Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Weymouth Wales set sights on PM Cup glory in $100 000 showdown

    Weymouth Wales set sights on PM Cup glory in $100 000 showdown

    Weymouth Wales and Kickstart Rush are poised for an epic confrontation in the Prime Minister’s Cup final, with both teams vying for the prestigious championship and the substantial $100,000 prize. The decisive match is scheduled for Monday, December 1st at the iconic Kensington Oval, marking a historic moment for Welsh football as they make their inaugural appearance in the tournament’s final stage.

    Under the strategic guidance of coach Asquith Howell, Weymouth Wales enters the final with unwavering determination to conclude their remarkable season triumphantly. The team’s journey to the championship match has been dominant, finishing Group F undefeated before delivering commanding performances against L&R United, Notre Dame (5-2), and a decisive 4-0 semifinal victory over Paradise FC.

    Howell emphasized the team’s collective strength, noting, “Wales’ depth is exceptionally robust with 22 players capable of starting positions. We maintain our strategic approach without adjustments, as every player understands their role in achieving victory for team Wales.” The squad faces one significant concern with striker Shaquille Stewart awaiting MRI results, an situation that has intensified the team’s motivation to secure the title in his honor.

    Kickstart Rush approaches the final with equal conviction, having redeemed last year’s semifinal exit by advancing to this year’s championship match. Captain Sekani Mayers expressed the team’s elevated confidence levels: “Our players have earned this opportunity through rigorous training regimens and unwavering dedication. We’ve strategically blended youthful enthusiasm with veteran experience to create an optimal competitive balance.”

    Manager Chad Bynoe confirmed the return of key player Renaldo Gilkes, who missed the semifinal victory against Wotton, providing additional leadership for the final encounter. Kickstart’s path to the final included topping Group D before securing victories against Greens United, a narrow 2-1 quarterfinal win over Deacons, and their semifinal triumph.

    The anticipated final represents not only athletic excellence but significant financial implications for the winning club, particularly with the holiday season approaching. Both teams have demonstrated exceptional form throughout the tournament, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable conclusion to Barbados’ premier football competition.

  • Grenada swimming benefits from World Aquatics Age Group Coach Course

    Grenada swimming benefits from World Aquatics Age Group Coach Course

    The Grenada Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) is advancing its coaching capabilities through participation in the prestigious World Aquatics Age Group Swim Coach certification program. Valorie Andrew, assistant coach to Grenada’s 2025 OECS Champion team, has been selected for this elite hybrid training initiative currently underway in Budapest, Hungary.

    Andrew departed Grenada on November 22, 2025, to engage in the comprehensive program that combines 20 hours of e-learning through World Aquatics’ digital platform with five days of intensive in-person sessions. She joins a globally selected cohort of dedicated coaches participating in this rigorous certification process.

    The curriculum addresses multiple critical coaching competencies including integrity and safe sport practices, sport psychology and mental wellbeing, technical stroke development, gender differences in athletic development, nutrition and hydration science, strength and conditioning methodologies, long-term athlete development principles, sports science applications, coaching responsibilities, practical coaching techniques, and strategic planning and periodization.

    The Budapest sessions feature interactive classroom workshops and hands-on practical coaching applications. Participants must complete all program components and pass both online examinations and practical assessments to achieve certification. This initiative aligns directly with GASA’s strategic development plan to enhance coaching capacity and elevate the quality of swim athlete development throughout Grenada.

    Upon her return on November 29, 2025, Andrew is expected to disseminate her acquired knowledge and experience to fellow local coaches, potentially transforming Grenada’s swimming coaching landscape and improving athlete performance outcomes across all age groups.

  • Sisserou Girls head to Jamaica with renewed confidence for CONCACAF qualifier

    Sisserou Girls head to Jamaica with renewed confidence for CONCACAF qualifier

    The Sisserou Girls, Dominica’s senior women’s football squad, have embarked on their journey to Kingston, Jamaica, for a pivotal CONCACAF qualification match this Saturday. Under the guidance of Head Coach Ronnie Gustave, the team approaches the challenge with measured optimism following intensive preparations.

    Gustave’s assessment reveals a team in transformation, addressing previously identified weaknesses from their UEFA tournament performance earlier this year. The coaching staff has implemented comprehensive improvements across technical execution, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude. “Our players demonstrated deficiencies in fundamental ball control, turning techniques, and overall pace during previous international competitions,” Gustave acknowledged. “However, recent training sessions have yielded noticeable advancements in ball movement and gameplay velocity.”

    The strategic enhancement program included specialized training to elevate passing precision and systemic play. “Our previous matches exposed inadequate speed on the pitch and imprecise passing,” Gustave explained. “We prioritized rectifying these elements before advancing our tactical approach.”

