In a tightly contested match on November 10, Naparima College secured a crucial 1-0 victory over St Mary’s College on Serpentine Road, St Clair, reclaiming the top spot in the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division. With this win, Naparima now holds 34 points, narrowly surpassing St Benedict’s College, who trail by a single point. The decisive moment came in the 40th minute when national under-17 wing back Jayden Caprietta headed in from a right-side corner, marking the only goal of the game. Despite a lackluster performance, Naparima managed to control the match, fending off St Mary’s sporadic attempts, including a close-range shot by Jaylon Roberts in the 80th minute that narrowly missed the target. The victory positions Naparima favorably with just one game remaining in the season. Meanwhile, Signal Hill Secondary, currently sixth with 22 points, remains a dark horse with five games left, including a pivotal clash against Naparima later this month. In other matches, Arima North Secondary climbed to seventh place after a dominant 3-0 win over Carapichaima East, while St Augustine Secondary moved out of the relegation zone with a 2-0 victory against St Anthony’s. The SSFL season is nearing its climax, with the top five teams separated by just five points and the relegation battle intensifying.
分类： sports
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More first-class cricket necessary
The West Indies cricket team’s recent performance in the T20 series against New Zealand has brought to light significant challenges in their batting strategy. Despite moments of brilliance, such as Romario Shepherd’s commendable bowling efforts, the team’s inability to build a solid foundation has been a recurring issue. Shepherd, reflecting on the second T20 match, acknowledged the need for better planning and execution in setting up the innings. He emphasized the importance of being alert on every ball, given the small boundaries and high-scoring nature of modern T20 cricket. However, the third game saw the West Indies fall short by nine runs, with New Zealand taking a 2-1 lead in the series. This loss underscored the team’s over-reliance on the lower order to post competitive totals. The root of this problem lies in the lack of first-class cricket and two-inning matches in the West Indies, which are crucial for developing batsmen capable of excelling in all formats. The financial responsibility for organizing such tournaments falls on Cricket West Indies (CWI), highlighting the need for structural reforms to nurture future talent.
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Trinidad and Tobago’s Kobi Henry: We must set tone vs Reggae Boyz
Trinidad and Tobago’s central defender Kobi Henry has called on his teammates to adopt an aggressive approach from the outset in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Jamaica. The crucial match is scheduled for November 13 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. Henry emphasized the importance of setting the tone early rather than waiting to fall behind, a pattern that has plagued TT in previous games. With TT needing two consecutive victories against Jamaica and Bermuda to keep their World Cup hopes alive, the stakes are incredibly high. Currently, TT sits third in Concacaf Group B with five points, trailing Jamaica (nine points) and Curacao (eight points). Only the group winner secures direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, while the runner-up enters the intercontinental playoffs. Head coach Dwight Yorke announced a 26-man squad on November 10, including newcomer Roald Mitchell, a striker who has impressed in the US league. Henry highlighted the significance of home support, urging fans to rally behind the team. Despite the absence of injured regular starter Rio Cardines, utility player Noah Powder expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and determination. The team remains optimistic, with Henry noting high morale and a collective focus on seizing this historic opportunity.
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Antigua and Barbuda Dominate Caribbean Arm Wrestling Clash
Antigua and Barbuda showcased their arm wrestling prowess on Saturday night, securing a resounding victory in the Clash of the Caribbean Arm Wrestling Series held at The People’s Place in St John’s. The home team triumphed in seven out of ten matches, leaving their Trinidadian competitors in the dust. The event kicked off with a stellar performance by Omarion Boyle and Omarie Laird, who both achieved flawless 3–0 victories. Nivron Browne, Nickson Grove, Daniel Antonio, and Joshua Rabess further cemented Antigua’s dominance with commanding wins. Despite the overwhelming performance by the hosts, Trinidad managed to claim three victories, thanks to Muhammad Ibrahim, Navardo Wallace-Gill, and Jesiah Bartholomew. The event not only highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s growing strength in regional arm wrestling but also underscored the sport’s increasing popularity across the Caribbean. The enthusiastic crowd added to the electric atmosphere, making it a night to remember for arm wrestling enthusiasts.
