Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Herbert Morrison win six straight in ISSA Under-16 basketball

    Herbert Morrison win six straight in ISSA Under-16 basketball

    In a commanding display of athletic prowess, Herbert Morrison Technical High School extended its winning streak in the ISSA Rural Area Under-16 Zone B basketball competition. The team secured its sixth consecutive victory with a resounding 89-25 triumph over York Castle High in a return round match held at Buckfield Oval in St Ann on Thursday.

    The junior squad’s victory was spearheaded by a formidable offensive duo. Michael Johnson delivered an impressive 22-point performance, closely supported by Rafael Stephenson who contributed 20 points to their team’s total. Despite an initial challenge from their opponents, Herbert Morrison quickly established dominance and maintained control throughout the game. For York Castle, Marcodean Frater emerged as the leading scorer with 14 points.

    In parallel Under-19 division action, Herbert Morrison maintained their undefeated record with a decisive 65-10 victory against Ocho Rios High. However, York Castle demonstrated resilience by securing a win against Ocho Rios in the same age category, while also prevailing over Holland High with a convincing 73-37 scoreline.

    The basketball action continued with Ryan Jurdine leading Herbert Morrison’s Under-16 team to a remarkable shutout performance against Ocho Rios during the second half of their encounter. The team established an overwhelming 21-1 advantage in the opening quarter and expanded their lead to 33-10 by halftime before completely dominating the final two quarters with a 32-0 scoring run.

    In regional derby action, Ocho Rios claimed a 53-38 victory against York Castle in the St Ann matchup. Christian Andorn delivered a game-high 17 points for York Castle, while Matthew Smith led Ocho Rios with 16 points.

    Meanwhile, in Zone A Under-16 competition, Knox College secured a 30-23 victory against Old Harbour High with Javante Currie contributing 12 points to the winning effort.

  • District 8 dominate primary school road race

    District 8 dominate primary school road race

    Young athletes from the shadow of Saint Lucia’s iconic Pitons delivered an extraordinary performance on Tuesday, securing a dominant victory at the Inter-District Primary Schools Road Race in Gros Islet. The event, which gathered nearly 100 competitors from across the island, witnessed District 8 (representing Soufriere and Canaries) capturing three out of four available gold medals.

    The competition commenced on Bella Rosa Road, with participants navigating a challenging three-kilometer course culminating at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Despite the demanding route, all competitors exhibited remarkable determination and athletic prowess throughout the event.

    In the Under-13 boys division, Kem Deterville of District 8 claimed gold with an impressive time of 11:22.7 minutes, while his teammates secured additional positions within the top ten rankings. Jason Williams from District 1 earned silver with 11:33.5, and Nathan Dupre of District 3 captured bronze at 11:37.5.

    The Under-13 girls category saw Earnisha Cherubin from District 8 achieve gold with a time of 13:44.3 minutes. She was followed by Lean Gaillard of District 3 (14:14.6) and Chrisannie Mitchel of District 5 (14:18.1). Once again, all three District 8 runners finished within the top ten positions.

    A particularly remarkable performance came from Hadassah Jules in the Under-11 girls category, who outpaced both Under-13 female competitors and many male runners with an extraordinary time of 12:51.3 minutes. Her teammate Dreamer Longville secured third place (13:30.4), while Octavia Octave of District 6 claimed second (13:10.9).

    The sole category not won by District 8 was the Under-11 boys division, where Vanile Eugene of District 3 took gold with 11:55.2 minutes. Lidj Jn Pierre of District 7 secured silver (12:10.7), while Janik Prospere of District 8 earned bronze (12:20.6).

    The event demonstrated exceptional athletic talent among Saint Lucia’s youth while highlighting the emerging dominance of runners from the Soufriere and Canaries region.

  • Column: Werk aan de winkel

    Column: Werk aan de winkel

    Suriname’s national football team has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years, revealing a concerning trend about the country’s player development system. The squad now consists predominantly of professional players who received their training abroad, marking a significant departure from previous selection practices.

    Initially, selectors made concerted efforts to include players from the local league, but gradually the representation of domestically-trained athletes diminished. For a considerable period, only Robinhood club players maintained spots on the national team roster. Eventually, even these field players were phased out, leaving only the goalkeeper as the sole representative of Suriname’s domestic development system.

    This evolution starkly demonstrates that footballers trained within Suriname’s current system are failing to meet international standards. While this realization is painful, it represents an honest assessment that demands immediate attention from all stakeholders in Surinamese football.

    Recognizing the problem marks a crucial starting point for addressing the undesirable situation. The entire approach to football in Suriname requires thorough evaluation, with courage to identify specific weaknesses. Solution-oriented models must be developed to comprehensively improve the quality of football in its broadest sense.

