John Procope, a 49-year-old endurance swimmer, was forced to abandon his ambitious 100-kilometer swim around Tobago after battling strong currents for 33 hours. The swim, which began on October 13 at Pigeon Point, saw Procope accompanied by a support team, including a boat named Predator, a kayak, and fellow swimmers Richard Conybear, Jacob Cox, and William Carr. Despite completing approximately 68% of the journey, Procope and his team had to halt the mission off the coast of Delaford due to relentless currents that stalled his progress for extended periods. Procope expressed no regrets, stating he felt physically, mentally, and emotionally strong throughout the attempt. He has already set his sights on a second attempt, tentatively planned for September next year, citing calmer waters during that period as ideal for such a challenge. Procope’s swim aimed to raise awareness for marine conservation organizations SpeSeas and The Aqua-Smart Foundation. This is not his first major swimming feat; in October 2024, he successfully swam from Tobago to Trinidad after two previous failed attempts. Procope’s resilience and determination continue to inspire, as he remains undeterred by setbacks and committed to pushing his limits.
分类： sports
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Hillview stretch perfect run in east zone of SSFL championship division
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) championship division is witnessing a thrilling battle as teams across five districts vie for a spot in the prestigious Big 5 playoffs. Scheduled for October 17, the upcoming matches will determine which schools advance to the promotional tournament, with the top three teams earning a place in the premier division next season. Hillview College and Speyside Secondary have emerged as dominant forces in the east and Tobago zones, respectively, while the central, north, and south zones remain fiercely contested. Hillview, boasting a perfect record with 21 points, recently demolished Holy Cross 9-0, with Jahmarley Ellis scoring a hat-trick. In the north zone, Mucurapo West and East Mucurapo are locked in a tight race, separated by just one point. The south zone sees Palo Seco Secondary leading by a narrow margin, while Presentation College Chaguanas tops the central zone on goal difference. Speyside, with an eight-point lead in Tobago, is poised to secure their Big 5 spot. As the competition intensifies, every match becomes crucial for teams aiming to make their mark in the SSFL.
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Grassroots cricket takes centre stage — First-ever U13 tournament launched
The Saint Lucia National Cricket Association (SLNCA), in collaboration with the Laborie Credit Union, has unveiled a pioneering initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of cricketers. The SLNCA/Laborie Credit Union Under-13 Grassroots Tournament, a first-of-its-kind event, will bring together young athletes from 16 districts across the island for weekend softball cricket matches. This program emphasizes inclusivity, featuring both boys and girls, and aims to foster a robust cricket culture from the ground up. The tournament officially launched on October 14, with senior district teams providing mentorship and support to the young participants. Nerville Florence, SLNCA’s second vice president and head of youth cricket, highlighted that grassroots development remains the association’s top priority. He emphasized the extensive planning and dedication behind the initiative, calling it the ‘baby of the SLNCA.’ SLNCA President Wayne Auguste, who conceptualized the tournament, shared his personal connection to grassroots cricket, citing its transformative impact on his life and that of his son, Ackeem Auguste, a recent West Indies senior team selection. Auguste stressed the importance of engaging young talent early, stating that a strong grassroots system is vital for the sport’s future. The Laborie Cooperative Credit Union, the tournament’s title sponsor, reaffirmed its commitment to cricket development and community unity. President Augustin Dominique expressed pride in supporting a program that not only develops athletic talent but also strengthens communal bonds. The tournament is set to commence on October 18, with communities encouraged to rally behind their budding cricket stars.
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West Indies show grit in defeat, says Captain Chase
West Indies Test captain Roston Chase has lauded his team for their valiant effort in the second Test against India, even though they suffered a defeat and lost the two-match series. The regional team managed to extend the game into the fifth day before India secured a seven-wicket victory on Tuesday, completing a 2-0 series sweep. Despite a dismal first innings that forced the West Indies to follow on, opener John Campbell notched his maiden Test century, and Shai Hope ended an eight-year wait for a Test hundred, propelling the team to a commendable 390 in their second innings. Although this marked the Windies’ sixth loss in seven Test matches this year, Chase expressed optimism about the team’s fighting spirit, especially after their innings and 140-run defeat in the first Test. ‘This is the kind of fight I wanted to see from us. It’s a stepping stone and a building block for us to improve as a Test-playing nation,’ Chase stated during a post-match press conference. He emphasized the importance of maintaining this positive momentum, even in defeat, to extract valuable lessons from each game. However, Chase acknowledged that the team’s batting remains a critical area for improvement. ‘Our batting has let us down in the last two series. We have a strong bowling attack despite injuries, but we need to post better first-innings totals to compete in the Test Championship,’ he added. Looking ahead, Chase believes that facing top-tier teams like Australia and India provides essential preparation for upcoming series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan in 2026. ‘These tough matches are part of our growth. If we learn from these experiences, we can be more competitive against teams closer to our ranking,’ he concluded.
