Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Another ‘blow to sports’ in the west, says Smith after WA president visit called off

    Another ‘blow to sports’ in the west, says Smith after WA president visit called off

    Jamaica’s western sporting community has suffered a significant setback following the abrupt cancellation of World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe’s scheduled visit to the hurricane-damaged Montego Bay Sports Complex. Stephen Smith, President of the County of Cornwall Athletics Association (COCAA), characterized the cancelled Tuesday visit as “another blow to sports” in the region, highlighting ongoing neglect of athletic infrastructure in western Jamaica.

    The cancellation appears directly linked to protracted ownership uncertainties surrounding the multi-sport facility, which sustained severe damage during Category 5 Hurricane Melissa on October 28. Lord Coe had specifically interrupted his vacation in Turks and Caicos to assess hurricane damage and meet with track and field stakeholders regarding potential support mechanisms from World Athletics.

    Smith expressed profound disappointment, noting that local representatives had anticipated productive discussions about revitalizing the deteriorated facility. “We were hoping that we would have had some good news from Lord Coe,” Smith stated, suggesting even partial assistance from World Athletics could catalyze additional government or private sector investment.

    The complex’s track, originally laid in 2002, has remained unusable since 2018 due to hazardous conditions that render it dangerous for athletic competition. This deterioration compounds existing challenges for western Jamaican sports programs, with both football and track and field suffering from inadequate facilities.

    Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) President Garth Gayle acknowledged uncertainties regarding appropriate counterparts in Montego Bay contributed to the visit’s cancellation. The facility’s management has been in limbo since November 2024, when Montego Bay Multi Sports Development Limited submitted the sole bid to operate the complex to the St James Municipal Council—a proposal that remains unanswered after fourteen months.

    The situation underscores broader concerns about infrastructure investment disparities in Jamaican sports, particularly in regions outside the capital.

  • Alex Thomas to be assistant coach to Argentine Javier Ainstein at Waterhouse

    Alex Thomas to be assistant coach to Argentine Javier Ainstein at Waterhouse

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Waterhouse FC has strategically strengthened its coaching staff by appointing Alex Thomas as assistant coach to work alongside head coach Javier Ainstein for the remainder of the season. The appointment marks a significant development for the Jamaican football club as it seeks to enhance its technical leadership.

    Thomas brings substantial coaching expertise to his new role, having previously served as head coach at both Arnett Gardens and Molynes United. He replaces Jermaine Miller, who had been serving as interim coach following Marcel Gayle’s dismissal in December. Thomas’s most recent achievement includes leading Hydel High to the quarterfinals of the prestigious ISSA Manning Cup competition.

    The collaboration between Thomas and Ainstein shows immediate promise, with sources indicating the two coaches established strong alignment on strategic direction during their initial meeting this Tuesday. Thomas’s coaching credentials extend beyond Jamaica, having previously managed Slingerz FC in Guyana where he guided the team to an impressive second-place league finish while maintaining an unbeaten record throughout 2024.

    Football excellence runs deep in the Thomas family legacy. The 42-year-old coach follows in the footsteps of his older brothers, including the late Omar Thomas and former Reggae Boyz captain Shavar Thomas, who was recently appointed head coach of Connecticut United in the United States’ second-tier MLS competition.

    Alex Thomas’s football pedigree includes both playing and leadership experience at the highest levels. He represented Wolmer’s Boys in the Manning Cup and achieved the historic distinction of captaining Jamaica’s first youth team to qualify for a World Cup—the 1999 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in New Zealand. Two years later, he contributed to Jamaica’s second youth World Cup qualification for the 2001 FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Argentina, which was captained by his brother Shavar.

    Thomas’s international experience extends to the senior national team, having earned one cap for the Reggae Boyz under Serbian coach Bora Milutinović during the Lunar Cup tournament in China.

  • Argentine hired to ‘re-energise’ Waterhouse, push for Concacaf qualification

    Argentine hired to ‘re-energise’ Waterhouse, push for Concacaf qualification

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a strategic move to revitalize their campaign, Waterhouse Football Club has announced the immediate appointment of Argentine tactician Javier Ainstein as head coach. The UEFA A licensed professional takes charge of the eighth-placed team with a clear mandate: to secure CONCACAF qualification during the critical second half of the Jamaica Premier League season.

