The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership is heating up as Naparima College delivered a crucial 2-0 victory against league leaders St Benedict’s College on November 3. The match, held at Lewis Street in San Fernando, saw Naparima climb to second place in the standings, keeping their title aspirations alive. Strikers Jabari Rodriguez and Riquelme Phillips were the heroes of the day, scoring quick-fire goals in the 65th and 67th minutes, respectively. The win not only ended St Benedict’s impressive run of form but also tightened the race at the top of the 16-team table. Naparima now boasts two games in hand, making their title chase even more compelling. The game started cautiously, with both teams failing to capitalize on chances in the first half. However, Naparima emerged as a transformed side after the break, showcasing relentless attacking pressure. Phillips, despite missing an earlier opportunity, redeemed himself by capitalizing on a defensive error to score the second goal. St Benedict’s struggled to break through Naparima’s solid defense, with their attempts consistently thwarted. In another match, Malick Secondary School secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over St Anthony’s College, thanks to Jahda Riley’s match-winning strike in extra time. The SSFL premiership continues to deliver thrilling encounters as teams vie for the coveted title.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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TTDF staff sergeant appeals High Court ruling on denied promotion
A legal dispute involving a Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) staff sergeant has escalated to the Court of Appeal, following a 2023 High Court ruling that dismissed his challenge against the Chief of Defence Staff’s (CDS) decision to block his promotion. Staff Sergeant Russell Reyes contends that Justice Nadia Kangaloo erred in her judgment, arguing that the CDS overstepped legal boundaries by rejecting a recommendation for his promotion to Warrant Officer Class II. Reyes maintains that the disciplinary infraction cited against him was a “spent” conviction and should not have influenced the decision, as it was no longer part of his service record under military law. He also highlighted an unreasonable delay in addressing the disciplinary matter, which further complicated his case. Reyes first challenged the CDS’s decision in 2022, filing a judicial review application with a certificate of urgency, as he was nearing his mandatory retirement date of January 25, 2023. Had he succeeded, he would have remained in the Defence Force until 2026. However, Justice Kangaloo ruled in October 2023 that Reyes was still under probation when his disciplinary reprimand expired, rendering him ineligible for promotion. She also affirmed that the CDS acted within his authority to deny the promotion in the operational interest of the TTDF. In his appeal, Reyes argued that the judge miscalculated key dates and misinterpreted the CDS’s authority under the Defence Act. He emphasized that his severe reprimand, imposed in March 2021, was “spent” by November 2021, months before his promotion recommendation in early 2022. Reyes is seeking to have the High Court’s ruling overturned, reinstatement to the rank of Warrant Officer Class II, or compensation for lost pay and benefits. His attorney, Arden Williams, argued that the CDS unlawfully intervened in the promotion process, which is an administrative function under the Defence Force Act. Williams also questioned whether the CDS was acting as the designated officer for the Defence Council, which oversees the TTDF’s command, administration, and discipline. The Appeal Court judges have requested additional submissions on the presumption of regularity regarding the CDS’s actions, with a ruling expected after further consideration.
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Franklyn Seechan cops masters crown at Trinbago Youth Masters table tennis tourney
The National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua witnessed an exhilarating display of skill and determination as Harvard’s Franklyn Seechan emerged victorious in the masters division of the Trinbago Youth Masters table tennis tournament. The two-day event, held over the weekend, showcased intense competition across various age categories, with Seechan’s performance standing out as a highlight. In a gripping final against Powergen’s Anil Ramlakhan, Seechan clinched the title with a commanding 11-8, 13-11, 11-3 victory, demonstrating both resilience and precision. Earlier in the tournament, Seechan navigated a challenging path to the final, defeating formidable opponents such as Jerry Joseph, David Gopaul, and Satash Jodhan in the semi-finals, quarter-finals, and opening rounds, respectively. Meanwhile, Ramlakhan’s journey to the final included victories over Harnarine Moonasar, Ishwar Sookoonsingh, and Vasdev Roopnarine. The youth categories also saw remarkable performances, with Crusaders’ Malik Gopaul and QPCC’s Jordan Thong claiming top honors in the boys and girls singles, respectively. Other notable winners included Crusaders’ Nirav Basant and Mateo Mollineau in the boys U17 and U13 divisions, Blasters’ Elizabeth Rajah in the girls U13 singles, and Samir Radge Coomar in the boys U11 category. The tournament concluded with Central’s Ishta Ramdatt securing victory in the girls U9 singles, capping off a weekend of thrilling table tennis action.
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Families seek next steps after reporting fishermen missing
The families of two Trinidad and Tobago fishermen, Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo, are anxiously awaiting official confirmation regarding their loved ones’ fate after they were believed to have been killed in a US military strike on October 12. The strike targeted an alleged drug-transporting vessel in international waters. Relatives filed missing person reports on November 1 and 2, following advice from Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander. Joseph’s family held a memorial, claiming Venezuelan sources confirmed his presence on the destroyed vessel. Samaroo’s sister, Sallycar Korasingh, appealed to the Prime Minister for assistance, expressing uncertainty about his whereabouts but desperation for answers. Both families faced challenges in filing reports, with police citing jurisdictional issues due to the incident occurring in international waters. Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs Sean Sobers stated there was no evidence linking the fishermen to the strike, emphasizing it occurred outside Trinidad and Tobago’s waters. Despite repeated attempts, neither Alexander nor Minister of Defence Wayne Sturge responded to inquiries from Newsday regarding updates or coordination with US authorities.