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Column: Plaatsing nog mogelijk!
Suriname has emerged as a strong contender in the latest FIFA window, securing two draws and now sharing the top spot with Panama due to a superior goal difference. Despite Natio’s commendable performances, the team managed to secure only two points from these matches. While Suriname can take pride in these results, especially considering the numerous opportunities their opponents had in the away game, it is evident that the attack line requires reinforcement. Had Natio capitalized on their chances in the home game, they could have clinched a victory. The match against Panama was a different story, where Suriname could have easily faced defeat if their opponents had converted their opportunities. This underscores the urgent need for the management to recruit prolific strikers to ensure that created chances are effectively converted into goals. It is rare for teams to capitalize on every opportunity, but it is equally uncommon to squander as many chances as Suriname did. While preventing the opponent from scoring is not always possible, it is crucial to ensure that more goals are scored when opportunities arise. This is the key to securing three points, which is ultimately what matters. Unfortunately, goal-scoring remains a challenge even for professional teams. If Suriname aims to qualify for the World Cup, the attack line must perform better, as no matter how cohesive the teamwork is, without goals, victories cannot be achieved. With two matches remaining, Suriname still has a chance to qualify for the World Cup. However, converting these matches into wins and scoring more goals is crucial, especially since Panama has the same number of points, and goal difference could be decisive. In top-tier sports, there is no room for complacency or what is locally referred to as ‘tjepotie.’ Players are recruited to perform specific roles, and if they repeatedly fail to deliver, they must make way for others who are in better form. Natio is now stronger than ever, and opponents are aware of this, as evidenced by the tactics employed to negatively impact the team’s performance, such as loud music played near the hotel at night or discriminatory actions. It is high time that Natio’s growth is reflected in the final standings, as the points are essential for qualification. Lessons must be learned from the mistakes made in the last two matches without assigning blame. The limited points earned are a collective responsibility and must be addressed as such. Playing World Cup qualifiers is a new experience for all involved, and mistakes are inevitable. The key is to learn from these mistakes and find solutions collectively. In the final phase of the group matches, Natio can no longer afford any missteps. The focus must remain unwavering: World Cup participation. Qualification is still within reach!
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GFA President appointed to FIFA Technical Development Committee
Marlon Glean, President of the Grenada Football Association (GFA), has been appointed to the FIFA Technical Development Committee for the 2025–2029 term. This decision, ratified by the FIFA Council in October 2025, underscores Glean’s exceptional contributions to international football governance and highlights Grenada’s growing prominence in the global football arena. The appointment aligns with FIFA’s statutes and governance regulations, further solidifying Glean’s role as a leading advocate for football reform, innovation, and equitable development, particularly in resource-limited yet talent-rich regions like the Caribbean. Glean also serves on Concacaf’s Football Development Committee, where he influences regional strategies for advancing the sport across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
In a statement, Glean expressed his honor in assuming this responsibility, emphasizing the committee’s pivotal role in shaping global football development strategies. He pledged to ensure that the perspectives and aspirations of smaller nations, including Grenada, are prominently represented in these discussions.
Glean’s appointment is a significant milestone for Grenada and the Caribbean region. The FIFA Technical Development Committee plays a crucial role in guiding the evolution of football through training methodologies, grassroots initiatives, elite youth development, and coaching education. Glean’s involvement will create a direct link between Grenada’s football ecosystem and FIFA’s strategic frameworks, ensuring the nation’s visibility and influence in global technical development decisions.
This development not only elevates Grenada’s credibility on the international football stage but also aligns with the GFA’s broader objectives. These include expanding grassroots programs, accelerating the growth of women’s football, enhancing technical capacity in coaching and officiating, and unlocking investments in local infrastructure and talent.
Glean’s appointment coincides with his increasing presence on the global football development circuit. He has recently participated in the World Football Summit in Hong Kong and is scheduled to speak at Soccerex Miami, the Africa Football Business Summit in Kenya, and the Sports Investment Forum in Saudi Arabia in May 2026. These engagements position Grenada as a thought leader in advocating for resilience, equity, and innovation in football’s future.