    Physical development received equal emphasis through a rigorous strength and conditioning regimen designed to combat previous vulnerabilities. “We addressed the concerning tendency of being easily dispossessed,” Gustave noted. “Our customized fitness program aims to build robust physicality, though we recognize team development remains an evolutionary process.”

    Beyond technical and physical preparation, the team engaged in psychological strengthening through motivational sessions with advocate Delia Coffee Weeks. Gustave emphasized the importance of role models, stating, “Our athletes benefit immensely from inspirational figures like Mrs. Weeks, whose experience and advocacy provide exemplary standards for emulation.”

    The upcoming confrontation presents a formidable challenge against Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz, widely regarded as the Caribbean’s premier women’s football team following their impressive performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they secured a historic draw against Brazil.

    Despite the evident disparity in ranking and experience, Gustave maintains a philosophy of collective resilience. “Football’s beauty lies in its unpredictability,” he asserted. “While Jamaica presents substantial challenges, our success hinges on unified teamwork, mutual commitment, and maximal collective effort. With complete physical and mental dedication, we are capable of delivering a respectable performance.”

  • Sammy confident West Indies can compete in New Zealand Test series

    Sammy confident West Indies can compete in New Zealand Test series

    West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has expressed strong confidence in his team’s capacity to mount a serious challenge against New Zealand in the impending two-match Test series, commencing December 1 at Christchurch’s Hagley Oval. Despite recent setbacks in the limited-overs leg of the tour, Sammy emphasized the measurable progress and competitive spirit his squad demonstrated.

    The Caribbean side arrives at the Test arena following defeats in both the five-match T20 International and three-match One Day International series against the Black Caps. However, Sammy’s analysis extends beyond the final results, highlighting that the team was competitively positioned to win five of the seven total white-ball games. He credited New Zealand for their formidable home record while underscoring the positive developments within his own unit, particularly their improved ability to handle the new ball and make critical decisions under pressure—key performance indicators for the longer format.

    Addressing the historical challenge, Sammy acknowledged that the West Indies have not secured a Test victory on New Zealand soil since 1995. He identified the primary objective as not just winning, but first establishing sustained competitiveness. The coach reported exceptionally high intensity in training sessions, indicating a positive and immediate reaction from the players to the team’s strategic objectives.

    On the selection front, the West Indies will be without the bowling services of both Alzzari Joseph and Shamar Joseph for the series. While admitting their absence diminishes the team’s firepower, Sammy pointed to the influx of eager young talent, such as Jayden Seales and Ojay Shields, who are prepared to step up. Ultimately, Sammy concluded that success will hinge on translating a positive mindset and rigorous preparation into flawless execution on the field, a principle he championed throughout his own playing and captaincy career.

  • Digital One books Mouttet Mile spot with Alsafra Trophy win

    Digital One books Mouttet Mile spot with Alsafra Trophy win

    Digital One, trained by Gary Subratie, has positioned herself as a formidable contender for Jamaica’s prestigious Mouttet Mile (US$300,000) following a dominant performance in the $1.25-million Alsafra Trophy at Caymanas Park on Sunday, November 23, 2025.

    The four-year-old American-bred bay filly delivered a tactical masterclass in the Overnight Allowance contest over 7½ furlongs (1,500m). Jockey Dane Dawkins executed a perfect race strategy, maintaining second position behind Neo Star (Jerome Innis) for most of the journey before seizing the lead at the top of the straight. In a thrilling stretch duel, Digital One demonstrated remarkable resilience to outbattle Supremasi (Dick Cardenas) and secure victory, with Divine Force (Raddesh Roman) claiming third. The winning time was recorded at 1:33.3.

    This triumph earned Digital One $682,000 in prize money, elevating her total stakes earnings to $3,139,550 and securing the 14th position on the Mouttet Mile entry list. The victory marks her third win from nine starts and demonstrates her growing consistency and potential.

    Subratie expressed measured optimism about his filly’s prospects in the upcoming December 6 Mouttet Mile, acknowledging the stiff competition she will face from established contenders like Rohan Crichton’s Legacy Isle and Anthony Nunes’ Nautical Star. ‘Unless Digital One shows up and whops them; but I don’t know,’ Subratie remarked with cautious realism.

    The trainer specifically praised jockey Dane Dawkins’ understanding of the horse, noting: ‘He knows her more than anybody else. He won the first race on her and has been doing well with her. She is young; she is only four years old. She is going to get a little better.’

    The victory ceremony saw trainer Fitznahum Williams presenting the Alsafra Trophy to Gary Subratie, commemorating Digital One’s significant achievement and setting the stage for her upcoming challenge in Jamaica’s richest race.

  • Manning Cup resumes with champions KC in danger

    Manning Cup resumes with champions KC in danger

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The ISSA Manning Cup football competition reignites this Friday following a one-month suspension due to Hurricane Melissa, setting the stage for a dramatic series of matches with quarterfinal implications hanging in the balance.

