KINGSTON, Jamaica — Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw, the captain of Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz, has been nominated for the prestigious Marta Award for her exceptional goal in Manchester City’s 2-1 victory over Hammarby in the UEFA Women’s Champions League on November 21, 2024. Shaw’s remarkable performance included two goals, one of which has been recognized as a contender for the award celebrating the most aesthetically significant goal of the year. The match was marred by an incident where Shaw appeared to be struck by an object, prompting UEFA to launch an investigation. Her nominated goal showcased her technical brilliance as she received a pass just outside the penalty area, skillfully evaded two defenders, and fired a powerful shot into the top corner of the net. The Marta Award, established in 2024, honors Brazilian football legend Marta, widely regarded as the greatest female player of all time. Shaw, 28, is Jamaica’s all-time leading scorer across both male and female categories with 57 goals and Manchester City’s top scorer with 67 goals. The award’s nominees include other standout players such as Jordyn Bugg, Mariona Caldentey, and Marta herself, who was nominated for the inaugural award. Meanwhile, the male equivalent, the Puskas Award, also announced its 11 nominees, featuring players like Declan Rice and Lamine Yamal. The winners will be determined through a voting process.
分类： sports
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Demarai Gray returns to Reggae Boyz starting line-up for T&T clash
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost to Jamaica’s World Cup qualifying campaign, Demarai Gray has been reinstated to the Reggae Boyz starting line-up for their crucial Concacaf Group B clash against Trinidad and Tobago. The match, scheduled for Thursday at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain, marks the second-to-last game in the qualifying series for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Gray, who recently rejoined English club Birmingham City after a two-year stint with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq, had been sidelined for Jamaica’s last two matches due to injury. His return is expected to add firepower to the team’s attack. Joining Gray in the starting XI are Mason Holgate, Jonathon Russell, and Rumarn Burrell, all of whom are making their way back into the squad. Team captain Andre Blake continues to guard the goal, supported by defenders Ethan Pinnock, Richard King, and Greg Leigh. Jamaica currently leads Group B with nine points from four games, closely followed by Curacao, who trail by a single point. Trinidad and Tobago, sitting third with five points, will be looking to close the gap. Jamaica previously defeated Trinidad and Tobago 2-0 in their first-round encounter on September 9th, with goals from Bailey Cadamarteri and Jonathon Russell. Historically, Jamaica has also triumphed in Port of Spain, securing a 2-1 victory in a World Cup qualifier on June 20th, 2001, thanks to goals from Onandi Lowe and Deon Burton. The match is set to kick off at 7:00 pm Jamaica time, with the Reggae Boyz aiming to solidify their position at the top of the group.
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Jamaica and Trinidad tied at half time
In a tightly contested match at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain on Thursday, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago played out a goalless draw in their Concacaf final round Group B qualifying round second leg. The first half was marked by intense defensive efforts from both sides, with neither team able to dominate for extended periods. Jamaica, now second in the live points table with 10 points, trails Curacao, who led Bermuda 2-0 at halftime. The Reggae Boyz faced an early setback when central defender Richard King was forced off due to injury in the 30th minute, replaced by Damion Lowe. Despite a disallowed goal by Jonathan Russell in the 39th minute due to a marginal offside call, Jamaica continued to press. Levi Garcia narrowly missed a scoring opportunity in the 25th minute, while goalkeeper Andre Blake made a crucial save in the 35th minute to deny Tyrese Spicer. The match remained deadlocked, reflecting the evenly matched prowess of both teams.
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GFA launches Player Identification drive for Talent Development Scheme
The Grenada Football Association (GFA) has announced the launch of a comprehensive Player Identification initiative as a pivotal element of its Talent Development Scheme (TDS). This strategic programme aims to systematically scout and identify the most promising young male footballers across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, ensuring the sustained growth of future youth national teams. The initiative will initially focus on boys born in 2012 and 2013, targeting aspiring athletes at a formative stage of their development. The primary goals of this rigorous evaluation process are to uncover emerging talent and foster high-quality player development. Successful candidates will be integrated into the GFA TDS programme, which offers structured pathways for progression into youth national teams and opportunities for educational scholarships and professional football careers. A GFA spokesperson emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, ‘This systematic identification drive is a crucial investment in the future of Grenadian football. By focusing on early talent recognition and providing structured development within the TDS framework, we are building a sustainable pipeline of players capable of excelling on regional and international stages.’ The GFA has urged parents, guardians, and youth coaches to prepare eligible players for the upcoming scouting events across the tri-island state. Further details regarding screening dates and locations will be announced soon through official GFA channels.
