Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Footballer Pearson inducted in US school Hall of Fame

    Footballer Pearson inducted in US school Hall of Fame

    Peter Pearson, the Saint Lucia international midfielder, has received one of his most prestigious honors with induction into the Cape Henry Collegiate School Athletic Hall of Fame. The ceremony, held this week, recognized Pearson’s exceptional career both during his time as a student-athlete and his subsequent achievements across collegiate, professional, and international soccer.

    The 30-year-old, US-born athlete has earned seven caps for the Saint Lucia national team, scoring one goal while representing the ‘Piton Boyz’ in high-stakes competitions. His international portfolio includes appearances in the CONCACAF Nations League, FIFA World Cup Qualifying, and Gold Cup Qualifying matches.

    Beyond his international career, Pearson has built a substantial professional career spanning five years, primarily within the United States soccer system. His most recent club engagement was with USL League Two side Des Moines Menace during the 2024 season.

    Pearson, a 2014 alumnus of the Virginia Beach institution, was among five distinguished inductees honored at Monday’s ceremony. The induction class included Tyler Ramirez (Class of 2013), legendary Coach Jack Effner, Khajae Hester (Class of 2012), and Erin Scherrer (Class of 2015).

    In an official release, Cape Henry Collegiate highlighted that “their stories highlighted gratitude, commitment, resilience and growth, and reminded us that success is built together as a community.”

    The school, which describes itself as Virginia Beach’s premier college-preparatory private school serving students from prekindergarten through grade 12, boasts an enrollment exceeding 1,000 students. Its athletic department facilitates training and competition across an impressive spectrum of 60 different sports.

    Expressing his gratitude via social media, Pearson stated: “Honoured and truly grateful to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of such a prestigious institution that helped me get to where I am today. This recognition is a reflection of the incredible teammates and people who shared the journey and made it possible.”

    He further reflected on the profound impact of his athletic career: “Football has given me far more than the game itself: lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, the loves of my life, and the chance to give back and inspire the next generation. Forever thankful.”

    Following his graduation from Cape Henry Collegiate, Pearson continued his academic and athletic pursuits at the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University. Today, he serves as Assistant Technical Director at Own Touch Central while simultaneously working with NDUR for Athletes as a mentor and mental health advocate, dedicated to helping student-athletes strengthen their mindset, confidence, and performance.

  • West Indies Under-19 thrash Japan in World Cup warmup

    West Indies Under-19 thrash Japan in World Cup warmup

    In a dominant display of cricketing prowess, the West Indies Under-19 team delivered a crushing 229-run victory over Japan during an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup warm-up match in Windhoek on Tuesday, January 13th.

    The Caribbean side, having been put into bat first, established a formidable foundation through an explosive opening partnership. Tanez Francis and Zachary Carter launched their innings with a 40-run stand within the initial seven overs, setting the stage for an extraordinary batting performance. Francis emerged as the cornerstone of the innings, remaining unbeaten with a magnificent 122 runs.

    The match witnessed an extraordinary fifth-wicket partnership between Francis and Shamar Apple that completely shifted the momentum beyond Japan’s reach. Apple delivered a breathtaking century, hammering 124 runs from a mere 65 deliveries in a display of pure power-hitting that included 10 boundaries and 8 massive sixes.

    Facing a daunting victory target of 347, Japan’s batting lineup crumbled under relentless pressure from the West Indies bowling attack. While Taylor Waugh provided some resistance with 32 runs, the team consistently lost wickets at regular intervals. The Japanese side was ultimately dismissed for a mere 117 runs in 31.2 overs.

    R’Jai Gittens proved virtually unplayable, finishing with spectacular bowling figures of 4 wickets for just 8 runs. Vitel Lawes provided crucial support with three additional wickets, effectively dismantling Japan’s batting order.

    The comprehensive victory positions the West Indies as strong contenders to advance from Group D in the upcoming World Cup preliminary stage, where they will face South Africa, Afghanistan, and tournament newcomers Tanzania.

    This impressive performance signals the team’s determination to end their decade-long championship drought, with players and supporters alike hoping to replicate their historic 2016 triumph.

  • BPBL Welcomes New Leadership

    BPBL Welcomes New Leadership

    The Belize Premier Basketball League (BPBL) has announced a significant expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of Glenn Gill as Deputy Commissioner. This strategic move brings one of Belize’s most experienced basketball figures into the league’s administrative structure.

    Gill brings decades of basketball expertise to his new position, having established himself as one of Belize’s longest-serving referees with FIBA certification. His extensive background includes previous leadership experience as commissioner of the Belize Elite Basketball League, earning him respect both within the national basketball community and internationally.