    The overwhelming public turnout at national team training sessions indicates that football enthusiasts desperately crave qualitative improvement of the sport. These open training sessions attract significantly more spectators than competitive league matches, prompting critical reflection.

    The introduction of a professional league was once believed to be the ultimate solution, but reality has proven otherwise. While establishing professional competition was necessary, it alone cannot make Surinamese football attractive. The massive attendance at official national team matches—despite high ticket prices—demonstrates public willingness to pay for quality football entertainment.

    A proposed football congress could provide the platform to not only identify problems but also develop concrete solutions for elevating the quality of the game. This gathering must generate strategies to professionalize all aspects of football, including transforming clubs into corporate entities with proper management structures.

    Football must cease to be viewed as a part-time activity compatible with full-time employment. Serious professional positions need creation, and marketing strategies require significant enhancement to make football competitive with other entertainment options and financially viable. Creating a broad forum where all stakeholders can contribute to improving Surinamese football remains essential—and there is substantial work ahead.

  • Pleasantville edge Five Rivers on penalties for girls crown

    Pleasantville edge Five Rivers on penalties for girls crown

    In a breathtaking finale at Couva’s Ato Boldon Stadium on December 10, Pleasantville Secondary emerged victorious in the 2025 Secondary Schools Football League Coca-Cola Girls Intercol championship after defeating Five Rivers 5-3 in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 deadlock in regulation time.

    The match began with Five Rivers establishing early dominance, creating multiple scoring opportunities within the opening minutes. Striker Akira Charles tested Pleasantville’s goalkeeper Akeila Marryshow with a well-placed shot, only to be denied by a spectacular diving save. Minutes later, captain Shaquilla Daniel missed a critical chance after evading Marryshow, shooting wide of an open net.

    Pleasantville capitalized on these missed opportunities when captain Natalia Gosine executed a brilliantly taken free kick that deflected off a defender, wrong-footing Five Rivers goalkeeper Akilah George for the opening goal. The lead proved short-lived as Jadya Herbert’s persistent attacks down the left flank created an equalizer for Hackeemar Goodridge, who finished clinically from close range.

    Five Rivers regained the advantage early in the second half when Goodridge struck again, converting another precise finish after finding space in the penalty area. The match seemed destined for Five Rivers’ victory until Zara Chase produced a moment of individual brilliance in the 67th minute, unleashing a spectacular long-range effort that curled into the top right corner.

    The dramatic conclusion saw Goodridge stretchered off with an injury just before regulation time expired, setting the stage for the penalty shootout. Herbert’s crucial miss from the spot proved decisive, while Pleasantville converted all five attempts with clinical precision. Captain Gosine sealed the victory with the final penalty, triggering wild celebrations among Pleasantville players and fans alike.

    Under the guidance of head coach Brian London, the new champions celebrated their hard-fought victory in the center circle, capturing the coveted title in one of the most memorable finals in recent SSFL history.

  • Naparima complete SSFL triple crown with Intercol title

    Naparima complete SSFL triple crown with Intercol title

    Naparima College achieved a remarkable clean sweep of all 2025 Secondary Schools Football League honors by securing the prestigious Coca-Cola National Intercol title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Signal Hill Secondary at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on December 10.

    The decisive moment arrived in the 22nd minute when Signal Hill goalkeeper Kaleb Romeo committed a critical handling error, allowing a routine cross from Jabari Rodriguez to slip through his gloves and ricochet into his own net. This unfortunate blunder proved sufficient for Southern champions Naparima to claim the season’s ultimate prize, adding to their previously secured league title and South Zone Intercol championship.

    Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities throughout the match, Naparima faced tense final moments as Signal Hill’s substitute attackers J’Meke Watkins and Damario Henry intensified their pursuit of an equalizer. However, Naparima’s defensive unit—featuring Jeremiah Daniel, Elijah Edwards, and Antonio Hills—remained impenetrable, preserving their slender advantage until the final whistle.

    Midfielder Jacob O’Reilly earned Man of the Match honors for his exceptional distribution and consistent midfield control, orchestrating Naparima’s attacking movements throughout the ninety minutes. Though numerous chances were squandered—including several from forward Riquelme Phillips—Naparima’s overall superiority justified their historic achievement.

    The victory marked a second disappointing outcome for Tobago’s Signal Hill against Naparima this season, having previously fallen 2-1 in November’s league encounter. Following the match, Naparima head coach Angus Eve expressed immense pride in his squad’s dedication and performance, noting, ‘The players demonstrated tremendous consistency and executed our game plan perfectly tonight.’