    All eyes are fixed on Group 2, where defending champions Kingston College (KC) confront a precarious must-win scenario against Campion College. After suffering an unexpected 0-1 defeat to Hydel High in their opener, KC languishes in third place. Simultaneously, a pivotal clash between group co-leaders Calabar High and Hydel High—both holding three points—will unfold at Calabar High School. A victory for either team in this encounter would secure their advancement, while a draw coupled with a KC win would intensify the standings.

    KC’s head coach, Vassell Reynolds, acknowledged the pressure while expressing confidence in his squad’s preparedness. “This is an extremely vital game at a difficult time, coming off a long layoff,” Reynolds stated. “However, we understand the situation and are well aware of what is required of us as defending champions. We expect the team to execute well.”

    The intrigue extends across other groups. In Group 4, perennial contenders Jamaica College (JC), holding just a single point, face St Jago in a critical bid to keep their championship aspirations alive. They trail Mona High, who sit comfortably atop the group with three points.

    Elsewhere, Group 3 features former champions St. George’s College, who are desperate for a victory against Vauxhall High after a loss in their initial match. The group is led by Charlie Smith High, who can clinch a quarterfinal berth with a win over St. Catherine High on Saturday.

    A top-of-the-table showdown in Group 1 will see Excelsior High and St. Andrew Technical High School (STATHS), both on three points, battle for an immediate spot in the next round.

    **Friday’s Fixtures:**
    * **Group 1:** Tivoli Gardens vs Wolmer’s Boys (Waterhouse Mini-Stadium, 2:00 pm); STATHS vs Excelsior (Waterhouse Mini-Stadium, 4:15 pm)
    * **Group 2:** Campion College vs Kingston College (Jamaica College, 2:00 pm); Calabar High vs Hydel High (Calabar High School, 3:00 pm)
    * **Group 3:** St. George’s College vs Vauxhall High (St. George’s College, 3:00 pm)
    * **Group 4:** Eltham High vs Mona High (Spanish Town Prison Oval, 3:00 pm); Jamaica College vs St Jago (Jamaica College, 4:15 pm)

  • Kofi Cockburn added to Jamaica’s Basketball team

    Kofi Cockburn added to Jamaica’s Basketball team

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national basketball team is set to commence its FIBA Basketball World Cup Americas Qualifiers campaign with a significantly altered roster, as the country’s premier NBA talents remain unavailable for selection. In their absence, the Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) has secured the services of Kofi Cockburn, a 26-year-old center currently competing with the Hiroshima Dragonflies in Japan’s professional league.

    Standing at seven feet tall, Cockburn brings a formidable presence to the paint. The Jamaican-born athlete developed his skills at St Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) before relocating to New York. He subsequently achieved collegiate stardom at the University of Illinois, where he earned two-time All-American honors—one of the highest individual accolades in US college basketball.

    Paulton Gordon, President of JABA, confirmed to Observer Online that regulatory restrictions prevented the inclusion of NBA players during this qualification window. “NBA players are not allowed to play in this window. They are not released from their teams,” Gordon stated. “The majority of our players are playing in Europe and Asia.”

    Gordon expressed enthusiasm about Cockburn’s inclusion, noting: “We are excited to have Kofi join the group. He was a standout player in the NCAA before he went to play professionally in South Korea and then Japan. Kofi is a dominant centre who will add steel and purpose to the team in the quest to establish Jamaica as a regional basketball powerhouse.”

    The complete Jamaican roster features: Joel Bailey, Drew Thelwell, Marcus McDonald, Omari Johnson, Jordan Kellier, Kentan Facey, Romaine Thomas, Chase Audige, Kofi Cockburn, Tyran DeLattibeaudiere, Giovanni Fraser, and Romario Gill.

    Drawn into Group B alongside Canada, The Bahamas, and first opponents Puerto Rico, Jamaica faces intense competition for a berth at the 2027 FIBA World Cup. The qualification pathway includes critical home fixtures against The Bahamas on February 26 and Canada on March 1.

    However, Jamaica faces infrastructural challenges in hosting these matches. The national federation is racing against time to upgrade facilities to meet FIBA’s stringent requirements. Mandatory improvements include installation of a new scoreboard, replacement of basketball hoops, enhanced broadcast-quality lighting, plus dedicated spaces for visiting teams, media personnel, and doping control operations.