    The newly appointed deputy will work alongside existing Deputy Commissioner Amir Garcia, both operating under the guidance of Commissioner Claudio Leal, who is commencing his second year leading the BPBL. This strengthened leadership team signals the league’s commitment to enhanced governance and development.

    In his official capacity, Gill will assume responsibility for overseeing league operations and ensuring regional preparedness. His portfolio will include supporting team development, officiating standards, and game-day infrastructure management. League representatives characterized the appointment as reflecting BPBL’s dedication to “operational excellence, competitive integrity, and long-term growth.”

    In a gesture of solidarity within Belize’s basketball community, the BPBL leadership extended congratulations to the National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) on its scheduled relaunch in February. The statement emphasized that both competitions contribute significantly to strengthening the nation’s basketball ecosystem.

    The BPBL, which is scheduled to resume competition in July 2026, continues to build institutional capacity during its off-season in preparation for its return.

  • Leslie Harrow named chairman of new SDF board

    Leslie Harrow named chairman of new SDF board

    In a significant move for Jamaica’s sporting infrastructure, the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport has announced a comprehensive restructuring of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF) board. Portfolio Minister Olivia Grange confirmed the cabinet-approved appointments on Wednesday, naming seasoned administrator Leslie Harrow as the new chairman.

    Harrow ascends to the leadership role with an extensive background in sports management and public administration. His professional portfolio includes previous service as general manager of the SDF itself, executive director of the Institute of Jamaica, and director general of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. This diverse experience positions him to guide the foundation’s strategic direction.

    Minister Grange outlined the revitalized board’s primary objectives, which will center on fortifying the organization’s technical capabilities and operational effectiveness. Key priorities include achieving full staffing levels, enhancing organizational efficiency, and elevating the public profile of the SDF’s initiatives. These developments were formally communicated through the Minister’s official social media channels.

    The newly constituted board features several prominent figures in Jamaican sports administration, including former Institute of Sport chairman Newton Amos. Harrow succeeds outgoing chairman Lelsie Campbell in leading the nine-member governing body.

    Established as an independent entity in 1995, the Sports Development Foundation has played a pivotal role in national development through athletic programs and infrastructure projects. This board transformation signals a renewed governmental commitment to sports as a catalyst for national progress.

  • Costa, Heatwave appeal High Court decision to clear Pan Am trials

    Costa, Heatwave appeal High Court decision to clear Pan Am trials

    National cyclist Alexi Costa-Ramirez and Heatwave Cycling Club have initiated legal proceedings against the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation (TTCF) by filing an appeal challenging a recent High Court ruling. The appeal, submitted on January 14, seeks to overturn Justice Westmin James’ January 13 decision that denied their request for an interim injunction to prevent endurance trials scheduled for January 17.

    The legal confrontation stems from ongoing disputes regarding the TTCF’s selection methodology for the upcoming Pan American Track Cycling Championships in February. The controversy involves multiple athletes including Costa-Ramirez, Njisane Phillip, and Makaira Wallace from JLD Cycling Academy, all contesting the fairness of the federation’s qualification process.

    In their appellate arguments, Heatwave and Costa-Ramirez contend that the trial judge committed legal errors by dismissing their claims. They specifically challenge the court’s determination that some athletes had already submitted performance data without attending trials, and the conclusion that halting the trials would disproportionately harm the federation.

    The appellants assert the existence of an implied contractual obligation mandating equitable treatment of all athletes during selection procedures. They further argue that financial compensation cannot adequately remedy the potential loss of opportunity to compete at prestigious international events, particularly with Olympic qualification implications at stake.

    The appeal emphasizes that suspending the trials would not adversely affect the federation’s operations, while proceeding could cause irreparable damage to athletes’ careers during this critical Olympic qualification period. The appellants have requested expedited consideration of their appeal under Civil Proceedings Rules Part 64.10, citing the urgent nature of selection deadlines preceding the continental championships.

  • Platini says Infantino has become ‘more of an autocrat’

    Platini says Infantino has become ‘more of an autocrat’

    In a candid interview with The Guardian, former UEFA President Michel Platini delivered a damning assessment of current FIFA leader Gianni Infantino, accusing him of autocratic tendencies and an excessive focus on cultivating relationships with the wealthy and powerful.

