Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • TITANS COLLIDE!

    TITANS COLLIDE!

    The National Stadium prepares for an epic confrontation as Jamaica College (JC) and Excelsior High face off in the ISSA Manning Cup final, determining the ultimate champion of urban schoolboy football. This championship match represents not just athletic competition but a clash of institutional legacies and aspirations.

    Symbolically, the final embodies a mythological battle between JC’s Griffin—a legendary creature combining lion’s body with eagle’s head and wings—and Excelsior’s conventional eagle. While mythology might favor the hybrid beast, victory will ultimately be decided on the pitch through skill, strategy, and determination.

    Jamaica College, established in 1795, stands as the tournament’s most decorated institution with 28 Manning Cup titles. Their quest for a record-extending 29th championship traces back to the competition’s 1914 inception. Historical records indicate JC’s early dominance, having secured the Sydney Olivier Inter Scholastic Challenge Trophy in 1909, 1910, and 1913 before the Manning Cup era began.

    The current JC squad represents a footballing juggernaut, characterized by exceptional balance and coordination. Key players including Jabarie Howell (considered among schoolboy football’s elite), Donald Stewart (a defensive stalwart following his father’s legacy), and Devonte Allen form what appears an impregnable unit. Despite earlier second-round inconsistencies with draws against Mona High and Eltham High, JC demonstrated overwhelming dominance in knockout stages with decisive victories over Charlie Smith High (4-0), Hydel High (5-0), and St Andrew Technical (4-0).

    Head Coach Raymond ‘Stampy’ Watson emphasizes psychological preparedness: ‘We’re not thinking about the opponents. Let them think about us… We just believe in what we are doing.’ Watson acknowledges their previous 2-1 quarter-final victory against Excelsior holds no significance in the final context: ‘This is now where something is on the line… We know what they can do.’

    Excelsior High seeks to break a 21-year championship drought, pursuing their eighth Manning Cup since first winning in 1953. Under Head Coach Keon Broderick, the Mountain View Avenue institution reaches its first final in 19 years. Their squad features talented players hardened by recent disappointments—including losses in the 2024 Walker Cup and Under-16 finals—creating a determined group craving redemption.

    Offensive prowess centers around prolific scorer Kimarly Scott (19 goals), supported by Terrence Williams, Damarly Williams, and Kivann Salmon. Coach Broderick emphasizes strategic flexibility: ‘It’s for us to be very flexible within the game… We want to capitalize on goalscoring opportunities and limit JC’s chances.’

    The anticipated final promises compelling individual duels and tactical sophistication, representing one of the most eagerly awaited schoolboy football championships in recent memory. While Jamaica College enters as statistical favorite, Excelsior’s hunger and preparation could produce a historic upset when the whistle blows at the National Stadium.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Olympic Association Confirms New Executive at Elective Annual General Meeting

    Antigua and Barbuda Olympic Association Confirms New Executive at Elective Annual General Meeting

    The Antigua and Barbuda National Olympic Committee (ABNOC) has formally inaugurated its new executive leadership following a decisive Elective Annual General Meeting held Tuesday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium. The assembly marked a significant transition in the nation’s Olympic governance structure.

    In the only contested election of the proceedings, Mr. Thomas Greenaway emerged victorious to claim the position of 1st Vice President. All other executive appointments were confirmed without opposition, resulting in a comprehensive leadership team ready to steer the committee’s forthcoming initiatives.

    The newly ratified executive committee comprises:
    – President: Hon. E. P. Chet Greene MP
    – 1st Vice President: Mr. Thomas Greenaway
    – 2nd Vice President: Dr. Philmore Benjamin
    – 3rd Vice President: Ms. Karen Joseph
    – Treasurer: Mrs. Yolanda Samuel
    – Ordinary Members: Mr. Charles Bellot, Mr. Franklyn Braithwaite, Ms. Kebra Nanton, Mr. Leonard Mussington, Mrs. Shorna Charles-Joseph, Ms. Dionne Isaacs, and Mr. Fitzroy Quinland

    During his inaugural address, President Hon. E. P. Chet Greene expressed gratitude to member federations for their sustained trust and acknowledged the contributions of outgoing member Mr. Neil Cochrane for his dedicated service across two previous executive terms.