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Future Pro Congratulates Kylano and Zaieem on Antigua and Barbuda National Team Call-Up
Future Pro has extended its heartfelt congratulations to two of its standout international players, Kylano and Zaieem, for earning a coveted spot on the Antigua and Barbuda Senior Men’s National Football Team. The club proudly announced that the dynamic duo will represent their nation in the upcoming international matches against Aruba and Guyana during the FIFA international break. Expressing immense pride in their accomplishment, Future Pro emphasized its unwavering support for the players as they embark on this significant milestone. The club conveyed its best wishes for success as Kylano and Zaieem prepare to showcase their skills on the global stage, representing their country with honor and determination.
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Antigua & Barbuda Swimmers Deliver Strong Performances at OECS Championships
The 33rd OECS Swimming Championships have witnessed remarkable achievements from Team Antigua & Barbuda, as they continue to make waves in the competition. With multiple medals and record-breaking swims, the team has secured fourth place in the standings, showcasing their resilience and national pride. Despite facing challenges, including swimmers competing while unwell, Antigua & Barbuda has demonstrated exceptional determination. As of the second day, the team has amassed 732 points, trailing behind Grenada (836), St. Lucia (803), and St. Vincent (747.5).
Ethan Stubbs-Greene and Jadon Wuilliez emerged as standout performers, setting new OECS records. Stubbs-Greene shattered the 200-metre freestyle record with a time of 1:51.24, while Wuilliez achieved dual records in the 50-metre breaststroke (27.89) and 50-metre freestyle. Wuilliez also clinched silver in the 200-metre freestyle (1:56.27), with teammate Stefano Mitchell securing bronze (1:56.37).
The young swimmers of Antigua & Barbuda also made their mark, with nine-year-old Isabel Nicholas claiming gold in both the 200-metre freestyle (2:29.34) and 50-metre backstroke (37.14). Charlotte Gold and Anna Sukumaran joined her on the podium, earning silver and bronze in the 200-metre freestyle, respectively. Among the boys, Akasion Shepard took bronze in the 8-and-under 25-metre backstroke (21.56), while Alessandro Bazzoni earned silver in the 11–12 100-metre backstroke (1:09.51).
In the Development Pathway Division, 13-year-old Anya DeGannes secured silver in the 13–14 100-metre backstroke (1:11.54), adding to her earlier gold medals in the 200-metre freestyle and 100-metre butterfly. Team officials lauded the swimmers’ perseverance, highlighting their ability to achieve personal bests despite illness. Coaches emphasized the performances as a testament to the nation’s growing talent pool across age groups.
The OECS Championships continue through the weekend, with Team Antigua & Barbuda aiming to build on their momentum in the final sessions.
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Rahkeem Cornwall Steps Down as Hurricanes Captain
In a significant development for Caribbean cricket, Antiguan all-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall has announced his resignation as captain of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes. The decision comes just ahead of the highly anticipated CG United Super50 Cup, set to commence in Trinidad on November 19. Cornwall, who also captains the Antigua and Barbuda Master Blasters, revealed that his choice followed the conclusion of the recent LICB Mixed Tournament in St. Kitts, where his team secured a commendable second-place finish.
Cornwall, 31, emphasized that stepping down from the leadership role was a strategic move to focus on his personal performance. “I believe the team needs a fresh perspective and someone else to take up the mantle,” he stated. “I’ll continue to play, but my priority now is to enjoy my cricket without the added responsibilities of captaincy.”
The seasoned cricketer admitted that the dual pressures of leadership and performance had taken a toll on his form in recent years. “Captaining the team and ensuring the well-being of other players often overshadowed my own game,” he confessed. “It’s time for me to rediscover the joy of playing cricket.”
Despite relinquishing the captaincy, Cornwall expressed unwavering commitment to the Hurricanes and praised the young talents who showcased their potential during the recent tournament. “I’m proud of the emerging players and their contributions. The future looks bright for the team,” he added.