    Platini, who previously served as Infantino’s superior at European football’s governing body from 2009 to 2015, characterized the FIFA president’s leadership style as fundamentally flawed. “He was a good number two, but is not a good number one,” Platini stated, highlighting what he perceives as Infantino’s problematic attraction to moneyed influence. “He likes the rich and powerful people, the ones with money. It’s his character.”

    The French football legend specifically pointed to the pandemic period as a turning point, noting that “Unfortunately Infantino has become more of an autocrat since the pandemic.” This criticism extends to Infantino’s cultivation of high-profile relationships, including his close ties with former US President Donald Trump, whom Infantino awarded a special FIFA peace prize during the World Cup draw ceremony in December ahead of the 2026 tournament across North America.

    Platini offered a surprising comparative analysis of FIFA’s governance, suggesting the organization under Infantino has become less democratic than during the scandal-plagued era of Sepp Blatter. “There is less democracy than in Blatter’s time,” Platini claimed, acknowledging Blatter’s problematic desire to remain president for life while simultaneously characterizing him as “a good person for football.”

    The former Juventus and French national team star also expressed broader concerns about modern football administration, noting that many current officials lack genuine passion for the sport. “You find many who wouldn’t care whether it’s football or basketball. It’s not always a case of loving football if you work at UEFA or FIFA.”

    Platini’s criticism stems from longstanding tensions between the two administrators, including his belief that Infantino undermined his FIFA presidential ambitions by alerting Swiss prosecutors about a controversial $2.5 million payment from Blatter to Platini that ultimately derailed both of their careers.

  • West Indies win opening game at ICC Cricket World Cup

    West Indies win opening game at ICC Cricket World Cup

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The West Indies Under-19 cricket squad launched their ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup campaign with a decisive five-wicket triumph against Tanzania in Namibia on Thursday. The Caribbean team demonstrated formidable bowling prowess and confident batting to secure their first victory in the tournament.

    West Indies’ bowling attack proved instrumental in containing Tanzania’s innings after winning the toss and electing to field. Seamer Shaquan Belle delivered an exceptional all-round performance, earning Man-of-the-match honors with figures of 2-33, complemented by a crucial catch and a direct-hit runout that disrupted Tanzania’s middle order.

    Despite a promising 53-run opening partnership between Dylan Thakrar (26) and Darpan Jobanputra (19), Tanzania’s batting lineup collapsed spectacularly, bowled out for a modest 122 runs in just 34 overs. The Caribbean bowling unit maintained relentless pressure, with Vitel Lawes claiming impressive figures of 3-23 and Micah McKenzie contributing 2-15.

    In response, West Indies approached their run chase with calculated aggression. Opener Tanez Francis dominated the innings with a tournament-first half-century, scoring 52 runs off 55 deliveries including five boundaries and one six. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew provided strong support with 44 runs from 44 balls as the team reached their target of 124-5 in just 21 overs.

    In other tournament action, India secured a six-wicket victory against the United States, while the scheduled match between Scotland and Zimbabwe was abandoned due to rain without a ball bowled.

    The West Indies team continues their World Cup journey with a highly anticipated match against Afghanistan on Sunday, scheduled for 2:20 AM Jamaican time.

  • MBU edge Tivoli Gardens to reclaim JPL lead

    MBU edge Tivoli Gardens to reclaim JPL lead

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Montego Bay United (MBU) has dramatically reclaimed pole position in the Jamaica Premier League following a narrow 1-0 triumph against Tivoli Gardens at the Edwards Seaga Sports Complex on Thursday. This crucial victory marks their third consecutive win, solidifying their championship credentials.

    The match’s solitary goal came from veteran striker Owayne Gordon, 34, who continued his impressive form by netting for the second successive game. Entering the fray as a 55th-minute substitute for the injured Jourdain Fletcher, Gordon made an immediate impact by expertly guiding the ball into the far left corner past goalkeeper Nicholas Clarke just seven minutes later. This decisive strike mirrored his previous match-winning contribution against Dunbeholden, where he also scored off the bench.

    The three points elevate Montego Bay United to 35 points, establishing a three-point cushion over closest rivals Racing United. This resurgence comes just a day after Racing United had momentarily drawn level on points following their emphatic 4-1 demolition of Treasure Beach.

    Thursday’s fixtures produced several other significant results. Portmore United spectacularly ended a five-match winless streak by overwhelming bottom-placed Spanish Town Police 4-0. Clayton Peck was the standout performer, opening the scoring in the 47th minute before converting a penalty just four minutes later. substitutes Marques Reid and Ronaldo Robinson completed the rout with late goals.