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Renderings Released for New UWI Five Islands Campus Sports Complex
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus has recently unveiled the highly anticipated architectural renderings for its new state-of-the-art sports complex. This ambitious project, designed to elevate the university’s athletic and recreational facilities, promises to become a landmark for sports enthusiasts and students alike. The complex will feature cutting-edge amenities, including a modern track and field stadium, multi-purpose courts, a fully equipped gymnasium, and dedicated spaces for sports science and wellness programs. The design emphasizes sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems. The project is part of UWI’s broader initiative to foster holistic development and promote a culture of excellence in sports. Construction is slated to begin in the coming months, with completion expected within two years. The new sports complex is poised to enhance the campus experience, attract top-tier athletes, and serve as a hub for regional sporting events.
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Antigua and Barbuda Names Senior Men’s Squad for 2025 CONCACAF Series
The Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) has officially revealed its senior men’s national team roster for the highly anticipated 2025 CONCACAF Series. The squad is set to engage in two preparatory friendly matches at the iconic Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in St. John’s, Antigua. The first match will pit the team against Aruba on November 12th at 7:00 PM, followed by a clash with Guyana on November 18th at the same time. The announcement underscores the ABFA’s commitment to showcasing local talent on the international stage. The selected players represent a mix of domestic and international clubs, highlighting the depth and diversity of Antigua and Barbuda’s football talent. The goalkeeping trio includes Shahoi Dorsette (C.F. Lorca Deportiva), Zaieem Scott (Future Pro Academy), and Jayden Martin (All Saints United). The defensive lineup features Zafique Joseph, Leroy Graham, Kylano Isaac, Jazhiono O’Garro, Tyrik Hughes, and Amir Delay. Midfielders Sean Tomlinson, TJ Bramble, Shalon Knight, Quinton Griffith, Dannen Francis, and Dion Pereira bring both experience and versatility. The forward line is led by Raheem Deterville, Darryl Massicott, Karique Knight, D’Andre Bishop, and Josue “Neymar” Arias. The management team, under the leadership of Manager Janiel Simon and Head Coach Jacques Passy, is poised to guide the squad through these crucial matches. Assistant Coaches Shyan Jeffers, Lenny Hewlett, and Eduardo Suarez, along with Goalkeeper Coach Juan Lecona Nava, Physio McClean Lawrence, and Equipment Manager Danny Benjamin, complete the robust support staff. These friendlies are expected to serve as a litmus test for the team’s readiness ahead of the CONCACAF Series, offering fans a glimpse of the nation’s footballing potential.
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Minister Duggins applauds National Swim Team for record eight medal haul at OECS Championships
The Saint Kitts and Nevis National Swim Team has returned home to a hero’s welcome after securing a historic eight medals at the 33rd OECS Swimming Championships in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Minister of Sports, the Honourable Samal Duggins, led the celebrations at the R. L. Bradshaw International Airport, where the 14-member team was greeted by government officials, proud parents, and representatives from the National Olympic Committee. The team’s performance marked a significant improvement from their single-medal achievement in 2024, showcasing their growing prowess in the sport. Among the standout athletes were Teadrian Tross, who clinched Gold in the 50-metre Breaststroke, Silver in the 100-metre and 200-metre Freestyle, and Bronze in the 100-metre Individual Medley. Edith Denne also shone brightly, securing Gold in the 100-metre Freestyle and Silver in the 100-metre Individual Medley. Skyla Connor and Jennifer Harding-Martin added to the medal tally with Bronze in the 400-metre Freestyle and 100-metre Backstroke, respectively. Minister Duggins highlighted the team’s achievements as a source of national pride, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting the sport. Plans are underway to designate land for a state-of-the-art swimming facility, which is expected to further enhance the team’s training capabilities. The minister expressed optimism that this investment would lead to even greater success in future competitions. The event concluded with three cheers for the athletes, who were hailed as ambassadors for Saint Kitts and Nevis.