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Towards future WI success
The West Indies cricket team secured a resounding 3-0 victory over Bangladesh in a T20 series on October 31, showcasing their dominance on the field. This clean sweep, achieved on Bangladeshi soil, marks a significant milestone for the Caribbean side, which had been languishing at ninth place in the international T20 rankings prior to the series. While the triumph is commendable, it underscores the long road ahead for West Indies cricket to regain its former glory. The series win, however, serves as a testament to the team’s potential and the importance of taking incremental steps toward improvement.
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Club Sando blank ‘Cale’ 2-0 in TTPFL
Club Sando, under the guidance of coach Angus-Eve, continued their impressive start to the 2025/26 TT Premier Football League with a decisive 2-0 triumph over Caledonia at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on November 1. This victory propelled Sando to the top of the league standings, level on points with Miscellaneous Police FC, though trailing slightly in goal difference. Veteran defender Elton John opened the scoring in the first half, while forward Keron Cornwall sealed the win with a clinical finish in the second half. The match also marked the return of winger Real Gill, who made a notable appearance as a second-half substitute. Despite Caledonia’s early attempts, including a missed opportunity by Jariel Arthur in the 13th minute, Sando’s defense remained resolute, with goalkeeper Teshorne Ragoo rarely tested. The win temporarily placed Sando in second place, pending the outcome of Prisons FC’s match against 1976 FC Phoenix. In another thrilling encounter, Defence Force was held to a 2-2 draw by FC Eagles, thanks to a last-minute goal by Dominic Douglas, ensuring Eagles secured their first point of the season.
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As cost of alcohol increases: Kinetic Mas invites people to bring their drinks
In a bold and unconventional move, Kinetic Mas, a prominent Carnival band, has decided to reduce the price of its costumes in response to increased alcohol prices. This decision comes after Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo announced higher excise duties on alcohol and tobacco during the 2025/26 budget presentation. Rather than passing the increased costs onto masqueraders, Kinetic Mas chose to embrace a nostalgic approach, reminiscent of the days when participants brought their own alcohol to Carnival celebrations. The band’s 2026 presentation, titled *You…The Masterpiece*, designed by artist Sheldon Warner, will proceed despite rising geopolitical tensions and economic challenges. Peter Samuel, the band’s leader, emphasized that their masqueraders are more focused on the artistry of the costumes than the alcohol experience. The band plans to maintain its medium size, hosting around 400 participants, and will offer discounts to early registrants. While the increased alcohol prices pose challenges, Samuel believes this could benefit local vendors and reshape the Carnival economy. However, geopolitical tensions, particularly between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela, cast uncertainty over Carnival 2026. Samuel remains hopeful, stating that dedicated masqueraders will still participate. If Carnival 2026 is canceled, Kinetic Mas plans to showcase its creations at other international Carnivals. The band’s decision reflects a commitment to preserving the cultural essence of Carnival while navigating economic and political complexities.
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Guy Beckles eager to open kinetic art museum
Guy Beckles, a 72-year-old kinetic artist, is on a mission to share his unique artistic vision with the world. Described by the late cultural icon Pat Bishop as “one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets,” Beckles has dedicated nearly five decades to mastering kinetic art, a medium defined by movement and creativity. His dream is to establish a kinetic art gallery in Trinidad, where he can showcase his work, mentor emerging artists, and collaborate across genres to incorporate movement into diverse art forms.
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Spooky fun at Miss Dixie’s Preschool, Daycare and Vacation Camp
Miss Dixie’s Preschool, Daycare and Vacation Camp in San Fernando embraced the spirit of Halloween with a vibrant dress-down day on October 31. The event, held at their Prince of Wales Street location, saw young students donning creative costumes, from the Grim Reaper to Wonder Woman, showcasing their imaginative flair. School principal Dixie-Ann McKenzie emphasized the importance of inclusivity, noting that while some parents may not traditionally celebrate Halloween, the school uses the occasion as an educational tool to foster growth, understanding, and acceptance among its students. Newsday photographer Innis Francis captured the festive moments, highlighting the joy and creativity of the children. Among the standout costumes were three-year-old Keenai Joseph as the Grim Reaper, Kenli Dottin as Lady Dracula, Crysta-Ange Cooper as Wednesday Addams, Rain Maillard as Wonder Woman, and Grace Leigh as a cheerful witch. The event underscored the school’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment where every child feels valued and celebrated.
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A myth about the old
The adage ‘once a man, twice a child’ often surfaces in discussions about aging, but the reality of caring for an elderly adult is far more complex than tending to a child. Dr. Taureef Mohammed, a physician from Trinidad and Tobago now practicing in Canada, shares his personal experiences and challenges in caring for his elderly father, shedding light on the often-overlooked difficulties of elder care.