    The Americas Qualifiers feature four groups:
    – Group A: United States, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua
    – Group B: Puerto Rico, Canada, Bahamas, Jamaica
    – Group C: Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Chile
    – Group D: Argentina, Uruguay, Panama, Cuba

  • Latapy Charity Golf in Trincity to help underprivileged youths

    Latapy Charity Golf in Trincity to help underprivileged youths

    Football icon Russell Latapy is channeling his passion for golf into philanthropic endeavors as his Education and Sport Foundation prepares to host its inaugural charity golf tournament on November 29. The event will unfold at Millennium Lakes Golf Course in Trincity, featuring a two-man scramble format with a shotgun start at 10 am.

  • Prisons go for 6th TTPFL win vs ‘Couva Sharks’

    Prisons go for 6th TTPFL win vs ‘Couva Sharks’

    The TT Premier Football League’s surprising early leaders Prisons FC face their most significant challenge yet as they prepare to clash with last season’s runners-up MIC Central FC Reboot at Arima Velodrome on November 29. The match represents a classic confrontation between the league’s established hierarchy and this season’s unexpected frontrunners.

    Prisons FC enters the match with a perfect record of five consecutive victories, accumulating 15 points and establishing an impressive defensive record with only two goals conceded. Their remarkable campaign includes notable triumphs over Terminix La Horquetta Rangers, second-placed Club Sando, and bottom-ranked FC Eagles. The team’s resurgence is particularly noteworthy given their recent consideration of withdrawing from the league before reversing that decision earlier this month under coach Dexter Cyrus.

    Their opponents, MIC Central FC, currently sit sixth in the standings with six points from four matches. Central FC seeks redemption following a devastating 6-1 defeat against a dominant Club Sando in their previous outing. The team has struggled with consistency, losing two of their four matches, including a 2-1 defeat to Miscellaneous Police FC last month that saw them reduced to ten men.

    The evening’s action begins with a 6 pm encounter between 2023/24 champions AC Port of Spain and tenth-placed 1976 FC Phoenix. AC Port of Spain, positioned fifth with eight points, aims to build momentum from their recent 2-1 victory over Point Fortin Civic, while Phoenix hopes to recover from a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to title-holders Defence Force that included a stoppage-time concession.

    Additional weekend fixtures feature seventh-placed San Juan Jabloteh against Club Sando at Mahaica Sporting Complex, while Police FC confronts Point Fortin Civic in a double-header arrangement. The league schedule has experienced disruptions with the postponement of Caledonia AIA’s match against Defence Force due to deteriorating field conditions caused by persistent rainfall.

    The current standings showcase Prisons FC’s commanding position at the summit, followed closely by Club Sando (12 points) and Police FC (10 points). Defence Force and AC Port of Spain complete the top five with eight points each, while Eagles FC remains at the bottom with just one point from five matches.

  • Butler gets red card as Manning Cup heats up

    Butler gets red card as Manning Cup heats up

    A contentious high school football match at Spanish Town Prison Oval descended into chaos on Friday, culminating in the dramatic sending-off of Mona High’s coach, Craig Butler. The flashpoint occurred following Mona’s narrow 0-1 defeat to Eltham High, a result that significantly reshapes the quarterfinal landscape.

    The match concluded with security personnel intervening on the pitch to restrain an incensed Butler as he advanced menacingly toward the match official. The referee was forced into retreat before issuing the red card to the furious coach.

    In an explosive post-match statement, Butler leveled serious allegations of incompetence and conflict of interest against the officiating team. ‘The referee permitted no fewer than five clear penalties to go unpunished,’ Butler asserted. ‘Their opening goal originated from a disputed free kick after my defender was fouled.’

    The coach further criticized the timekeeping, claiming: ‘He indicated nine minutes of added time but terminated the match after only four minutes, effectively robbing us of five crucial playing minutes.’

    Butler’s most severe accusation centered on the referee’s background, questioning the appointment of a recent Jamaica College graduate to officiate a match where JC stood to benefit from Mona’s defeat. ‘How can you assign a JC old boy when JC gains the most from a Mona loss?’ he demanded.

    The result propels strategic implications for Group 4. Mona drops to third position with three points, surpassed by both Eltham High and Jamaica College who now hold four points each. The final group stage matches on Wednesday will see a decisive confrontation between JC and Mona, while Eltham faces already-eliminated St Jago High.

    Elsewhere in the competition, former champions St George’s College and Wolmer’s Boys suffered elimination defeats. St George’s fell 1-3 to Vauxhall High in Group 3, while Wolmer’s were stunned 0-2 by Tivoli Gardens in Group 1.

    In contrasting fortunes, defending champions Kingston College revived their title defense with a commanding 3-0 victory over Campion College. Deshawn Byfield emerged as the hero, securing a hat-trick that brings his seasonal tally to 18 goals. The achievement triggers a $50,000 KFC donation to KC and $10,000 in products for Byfield himself as part of the chain’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

    The group stage concludes on Wednesday with several quarterfinal berths still hanging in the balance, setting the stage for a dramatic finale to the preliminary rounds.