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National Primary Schools Football Tournament Quarter Finals 13 November
The Grenada Football Association (GFA) has unveiled the official schedule for the quarter-final round of the National Primary Schools Football Tournament, set to commence on Thursday, 13 November. The matches will be held across three venues in Grenada and Carriacou, showcasing the nation’s budding football talent. The official draw, conducted at the GFA Secretariat, has finalized the eagerly awaited matchups. The quarter-final fixtures include Our Lady of the Rosary (Carriacou) versus St Peter’s Roman Catholic at Lauriston Mini Stadium at 1 pm, South St George Government against St David’s Roman Catholic at Springs Playing Field at 11 am, and St Andrews facing Bonair Government at Progress Park at 11 am. St Patrick’s Anglican has received a bye and will advance directly to the Semi-Final round, where they will compete against the winner of the Our Lady of the Rosary and St Peter’s RC match. Ernest Richardson, Second Vice-President of the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT), attended the draw and expressed his support for the young athletes and the tournament. The GFA is urging the public and media to attend and cheer on the future stars of Grenadian football. For additional details, contact the GFA Secretariat.
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Piton Boyz in DR for Concacaf’s Friendly Series
The Saint Lucia senior national men’s football team, affectionately known as the Piton Boyz, is gearing up for two crucial matches in the Concacaf Friendly Series. On Wednesday, November 12, they will face Cuba, followed by a clash with St Vincent & the Grenadines three days later. Both games are scheduled to take place at the Cibao Stadium in Santiago, Dominican Republic. This series serves as a vital platform for teams already eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers to maintain competitive momentum. The Piton Boyz departed Saint Lucia on Monday with a significantly altered squad compared to their last outing during the World Cup Qualifiers in June, where they suffered a loss to Curaçao but secured a victory against Barbados. Notable absentees include Jamaica-based players Alvinus Mayers and Darren Donaie, as well as England-based captain Terell Thomas and winger Arkell Jude Boyd. Other omissions include Kegan Caull, Ryan Charles, Ryan Remi, and Troy Greenidge. However, the team welcomes back several familiar faces, including goalkeeper Anton Richard, defender Doneal Lionel, and midfielders Brandon Sandiford and Eymani Butcher. Veterans Gregson President and Ridel Stanislas also make a return, alongside new additions like Ajani Louis, Dervaj Edward, Elijah Joseph, and Trent Alexander. Retained from the previous squad are forwards Aaron Richard, Caniggia Elva, Donavan Jn Baptiste, Saviola Elva, and Mervin St Romain. Midfield responsibilities will be shouldered by Bayan Aman, Hamaiael Charlery, and Shaquan Nelson, while the defense will feature Melvin Doxilly, Joshua Solomon-Davies, and veteran fullback Kurt Frederick. The team’s technical and support staff, led by head coach Stern John, remain unchanged. The Piton Boyz are also set to face Martinique and the Dominican Republic next year as part of Group A in the Concacaf Friendly Series.
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Team Grenada regains OECS Swim Championship title
In a remarkable display of athletic prowess, the Grenada National Swim Team has reclaimed the OECS Swimming Championship, dethroning the previous title holder, Antigua & Barbuda. This victory marks Grenada’s first championship win since 2019, following a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The competition, held at the Shrewsbury Aquatic Centre in St. Vincent from November 7 to 9, saw Grenada dominate with an impressive haul of 84 medals and a total of 1,263.50 points. St. Lucia secured second place with 1,239 points, while Antigua & Barbuda trailed with 1,117 points. Other participants included St. Kitts & Nevis (160 points), Dominica (72 points), and Anguilla (8 points).
Grenada’s success extended beyond the overall championship, as the team also clinched five age group titles. Notable winners included Brianne De Roche (8 and under girls), Mateo Thomas (9 to 10 boys), Kristin Gresham (13 to 14 girls), Jacob Collymore (13 to 14 boys), and Zackary Gresham (18 and over males). Additionally, the team secured three third-place finishes by Sydney Joseph (8 and under girls), Ethan Chu Fook (11 to 12 boys), and Anaika Otway (18 and over females).
The team returned to Grenada on Sunday evening to a warm reception filled with jubilation and pride from parents and supporters. The Grenada Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) expressed immense pride in the swimmers, commending their dedication and outstanding performances. GASA also acknowledged the Government of Grenada for its unwavering support, alongside contributions from corporate partners such as the Investment Migration Agency, Go Mobility, Pure Sports Grenada, and Geo F Huggins. The association extended heartfelt gratitude to parents and well-wishers, whose encouragement played a pivotal role in the team’s success.