West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph is widely expected to take over the captaincy as the Hurricanes gear up for the Super50 Cup. Cornwall’s decision marks a new chapter for both the player and the team, as they aim for success in the upcoming tournament.
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NYC-based road runner Fevrier aims to make history for Saint Lucia
The New York City Marathon, one of the world’s premier running events, continues to draw athletes from across the globe, including a growing contingent from Saint Lucia. Among them is Ava Fevrier, a 41-year-old social work supervisor and mother, who has emerged as a trailblazer for her nation. Fevrier, who set a Saint Lucian national record earlier this year, is now on the verge of earning the prestigious Six Star Medal, awarded to runners who complete all six World Marathon Majors. Alongside her compatriot Che Odlum-de Vivenot, Fevrier is inspiring a new generation of Saint Lucian athletes.
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International coaches back Ackeem Auguste for big things
At just 22 years old, Ackeem Auguste, a promising left-handed batsman from Saint Lucia, is making waves in international cricket. Despite having only a few senior international matches under his belt, Auguste has already showcased his potential with an impressive T20 International average of 41. He made his T20I debut in September against Nepal, a series the West Indies unfortunately lost. However, he quickly bounced back, scoring his first fifty in One Day Internationals against Bangladesh. Although the West Indies lost the ODI series, they dominated the T20I contests, sweeping all three matches. Auguste, an alumnus of St. Mary’s College, is the fourth West Indies men’s player from Saint Lucia and the 104th to represent the team in T20s. Reflecting on his journey, Auguste expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to transition from Under-19 to senior cricket, calling it an honor to represent the West Indies. His childhood dream of playing for the West Indies has now become a reality, and he is determined to make a lasting impact. Auguste’s rise has not gone unnoticed. Former West Indies Under-19 captain and current West Indies Academy coach Ramesh Subasinghe praised his relentless work ethic and mindset, predicting a bright future for the young cricketer. Similarly, Toby Radford, former director of the West Indies High Performance Centre, commended Auguste’s coachability and technical improvements, attributing his success to a combination of talent and hard work. Auguste’s recent confirmation to join the MI Emirates for the 2025 DP World ILT20 further underscores his growing reputation in the cricketing world. As he prepares to take on new challenges, Auguste remains focused on honing his skills and achieving greatness on the international stage.
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Call for stronger coaching, more participation in school sports
The first term of school sports in St. Lucia is nearing its conclusion, with competitions wrapping up in team sports by the second week of November, well ahead of end-of-term exams. However, the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports (MYDS) is grappling with challenges in raising participation levels, coaching consistency, and overall standards. Despite these hurdles, school sports coordinator Isabel Alexander-Marquis expressed satisfaction with the term’s activities, particularly highlighting the smooth scheduling of basketball and netball tournaments at the Beausejour Indoor Facility, which remained unaffected by adverse weather conditions. Nevertheless, participation rates have been a persistent issue, with only about half of the island’s 24 secondary schools involved in netball and basketball. Football, on the other hand, has seen stronger engagement, with 19 teams in the Under-16 boys’ competition and 21 in the Under-19 boys’ tournament. Alexander-Marquis attributed the low participation to staffing gaps, including a lack of dedicated coaches and limited teacher availability. She also noted that some educators may lack confidence in coaching sports, while physical education teachers often juggle multiple responsibilities. Netball coordinator Shem Maxwell echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for more schools to participate and for additional coaching support. Financial constraints and waning volunteerism have further exacerbated the staffing shortage, particularly with rising temperatures discouraging outdoor activities. Despite these challenges, both Maxwell and Alexander-Marquis observed improvements in the quality of play this year, with more competitive games and consistent progression from younger age groups to varsity levels. Alexander-Marquis urged schools to establish alumni organizations and seek support from graduates to enhance coaching, transportation, and nutrition, which could significantly boost the success of school-level and national sports programmes.