Glean, a former national team player, legal professional, and international development executive, brings over two decades of expertise in sports law, compliance, and governance to the committee. Prior to his GFA presidency, he served as FIFA’s Regional Development Manager for the Caribbean, overseeing football development in 22 nations.
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SQUAD GOALS
Jamaica’s national senior men’s football team, the Reggae Boyz, are on the brink of securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a series of impressive performances in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers. Head Coach Steve McClaren expressed his confidence in the squad, which he believes has finally come together as a cohesive unit. The team currently leads Group B after a commanding 4-0 victory over Bermuda and a favorable 1-1 draw between Curacao and Trinidad and Tobago. This puts Jamaica in a strong position with nine points, ahead of Curacao with eight, Trinidad with five, and Bermuda at the bottom with zero points. McClaren highlighted the impact of key players such as Bobby Reid, Shamar Nicholson, and Dujuan Richards, who all contributed to the win against Bermuda. The return of midfielders Isaac Hayden and Kasey Palmer, who missed the previous game due to suspension, was also pivotal. McClaren praised their performances, particularly Palmer’s work rate and Hayden’s stability in the midfield. Since taking charge in July 2024, McClaren has made several adjustments to the squad, with 11 new players compared to the team from a year ago. He emphasized the importance of trust and competition within the squad, which has seen significant improvement over the past year. With two crucial matches remaining—against Trinidad on November 13 and Curacao on November 18—McClaren remains cautious but optimistic. He stressed the need for players to stay fit and healthy, as the team aims to secure their place in the World Cup. The overseas contingent of the Reggae Boyz and technical staff departed Jamaica on Wednesday and are expected to return to Kingston on November 10, ready for the final push towards qualification.
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Strong currents stop John Procope from completing 100K swim around Tobago
John Procope’s ambitious attempt to swim 100 kilometers around Tobago was halted due to relentless ocean currents, forcing him to abandon the challenge after 33 grueling hours. The swimmer began his journey on the morning of October 13 at Crown Point, supported by a team that included a small boat stocked with supplies and a kayak for companionship. Swimmers Jacob Cox and William Carr also joined him for part of the route. Despite completing approximately 68% of the distance, Procope and his team were compelled to cease their efforts near Speyside due to the overwhelming strength of the currents. Upon returning to shore on the evening of October 14, Procope’s Facebook page confirmed the decision, emphasizing that safety was the top priority. ‘Couldn’t beat very strong current just past Speyside…took over an hour and still in pretty much the same place. Fatigued. Had to abort,’ the post read. In a follow-up video, Procope expressed gratitude to his supporters. The first half of the swim, in the calmer Caribbean Sea, went smoothly, but the Atlantic Ocean’s unpredictable currents proved insurmountable. This marks another chapter in Procope’s history of endurance swimming, following his successful 25-hour swim from Tobago to Trinidad in October 2024.
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Boyd and Aidonia added to Bell/Zaide football festival
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The 40th edition of the Bell/Zaide Memorial Football Festival is set to take place on Heroes Day, Monday, October 20, at Winchester Park. This year’s event will feature notable participants, including former national football player Walter Boyd and renowned entertainer Aidonia. Both confirmed their involvement after being approached by organizer Clive ‘Busy’ Campbell during the Reggae Boyz match against Bermuda. The festival, which supports various charitable causes, may mark its final iteration due to rising venue and security costs. Campbell expressed his intention to collaborate with the Kingston and St Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) to preserve the legacy of the event and its honourees. He emphasized his commitment to aiding basic schools, stating, ‘In life, everybody needs help sometimes.’ The festival commemorates Jackie Bell and Dennis Ziadie, two Jamaican football legends who tragically passed away during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. This year’s honourees include Douglas Bell, Andrew Price, Neville Granville, Karl Tyrell, and Ronald Watson. Four teams will compete: Masters and Celebrities, Christian Ambassadors, St George’s Old Boys, and Referees XI. The Masters and Celebrities team will feature Laa Lee, Jahshii, Nesbeth, Boyd, and Aidonia, while the Referees XI will include Karl Tyrell, Oshane Nation, Carvel Banton, Alexi Perry, and Jassett Kerr.
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Football gods against TT: Yorke rues chance to get crucial W/Cup qualifying win
In a crucial FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match, the Trinidad and Tobago (TT) men’s football team managed a 1-1 draw against Curacao on October 14 at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad. Despite a spirited performance, the result left TT in third place in Group B with just two matches remaining, while Curacao moved to second. Jamaica, with a commanding 4-0 victory over Bermuda, reclaimed the group’s top spot.