    As the final whistle sounded, Naparima’s hundreds of traveling supporters erupted in celebration while players momentarily clashed on the field before joining their school band in triumphant festivities. Goalkeeper Mikhail Clement proudly waved the college flag atop the goal frame, symbolizing the completion of an extraordinary triple crown campaign.

  • STRONGER TOGETHER

    STRONGER TOGETHER

    The Jamaica Premier League (JPL) faces potential disruption as newly-promoted Treasure Beach FC struggles with severe hurricane aftermath, though league organizers express confidence in the club’s eventual return. Professional Football Jamaica Limited (PFJL) CEO Owen Hill confirmed that while contingency plans exist for a possible withdrawal, the St. Elizabeth-based club remains integral to the competition’s value and geographic diversity.

    The league resumed on Sunday following a six-week suspension caused by Hurricane Melissa, with 13 of 14 teams having completed eight matches over a four-day period. Treasure Beach, however, received special permission for additional preparation time due to the catastrophic impact on their community and financial infrastructure.

    Hill explained the exceptional circumstances: “The community served as the financial lifeblood of the football organization. Businesses that offset operational expenditures, sponsors, and supporters all suffered severe damage. This created an unusually constrained financial position requiring additional weeks to mobilize support.”

    The club has been granted until December 21st to resume competition, with Hill confirming written assurances from management regarding their readiness. “They’re back in camp now,” Hill stated, “with three additional match days for preparation.”

    Despite these assurances, withdrawal possibilities were reportedly discussed during league meetings last month. Head Coach Kemar Ricketts acknowledged intensified efforts to overcome challenges, but Hill emphasized the PFJL and Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) would proceed without them if necessary.

    “As a risk-mitigating strategy,” Hill detailed, “we maintain weekly dialogue leading to the December 21 deadline. Should participation prove impossible, we have protocol-based alternatives regarding league structure with 13 teams and point allocation.”

    The CEO highlighted Treasure Beach’s significance beyond competitive balance: “Partners want products placed in these communities, sponsors seek island-wide brand exposure, and players deserve opportunities across different regions. Teams like Montego Bay United, Mount Pleasant, and Treasure Beach provide crucial geographic diversity for talent development and commercial expansion.”

    The last JPL withdrawal occurred in 2021 when UWI FC left due to financial difficulties, underscoring the ongoing challenges facing Jamaica’s premier football competition.

  • Windies fight back, but Black Caps take 41-run lead into day 3

    Windies fight back, but Black Caps take 41-run lead into day 3

    WELLINGTON – An electrifying day of cricket unfolded at Basin Reserve on December 11 as New Zealand established a precarious 41-run lead against West Indies in the second Test, with eleven wickets tumbling throughout the dramatic second day’s play.

    The hosts, resuming at 24/0 in response to West Indies’ first-innings total of 205, were eventually contained for 278 after a declaration, securing a 73-run advantage. The Black Caps’ batting effort was spearheaded by debutant Mitchell Hay, who showcased remarkable composure with an aggressive 61 runs from 93 deliveries. His maiden Test half-century proved instrumental in pushing New Zealand past the visitors’ initial score.

    West Indies’ pace attack demonstrated moments of brilliance, particularly during the morning session. Veteran seamer Kemar Roach (2/43) produced a magnificent delivery to dismiss captain Tom Latham for 11, while Anderson Phillip (3/70) claimed the prized wicket of star batsman Kane Williamson with an unplayable ball that shattered the off-stump. Williamson had been building momentum with 37 runs from just 46 balls.

    The post-lunch session saw immediate breakthroughs as Roach and first-Test hero Justin Greaves removed Rachin Ravindra (5) and Devon Conway (60) within three balls, reducing New Zealand to 117/4. A stabilizing 73-run partnership between Hay and Daryl Mitchell (25) followed before Phillip struck again, with wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach taking a sharp leg-side catch confirmed by review.

    Despite reaching tea at 200/5, New Zealand suffered another quick setback as Hay’s aggressive innings ended with a catch by Roach at fine-leg off Ojay Shields (1/50). The lower order contributed valuable runs, with Zakary Foulkes remaining unbeaten on 23 before the declaration at 278/9. The hosts were forced to bowl without pacer Blair Tickner, who dislocated his shoulder on day one.

    West Indies faced a challenging final session in their second innings, stumbling to 32/2 after opener John Campbell (14) was bowled by debutant Michael Rae. Nightwatchman Anderson Phillip fell for a duck to Jacob Duffy following a successful review. Brandon King (15*) and Kavem Hodge (3*) will resume the innings on day three with West Indies still trailing by 41 runs.