    The club’s Wednesday release emphasized that Ainstein’s extensive 15-year coaching pedigree across both CONMEBOL and CONCACAF regions brings unique tactical sophistication and player development expertise. Having meticulously studied the Jamaica Premier League for years, the Argentine has already assimilated rapidly into the club’s Drewsland environment.

    Club President Donovan White articulated the strategic vision behind the appointment: ‘Securing CONCACAF qualification remains our definitive objective this season. Coach Ainstein embodies the discipline, competitive mentality, and innovative approach essential for rejuvenating our squad’s push toward international qualification.’

    Chairman Bruce Bicknell reinforced the comprehensive nature of this transition, noting Ainstein’s central role in shaping transfer window strategies. ‘We’re strategically leveraging this transfer period in consultation with Coach Ainstein to enhance squad quality and competitive balance. Our focus is unequivocally fixed on ascending the standings and achieving our seasonal targets.’

    The appointment signals Waterhouse FC’s commitment to implementing international best practices and innovative methodologies as they endeavor to reclaim regional prominence. The club’s next challenge arrives Sunday at Waterhouse Mini Stadium in a highly anticipated 7:30 PM showdown against defending champions Cavaliers SC, offering an immediate test for the new coaching regime.

  • Coach Nurse: WI U-19s ready for anything at Youth World Cup

    Coach Nurse: WI U-19s ready for anything at Youth World Cup

    With unwavering confidence and thorough preparation, the West Indies men’s under-19 cricket team has commenced their campaign for ICC World Cup glory in Africa. Head coach Rohan Nurse declared his squad fully equipped to handle diverse challenges—from formidable opponents to arid pitch conditions—as they pursue cricket’s most prestigious youth championship running from January 15 to February 6.

    The 15-member contingent, featuring captain Joshua Dorne and 2024 World Cup standout Jewel Andrew, departed from Barbados’ Grantley Adams International Airport on January 6. Their journey follows an impressive preparatory phase that included Youth ODI series victories against Sri Lanka (4-3) and England (5-2) in late 2025, providing crucial momentum ahead of the global tournament co-hosted by Namibia and Zimbabwe.

    West Indies will engage in preparatory matches against Ireland (January 10) and Japan (January 13) before launching their Group D campaign against Tanzania on January 15. Subsequent group stage matches against Afghanistan (January 18) and South Africa (January 22) at Windhoek’s High Performance Oval will determine their progression to the Super Six phase. The tournament structure advances top three teams from each group, with semi-finals scheduled for February 3-4 and the championship finale at Harare Sports Club on February 6.

    Coach Nurse emphasized the squad’s tactical versatility: “We’ve assembled a balanced attack featuring quality fast bowlers and attacking wrist-spinners. Our players have demonstrated adaptability in both setting targets and chasing totals during recent series, which positions us favorably for World Cup challenges.”

    The team draws inspiration from West Indies’ historic 2016 under-19 World Cup triumph in Bangladesh, where current international stars like Shimron Hetmyer and Alzarri Joseph secured victory against India. Nurse has incorporated this legacy into motivational sessions while emphasizing the opportunity for this generation to create their own history.

    “We’re daring to dream,” Nurse stated. “Our minimum objective is advancing beyond the previous tournament’s performance. These young men understand the significance of representing the Caribbean and are ready to embrace this platform for professional development and regional pride.”

  • All Sectors Netball shoots off on January 10

    All Sectors Netball shoots off on January 10

    The Eastern Regional Indoor Sporting Arena in Tacarigua will host the opening day knockout tournament of the 2026 Courts All Sectors Netball League on January 10, commencing at 3 pm. This season marks a significant milestone with the introduction of a male division, reflecting World Netball’s growing emphasis on men’s participation at the international level.

    Four teams will compete in the groundbreaking male division: Bermudez United, Defence Force, Police, and Reboot Tigers. The league structure features 22 teams across four divisions, including five in premiership, eight in championship, five in alternative, and the four male teams.

    Defence Force and Police return to the premiership division following Jabloteh’s withdrawal, joining Reboot Tigers, Unit Trust Sparks, and University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). The championship division sees University of Southern Caribbean (USC) moving up from alternative division, alongside Fire Youth, Bermudez United, Defence Force, Police, Reboot Tigers, UTT, and University of the West Indies (UWI).