    President Greene articulated a clear vision for his administration, emphasizing that ABNOC has entered an ‘action mode’ phase focused on deliverable objectives, strengthened collaboration, and measurable outcomes in national sports development.

    In subsequent administrative appointments, the newly formed board confirmed Mr. Cliff Williams as Secretary General and Mr. Joel Rayne as Assistant Secretary General, ensuring organizational continuity and enhanced operational capacity.

    The committee reaffirmed its dedication to fostering productive relationships with member federations and strategic partners to advance the Olympic movement throughout Antigua and Barbuda through focused, results-oriented leadership.

  • Dorne to lead 15-man West Indies squad at Under-19 World Cup

    Dorne to lead 15-man West Indies squad at Under-19 World Cup

    Cricket West Indies has officially appointed 19-year-old Joshua Dorne to lead the West Indies Under-19 squad in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, scheduled for Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6, 2026. The announcement comes following Dorne’s successful leadership during recent series victories against Sri Lanka (4-3) and England (5-2) earlier this year.

    The 15-member squad features a blend of emerging talent and experienced youth players, including vice-captain Jonathan van Lange and Jewel Andrew, who holds the distinction of being the youngest player to represent the senior West Indies team in both T20Is and ODIs. The selection committee has also included promising newcomers Micah McKenzie and 16-year-old Shamar Apple, recognizing their potential following impressive performances in regional competitions.

    Dwain Gill, CWI’s High Performance Manager, emphasized the strategic approach behind squad selection: “This group represents the culmination of a deliberate and well-structured preparation process. We’ve closely monitored regional Under-17 and Under-19 competitions, prioritizing players with specialized skills and the adaptability required for international cricket. Our development philosophy aligns with the playing style we expect at the senior level, ensuring exposure to high-quality match opportunities while emphasizing leadership development and tactical awareness.”

    The West Indies team has been placed in Group D alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, and Tanzania, with all group stage matches scheduled at the High-Performance Oval in Windhoek, Namibia. Prior to the tournament, the squad will participate in warm-up matches against Ireland and Japan to fine-tune their preparations.

    The tournament structure will see the top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six phase, followed by semi-finals on February 3-4, and the championship final on February 6 at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

    The complete squad includes: Joshua Dorne (captain), Jewel Andrew, Shamar Apple, Shaquan Belle, Zachary Carter, Tanez Francis, R’jai Gittens, Vitel Lawes, Micah McKenzie, Matthew Miller, Isra-el Morton, Jakeem Pollard, Aadian Racha, Kunal Tilokani, and Jonathan Van Lange (vice-captain). Supporting reserves and an experienced management unit led by head coach Rohan Nurse will accompany the team throughout the competition.

  • Four Antiguans Named in West Indies U19 World Cup Squad

    Four Antiguans Named in West Indies U19 World Cup Squad

    In an unprecedented development for Caribbean cricket, the Leeward Islands have secured remarkable representation with six young talents selected for the West Indies squad competing in the upcoming ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup. This historic selection marks a significant milestone for the region’s cricket development program.

    The tournament, scheduled to commence on January 15th across Zimbabwe and Namibia, will feature exceptional players from the Leeward Islands comprising nearly half of the 15-member West Indies roster. This extraordinary representation underscores years of strategic development and investment in youth cricket throughout the islands.

    The selected athletes include Jewel Andrew, Tanez Francis, Micah McKenzie, and Matthew Miller from Antigua and Barbuda, alongside Isra-el Morton representing Sint Maarten, and Kunal Tilokani from St. Kitts. Their selection resulted from demonstrated excellence in performance, exceptional discipline, and outstanding character both on and off the field.

    Enoch Lewis, President of the Leeward Islands Cricket Board, characterized this achievement as a transformative moment for regional cricket. “This selection validates the commitment of these young athletes and underscores the effectiveness of our developmental systems,” Lewis stated. “These players embody not just their respective nations but represent the collective advancement of cricket throughout our island chain.”

    The Under-19 World Cup selection holds particular significance within West Indies cricket, serving as the foundational platform where future international careers are forged. This accomplishment positions these young cricketers among the Caribbean’s most promising talents while entrusting them with representing the region against world-class opposition.