  • Grand Slam Track files for bankruptcy

    Grand Slam Track files for bankruptcy

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The emerging track and field circuit, Grand Slam Track (GST), founded by Olympic medalist Michael Johnson, has formally initiated bankruptcy proceedings. The league announced this significant development through an official statement released on its Instagram platform this Thursday, citing the abrupt withdrawal of a key financial commitment earlier this year as the primary catalyst.

    In its communiqué, the league reflected on its ambitious mission to establish a premier professional platform worthy of the sport’s elite athletes. The inaugural season was hailed for delivering a series of memorable competitions, featuring groundbreaking athletic performances, unexpected outcomes, and highly anticipated rivalries. However, these sporting successes were overshadowed by persistent structural challenges.

    ‘While our first season successfully created a backdrop for unforgettable races and record-breaking moments,’ the statement read, ‘it simultaneously revealed that the league required a more durable financial and operational foundation to truly fulfill its long-term mission.’

    Following the sudden loss of its pledged investment, GST leadership embarked on an intensive campaign to secure alternative funding sources. The objective was to meet existing financial obligations and ensure the league’s continuity. After exhausting all potential avenues, the organization concluded that a court-supervised reorganization process represents the most viable strategy to safeguard its community and overarching objectives.

    This bankruptcy filing is positioned not as an endpoint, but as a strategic restructuring. GST emphasized that this legal process will facilitate the resolution of outstanding liabilities, potentially attracting new investors and strategic partners. The ultimate goal remains achieving sustainable growth and long-term stability for the innovative track league.

  • Manchester High double up Christiana High in ISSA basketball

    Manchester High double up Christiana High in ISSA basketball

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — Manchester High School’s basketball teams delivered a stunning display of dominance on Wednesday, securing decisive victories in both the Under-19 and Under-16 divisions of the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Rural Area boys’ competition against Christiana High.

    The senior matchup concluded with an overwhelming 106-14 scoreline, spearheaded by an exceptional triple-double performance from Shamar Bogle. The standout athlete amassed 31 points, 10 steals, and 10 assists, demonstrating all-around excellence on the court. He received formidable support from teammate Omar Daley, who contributed a double-double with 29 points and 14 rebounds.

    Earlier in the day, the junior team set the tone with a commanding 93-10 victory. Jacquan Palmer emerged as the top scorer with 23 points, ensuring Manchester High’s clean sweep in the day’s fixtures.

    The basketball action continued across the region with Tuesday’s games producing similarly impressive results. Knox College achieved their own double triumph against St. Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS). The Under-19 squad secured a 51-43 comeback victory, outscoring their opponents 13-3 in the final quarter behind Shemari Walker’s 18-point performance. Their Under-16 counterparts delivered an even more dominant 88-14 win, with Deron Richards (21 points) and Kobi Tee (20 points) leading the offensive charge while holding STETHS to single-digit scoring throughout all four quarters.

    Elsewhere, Herbert Morrison extended their winning streak to five games in the Under-16 division with a spectacular 98-8 rout of Holland High. The team established an unprecedented 57-0 lead by halftime, fueled by Shamar Russell’s remarkable triple-double of 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 16 steals. Meanwhile, York Castle High claimed a 72-38 victory over Muschett High, thanks to Marcodean Frater’s game-high 24 points.

  • Bolt and Puma donate J$5 million each to STETHS, William Knibb for hurricane relief

    Bolt and Puma donate J$5 million each to STETHS, William Knibb for hurricane relief

    Olympic icon Usain Bolt has joined forces with his long-time sponsor Puma to provide substantial relief to two hurricane-damaged Jamaican educational institutions. The sprint legend is directing J$5 million each to St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) and his alma mater, William Knibb Memorial High in Trelawny, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in late October.

    The Category 5 storm inflicted severe structural damage on both campuses, particularly affecting critical learning facilities. At STETHS in Santa Cruz, the grade 11 block—essential for students preparing for Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations—was completely stripped of its roofing system. Additional damage affected grades seven and nine buildings, staff accommodations, athlete dormitories, perimeter walls, and spectator stands.

    William Knibb Memorial High reported seven damaged structures on its compound, with six experiencing severe roof destruction. The institution holds special significance for Bolt, who has maintained consistent support through annual equipment and gear donations since achieving professional athletic status.

    The humanitarian response follows Bolt’s immediate post-hurricane deployment of an assessment team to evaluate damage in his hometown and surrounding Trelawny parishes. This strategic approach ensured targeted allocation of resources to areas of greatest need during recovery operations.

    This partnership exemplifies athlete-corporate collaboration in addressing natural disaster consequences, highlighting how sports figures can leverage sponsorship relationships for community development during crises. The donation addresses both immediate infrastructural needs and long-term educational continuity for affected students.