    The league serves as crucial preparation for elite competition, particularly significant as Trinidad’s senior national team prepares for the Commonwealth Games in Scotland this July. Traditional competitions including the Fast 5 format will continue, alongside major knockout tournaments honoring the league’s founders – the Jean Pierre and Steve Sarjeant challenge trophies, named after two of the six original founders from 1991 who have since passed away.

  • Philip Thomson’s unique cricket columns reissued

    Philip Thomson’s unique cricket columns reissued

    A cherished collection of cricket memoirs by the late columnist Philip Thomson has been reintroduced to the public through a collaborative publishing effort between Queen’s Park Cricket Club (QPCC), Thomson’s family, and author-producer Nasser Khan. The newly released hardcover edition of “Ramblings From The Distant Past” features 17 feature columns that capture Thomson’s experiences at QPCC and Queen’s Royal College during what many consider cricket’s golden era.

    The second edition represents a significant enhancement over the original 1996 publication, now presented in full color with an extensive collection of historical photographs from Thomson’s personal archives and specially commissioned watercolor paintings by renowned artist Jackie Hinkson. The book also incorporates line drawings from the late John Newel Lewis’s Ajoupa collection, obtained through special permission from his family.

    Thomson’s writing showcases extraordinary recall coupled with an engaging narrative style that transforms personal cricketing anecdotes into universally appealing humor. As noted in the original media release, his columns were “highly anticipated and readers laughed heartily at the many amusing and brilliantly recounted anecdotes.”

    Veteran sport reporter Everard Gordon, in his 1996 review titled “Thomson’s Ramblings will have you laughing,” attested to the book’s broad appeal, noting that even readers unfamiliar with cricket terminology could appreciate the stories. Gordon described how his frequent outbursts of laughter while reading made his family question his sanity.

    The reissue project was spearheaded by Thomson’s son Robert and niece Jennifer de Verteuil in partnership with QPCC officials. They emphasized that beyond the entertainment value, Thomson’s writings possess significant historical importance that deserves preservation and renewed public attention.

    The book is currently available at Queen’s Park Oval and various retail outlets including Paper Based Book Shop, National Trust Heritage, and Nigel R Khan, with ordering available by calling 461-0666.

  • Redevelopment work for National Stadium to commence July 2027

    Redevelopment work for National Stadium to commence July 2027

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A comprehensive redevelopment plan for Jamaica’s National Stadium has been officially announced, with construction scheduled to commence in July 2027. Sports Minister Olivia Grange revealed the ambitious project during a press conference organized by the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) this Wednesday.

    The extensive renovation will significantly enhance the stadium’s capacity and facilities. According to Minister Grange, the project will add approximately 10,000 new seats, bringing total concert capacity to nearly 50,000 spectators. The design incorporates multiple new stands at varying elevations, with most areas receiving coverage under an expansive sweeping roof structure.

    Notably, the historic grandstand will retain its original architectural integrity as it holds heritage status. Minister Grange emphasized that the iconic overhanging arch structure, which remains structurally sound since its initial construction, will be preserved unchanged due to its protected heritage designation.

    During the construction phase, Stadium East will undergo refurbishment to serve as a temporary venue for smaller events typically hosted at the National Stadium. The upgraded facility will also provide enhanced warm-up areas for athletes, officials, and improved amenities for patrons.

    The redevelopment will introduce state-of-the-art facilities including modernized changing rooms, dedicated medical areas for both athletes and spectators, specialized anti-doping testing facilities, concession areas, restrooms, throwing areas, and a new running track. This comprehensive upgrade aims to position Jamaica’s sporting infrastructure at international standards while preserving its historical significance.

  • Marabella Mile returns with relays, expanded age groups, equal prize money

    Marabella Mile returns with relays, expanded age groups, equal prize money

    The historic Marabella Mile returns for its 2026 edition with significant enhancements, transforming into the Marabella Mile and Relay Festival with expanded categories and increased financial rewards for athletes. Scheduled for January 18 from 2 PM, the event marks a crucial early-season competition on Trinidad and Tobago’s athletic calendar.

    San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris and Sports Committee Chairman Daniel Dookie joined National Association of Athletics Administrations (NAAA TT) president Ephraim Serrette in endorsing the event’s expansion during its official launch at San Fernando City Hall on January 6. The festival now incorporates relay competitions alongside the traditional one-mile race while extending age-group categories and implementing equal prize money for male and female competitors across all divisions.