    The Cricket Board acknowledged the collaborative effort involving territorial associations, coaching staff, educational institutions, local clubs, and family support networks that contributed to this success. This achievement demonstrates the power of structured development programs, sustained investment, and long-term belief in athletic potential.

    The Leeward Islands Cricket Board has reaffirmed its complete support for the players as they prepare for international competition while emphasizing continued commitment to developing cricket talent across all islands. This moment serves as both celebration of current achievement and inspiration for future generations of Leeward Islands cricketers.

  • Outstanding performances by Black Sands at regional championships

    Outstanding performances by Black Sands at regional championships

    The Black Sands Swim Squad concluded an extraordinary December campaign with historic achievements at two major regional swimming championships, showcasing exceptional talent through national record-breaking performances and podium finishes.

    At the BASA Short Course National Championships held December 2-7, emerging prodigy Kione Deshong delivered a spectacular performance that captured attention across the swimming community. The young athlete demonstrated remarkable versatility by claiming an impressive haul of 11 medals—6 gold, 3 silver, and 2 bronze. His most significant achievement came in the 100 Individual Medley, where he shattered the St. Vincent and the Grenadines national record previously held by teammate Matthew Ballah. Deshong clocked 1:06.89, nearly a full second faster than the previous benchmark of 1:07.79.

    The team’s success continued at the ASATT Invitational from December 11-14, where Black Sands faced formidable competition from 47 regional teams. The four-member squad consisting of Deshong, Kennice Greene, Eltonique Leonard, and Matthew Ballah achieved an impressive 10th place overall finish against elite competition.

    Deshong maintained his exceptional form throughout the second competition, securing 4 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze medal while earning the 2nd overall trophy in his age category. His performance included rewriting three national records: 50 Freestyle (26.51, breaking Shane Cadogan’s 26.70), 100 Freestyle (59.49, surpassing Nicolas Silvestre’s 1:01.04), and 50 Backstroke (31.25, improving his own previous record of 32.70).

    Kennice Greene equally impressed with her outstanding performances, collecting 3 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal while also securing the 2nd overall trophy in her age group. Greene demonstrated significant personal improvement by breaking four of her own national records: 100 Freestyle (1:00.45 from 1:00.56), 50 Backstroke (32.14 from 32.80), 100 Backstroke (1:11.42 from 1:11.82), and 200 Individual Medley (2:38.69 from 2:41.08).

    Matthew Ballah contributed to the team’s success with 1 gold and 1 bronze medal, while establishing a new national record in the 100 backstroke with a time of 1:01.16, surpassing Brandon George’s previous record of 1:02.11. Eltonique Leonard completed the team’s medal collection with 1 silver and 3 bronze medals.

    Head Coach Kyle Dougan expressed immense pride in his team’s accomplishments, stating he was “very pleased, extremely proud, and encouraged by the results achieved across both competitions.” He extended congratulations to rival Blue Marlins Swim Club for their strong 13th place finish and acknowledged the crucial support from Assistant Coach Anwar Medjahed, Chaperone Fiana McMillan, and Team Medic Dr. Rohan Deshong.

  • Column: Ten Cate aan het roer

    Column: Ten Cate aan het roer

    In a bold strategic move to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, the Surinamese Football Association has secured the services of two renowned Dutch football figures. Former Ajax and Barcelona assistant coach Henk ten Cate has emerged from retirement to take helm as head coach, joined by ex-Chelsea and Barcelona defender Winston Bogarde as assistant coach.

    The appointments mark a significant development in Suriname’s renewed approach to international football, which focuses on leveraging professional players who received their training abroad. Both coaches bring substantial elite-level experience, with Ten Cate having previously worked with some of Europe’s top clubs while Bogarde enjoyed a distinguished playing career at the highest level.

    This coaching combination represents an unprecedented commitment to Suriname’s football development. Despite their already accomplished careers, both professionals have demonstrated willingness to contribute their expertise to help grow the national team program. Their decision to join the project underscores the seriousness of Suriname’s World Cup ambitions.