    Elsewhere, Chapelton Maroons delivered a commanding 3-0 performance against Arnett Gardens, exacting revenge for their first-round defeat. Robino Gordon, Damoi Whitfield, and Sean Leighton found the net, propelling Maroons to sixth position on goal difference ahead of Tivoli Gardens, with both teams tied on 22 points.

    The day’s action concluded with a dramatic late equalizer as Waterhouse FC’s Colorado Murray denied Harbour View a much-needed victory. Rohan Brown’s 54th-minute strike appeared to have secured the win for Harbour View until Murray’s 90th-minute intervention forced a 1-1 draw.

    These results have significantly intensified the title race while reshaping the mid-table standings with several games remaining in the season.

  • Red Force Divas fall to Barbados in T20 Blaze opener

    Red Force Divas fall to Barbados in T20 Blaze opener

    In a dramatic opening match of the 2026 Cricket West Indies T20 Blaze tournament, the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force Divas suffered a narrow three-wicket defeat against Barbados at Arnos Vale Playing Field in St. Vincent on January 13. The low-scoring thriller culminated with Barbados reaching their target of 98 runs with nine deliveries remaining, despite a formidable bowling performance from TT’s spin attack.

    The TT women’s batting lineup struggled throughout their innings, managing just 97 runs for the loss of five wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Veteran batter Britney Cooper provided stability with an unbeaten 33 runs from 36 deliveries, while captain Karishma Ramharack contributed 21 not out from 23 balls. Barbados opening bowler Naijanni Cumberbatch emerged as the bowling standout with impressive figures of 2/18.

    Barbados faced early pressure when TT leg-spinner Brianna Harricharan delivered a spectacular spell, claiming three wickets for just eight runs and reducing the Bajans to 68/6 by the 15th over. The match seemed poised for a TT victory until all-rounder Shamilia Connell displayed remarkable composure under pressure. Known primarily for her bowling, Connell smashed 16 not out from just ten deliveries, including the match-winning boundary off medium-pacer Amrita Ramtahal that sealed the victory.

    The tournament opener sets the stage for an competitive series, with TT scheduled to face Windwards in their second match on January 15. In other opening day results, Guyana secured a seven-run victory against Windwards in another low-scoring affair, while Leewards Islands claimed a nine-run win over Jamaica.

  • All-School team off to Florida for CASA Classic

    All-School team off to Florida for CASA Classic

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A select contingent of Jamaica’s most promising young football talent has departed for the United States to compete on the international stage. The 20-member Jamaica All-School team commenced their journey on Thursday, setting their sights on the prestigious 2026 Caribbean Americas Soccer Association (CASA) Youth Classic held in Lauderhill, Florida.

    The squad enters a competitive group stage where they must navigate matches against formidable opponents Tekkerz and ESP to secure advancement to the semi-final round. The tournament features a strong field of competitors, including teams Plantation, Rush, and the CASA All Stars, with the championship final scheduled for Sunday.

    Team composition highlights the depth of Jamaica’s schoolboy football system, drawing heavily from this season’s top performers. The roster includes seven representatives from daCosta Cup champion St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) and five players from all-island title holder Excelsior High, which claimed a 2-0 victory over STETHS in the decisive Olivier Shield final.

    Further strengthening the squad are three players from Jamaica College, two from Glenmuir High, and single representatives from Clarendon College, Eltham High, and St Catherine High, creating a balanced and talented national selection.

    The team’s campaign begins Friday at Lauderhill Sports Park with an opening match against Tekkerz, followed by a crucial encounter with ESP. These performances will be critically observed by professional scouts and college coaches attending the tournament, offering players potential pathways to higher-level competition.

    The full Jamaica All-School roster:
    – Jamari Gordon (Excelsior High)
    – Johnoi Steadman (STETHS)
    – Dantay Hewitt (STETHS)
    – Conroy Nicely (Glenmuir High)
    – Anthony Reid (Clarendon College)
    – Dujoni Thompson (Jamaica College)
    – Dontae Logan (Jamaica College)
    – Deandre Barnett (STETHS)
    – Dunsting Cogen (Glenmuir High)
    – Santana Headley (Eltham High)
    – Jabari Howell (Jamaica College)
    – Jade Lynch (STETHS)
    – Justin McPherson (STETHS)
    – Damarley Williams (Excelsior High)
    – Kahieem Lewis (STETHS)
    – Kivann Salmon (Excelsior High)
    – Kimarly Scott (Excelsior High)
    – Shemmar Stewart (STETHS)
    – Aldeano Walters (Excelsior High)
    – Kadean Young (St Catherine High)