtures, marking a watershed moment in the nation’s sporting history. The National Indoor Sports Centre witnessed capacity crowds exceeding 6,000 spectators for both of the national team’s Group Stage matches in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Americas Qualifiers. The historic games against The Bahamas and Canada represented the first time in nearly five decades of regional competition that the island has staged such high-level international basketball.

    The success of the event was underscored by the presence of national sporting icons, including eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt and former world record holder Asafa Powell. The sprint legend expressed his profound support for the team’s growing visibility, stating, ‘I’m Jamaican through and through so I’ll always support. It’s a big deal for the country to be in this space for the first time. This gives younger kids who love basketball a chance to get involved more.’

    Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) President Paulton Gordon hailed the events as foundational for the sport’s future. Overcoming previous financial hurdles that forced the forfeiture of a November home game against Puerto Rico, JABA successfully secured the $44 million required to host these qualifiers. Gordon emphasized the transformative power of showcasing elite basketball, noting the attendance of student athletes from across the island, including Montego Bay. ‘Jamaicans like a good show and basketball, with the environment and the arena effect they certainly will support basketball at the highest level,’ Gordon told the Jamaica Observer. ‘We want to continue to do that so that they see what it’s about and they aspire to be at this level or even beyond.’

    The national team now looks ahead to away fixtures against The Bahamas and Canada in July. With a potential place in the final round of qualifying on the horizon, Jamaican fans could be treated to more home games as the squad battles for one of six available spots in the 2027 FIBA World Cup in Qatar.

  • KC, JC in hunt for U-14, U-16 football triumph

    KC, JC in hunt for U-14, U-16 football triumph

    The stage is set for an electrifying conclusion to the urban area schoolboy football championships as the semifinal round commences this week. Jamaica College finds itself at the center of a crucial double-header on Monday at Calabar High School, with teams competing in both the Under-14 and Under-16 divisions.

    The afternoon begins with JC’s Under-14 squad facing the formidable Wolmer’s Boys’ team at 2:00 PM. Though Wolmer’s enters as the clear favorite with their impressive goal-scoring record throughout the season, Jamaica College carries renewed confidence following their scoreless draw against defending champions Kingston College.

    Later at 4:00 PM, attention shifts to the Under-16 semifinal where JC confronts defending champions St. Andrew Technical High School (STATHS). The matchup presents a compelling psychological dynamic—while STATHS is widely favored, they have historically struggled against Jamaica College in critical moments, having lost several Manning Cup finals and more recently the Walker Cup final to their rivals.

    On Tuesday, the focus moves to Emmett Park at St. George’s College where Kingston College attempts to advance both their Under-14 and Under-16 teams to the finals. The undefeated Under-14 squad, which has maintained a perfect defensive record without conceding a single goal all season, faces Campion College at 2:00 PM.

    The Tuesday finale features KC’s Under-16 team against Mona High at 4:00 PM. While Kingston College dominated their previous encounter with a decisive 6-2 victory, this rematch presents new challenges as KC will be missing key player Kelvin Brown, their National Under-17 standout who recently departed for an academy in Dubai.