    The prize structure demonstrates substantial investment in athlete development. Top-tier mile race winners will receive $1,200, with descending awards of $900, $700, $500, $400, and $300 for subsequent placements. Youth categories (U15, U17, U20) offer $300, $200, and $100 prizes, while masters divisions have been expanded to include 40-49, 50-59, and 60-plus age groups with $400, $300, and $200 rewards respectively.

    Mayor Parris emphasized the event’s alignment with the city’s developmental policies, stating: ‘We continue on the trajectory of our developmental policy as a city where we contribute towards sports, tourism, culture, arts, and education.’ He specifically acknowledged TECU Credit Union’s sponsorship role in reviving the staple event after its successful 2025 return.

    NAAA TT president Serrette recognized the event’s importance in launching the competitive season, noting: ‘We commend TECU for this initiative. There are many road events on the calendar, and we are pleased to see the TECU Marabella Mile included.’

    Elite athletes including national distance-runner Nicholas Romany and rising sensation Aniqah Bailey endorsed the event’s competitive value as an early-season benchmark. Romany observed that ‘sports are evolving and bringing people together,’ while double World Championships medalist Machel Cedenio praised the inclusion of relay events.

    The masters community welcomed the expanded categories, with National Masters Association president Sheldon Mason promising strong participation: ‘Masters is in full support of the Marabella Mile and we will come out in our numbers.’

    Boxer Tianna Guy, who attended the launch, confirmed her participation, noting that ‘running is part of boxing preparation. Initiatives like this support athlete development and promote health and well-being.’

    TECU Credit Union president Sandra Matthews-Noel reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to youth development and gender equality, highlighting equal prize money as a fundamental principle. The sponsorship coincides with TECU’s 80th anniversary of operations, adding significance to their community investment.

  • Treasure Beach and Dunbeholden seek elusive win

    Treasure Beach and Dunbeholden seek elusive win

    A pivotal rescheduled Jamaica Premier League fixture is set to unfold on Wednesday at the St Elizabeth Technical Sports Complex, where Treasure Beach FC will square off against Dunbeholden FC in a 3:00 pm kickoff. This encounter, originally slated for November 12th, was postponed due to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which necessitated additional recovery and preparation time for the Treasure Beach community.

    The match carries significant weight in the league’s tightly contested standings. A mere four points separate sixth from twelfth place, meaning a victory for either side promises a substantial climb up the table. Dunbeholden FC currently occupies 11th place with 14 points from 11 matches, while Treasure Beach sits just below with 12 points from 12 games played. This will be their first meeting since the previous season, which saw both encounters conclude in draws.

    Dunbeholden enters the match with a record of resilience in recent outings, suffering only one defeat in their last eight games. However, a pronounced offensive struggle has been their Achilles’ heel, managing a mere three goals during that span with an astonishing five matches ending in goalless stalemates. The team from St Catherine has netted only five goals all season.

    Conversely, Treasure Beach looks to halt a three-game losing streak, with each defeat coming by a narrow one-goal margin. A significant boost is anticipated for the squad, which is expected to welcome back several players after fielding a depleted roster of only 15 members in their recent 1-2 loss to Montego Bay United. Both clubs will be fiercely competing for a win that would provide crucial momentum and elevate their position in the league hierarchy.

  • Four Antiguans Depart for ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Duty

    Four Antiguans Depart for ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup Duty

    Four promising cricketers from Antigua have been chosen to represent the West Indies in the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. The selected athletes—Matthew Miller, Jewel Andrew, Micah McKenzie, and Tanez Francis—departed the island on January 4th to begin final preparations for the tournament, which will be hosted across Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15th to February 6th.

    Their inclusion in the regional squad highlights their status among the Caribbean’s most talented young players. This selection continues Antigua and Barbuda’s distinguished cricketing heritage, a nation that has historically produced legendary West Indies players including Sir Vivian Richards, Sir Richie Richardson, Sir Andy Roberts, and Sir Curtly Ambrose.

    The four athletes will now join the West Indies team as they prepare to compete against the world’s top junior cricketing nations. Their participation marks another significant chapter in Antigua’s contributions to regional cricket, carrying the hopes of their nation as the West Indies pursues championship glory in the prestigious international tournament.