    Football authorities emphasize that this moment represents a unique opportunity for Surinamese football, though significant challenges remain. The path to World Cup qualification requires extensive work from all stakeholders—the board, general manager, coaching staff, and players alike. Success will also depend on FIFA’s cooperation in releasing eligible players in a timely manner to facilitate proper preparation.

    The appointments have generated optimism within Surinamese football circles, with hopes that the coaches’ expertise and humility will positively influence the entire organization as they work toward the common goal of international success.

  • Trinidad and Tobago’s Aadian Racha named in World Cup Under-19 squad

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Aadian Racha named in World Cup Under-19 squad

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has officially announced its 15-member Rising Stars Men’s Under-19 squad for the upcoming 2026 ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup, scheduled to take place across Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6.

    The selection reflects a meticulous talent identification process that prioritized performances during regional competitions and international preparatory series. The squad notably includes players who excelled in two recent seven-match Youth ODI series victories—a 5-2 triumph over England in Grenada and a closely fought 4-3 win against Sri Lanka last August and September.

    Top-order batsman Joshua Dorne has been appointed captain, cementing his leadership status following an exceptional year across both regional and youth international circuits. All-rounder Jonathan van Lange will serve as vice-captain. The squad boasts significant experience with several members, including Dorne and wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew, having represented the region at the 2024 edition. Andrew, who made history as the youngest player to represent the senior West Indies team in T20Is earlier this year, also holds the same record for ODIs which he claimed in October 2024.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s representation is limited to bowling all-rounder Aadian Racha in the main squad, with batting all-rounder Brendan Boodoo named among four traveling reserves.

    CWI’s high-performance manager Dwain Gill emphasized the strategic approach behind team selection: “This squad is the product of a deliberate and well-structured preparation and selection process. Performances in regional Under-17 and Under-19 competitions were closely monitored, with an emphasis on identifying players with specialist skills and the adaptability required for international cricket.”

    The team will benefit from the experience of Zachary Carter, Matthew Miller, Jakeem Pollard, Shaquan Belle and Vitel Lawes, all of whom played pivotal roles during the successful home series against Sri Lanka and England. Micah McKenzie brings additional experience having made his List A debut for the West Indies Academy against Sri Lanka’s Emerging Men’s team in June before earning his maiden cap for Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the 2025 CG United Super 50 Cup.

    Drawn in Group D alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, and Tanzania, the West Indies will play all group stage matches at the High-Performance Oval in Windhoek, Namibia. Preparatory warm-up matches against Ireland and Japan are scheduled for January 10 and 13 respectively in Windhoek.

    The tournament structure will see the top three teams from each group advance to the Super Six phase, followed by semifinals on February 3-4, culminating in the championship final on February 6 at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

  • Josiah Hills, Christopher Khan progress to RBC Under-16 finals

    Josiah Hills, Christopher Khan progress to RBC Under-16 finals

    The National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua witnessed exceptional junior tennis prowess on December 17th as the RBC Junior Tennis tournament semifinals unfolded with commanding performances from top-seeded athletes across multiple age divisions.

    In the boys’ 16-and-Under singles category, tournament favorite Josiah Hills delivered a masterclass performance, dismantling fifth-seeded Oliver Harragin with a flawless 6-0, 6-0 victory. The top-seeded player demonstrated why he holds the premier position in the draw with his dominant display. Meanwhile, second-seeded Christopher Khan faced stiffer competition from third-ranked Jovan Garibana, ultimately prevailing through determined play with scores of 6-4, 7-5 to secure his championship berth.

    The girls’ 16-and-Under division similarly saw top seeds advancing to the final round. First-seeded Makeda Bain navigated past fourth-ranked Karissa Mohammed in a match that culminated 6-0, 7-6, earning her place in the championship match. She will face second-seeded Cyra Ramcharan, who demonstrated her competitive edge with a decisive 6-1, 6-4 victory over third-ranked Suri Ramcharan.

    Younger competitors in the boys’ 12-and-Under category mirrored the pattern of seed dominance. Top-seeded Dylan Frost secured his advancement with a 4-2, 4-2 win against Daniel Ward, while second-seeded Ethan Primus overcame Zachary Anthony 4-0, 4-2. Third-seeded Austin Ward recorded a comprehensive 4-1, 4-0 triumph over Zayden Alexis, and fourth-seeded Nicholas McLetchie completed the semifinal victories with a 4-1, 4-1 performance against Malik Bain.

    The tournament continues through December 18th with championship matches determining the ultimate winners in each competitive category.

  • SHINE 5K to benefit hurricane-stricken children in Jamaica

    SHINE 5K to benefit hurricane-stricken children in Jamaica

    Guardian Group’s annual SHINE 5K and 10K Charity Walk and Run has demonstrated remarkable philanthropic impact through its eighth edition held on November 29, 2025. The event, which originated in 2015, has evolved into a significant movement benefiting numerous organizations dedicated to children’s welfare across Trinidad and Tobago and beyond.

    During a December 15 ceremony at Guardian Group’s Westmoorings headquarters, over thirty child-focused organizations received substantial funding from the $780,000 raised through this year’s initiative. The distribution ceremony highlighted the sustained commitment of corporate Trinidad to social development through athletic philanthropy.

    Ayesha Boucaud-Claxton, Group Head of Marketing and Communication at Guardian Group, emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative. “SHINE has transcended beyond a mere event into a genuine movement characterized by generosity, unity, and collective care,” she stated. “Our dedication to community development remains sustained, deliberate, and deeply embedded in our organizational identity.”

    This year’s edition introduced a regional humanitarian component, with portions of the proceeds allocated to support Jamaican children affected by Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in October 2025. The storm particularly impacted western Jamaica, prompting Guardian Group to extend its philanthropic reach across the Caribbean.

    “Our assistance extends beyond national borders this year,” Boucaud-Claxton explained. “This allocation demonstrates our recognition of Caribbean unity—when one territory suffers, we collectively respond as a single family.”

    Corporate partners including One Caribbean Media, Liberty Business, and SM Jaleel received special recognition for their sustained support in amplifying the initiative’s impact. Beneficiary organizations spanned diverse focus areas including the Autism Support Network, Dyslexia Association of Trinidad and Tobago, Playable Caribbean, and Just Because Foundation, all providing essential services in safety, mentorship, education, and counseling for vulnerable youth.

    The funds will primarily strengthen existing programs, expand service capabilities, and create new opportunities for children facing significant challenges. Guardian Group officials encouraged continuing the “yeoman service” provided by these organizations in transforming obstacles into opportunities for the next generation.

  • Cuba’s Yuray Preval lights up RABZ 9 with heavyweight crown

    Cuba’s Yuray Preval lights up RABZ 9 with heavyweight crown

    In a spectacular display of combat prowess, Cuban martial artist Yuray Preval emerged victorious at the RABZ 9: Boxing Day Come Early event held at The Sound Forge in Mucurapo on December 13. Preval claimed the inaugural RABZ heavyweight championship by defeating Trinidad and Tobago’s Liam “Shogun” Chin Choy through unanimous decision in the night’s main event.

    The international kickboxing showcase featured athletes from Cuba, St Lucia, Venezuela, and Trinidad and Tobago competing across eight thrilling bouts. Preval, representing RAMS Fight Club, demonstrated exceptional technique and relentless aggression throughout the championship match, maintaining his perfect RABZ record of 5-0 victories.

    Several other fighters delivered notable performances during the event. Nevin “Hazzard” Byer secured a unanimous decision victory against Aiden Rampaul in the 145-pound division, while Nicholas “The Executive” Elliott dominated St Lucian opponent Charles Greenidge in the 175-pound category. The women’s division saw Ariel Solomon achieve victory over Vanessa Sankar via unanimous decision in the 125-pound debutant matchup.

    Additional results included Marc Sargeant’s technical knockout win against Brayan Alfonzo in the 130-pound C-class bout, and Venezuelan fighter Samuel Negrin’s technical knockout victory over Emmanuel Jugmohan. Levi Salloum earned a unanimous decision against Varenyam Maharaj in the 165-pound class, while Aaimar John and Alexi McDeigan fought to a majority draw in their 145-pound contest.

    RABZ Fight Promotions has announced ambitious expansion plans for 2026, intending to provide enhanced opportunities for champions including welterweight titleholder Ronaldo Diaz, middleweight champion Le Shaun Moreno, and newly crowned heavyweight king Preval to compete on regional and international platforms.