Football – Page 2

Fun, movement, learning and discovery at 3rd annual Sports Festival celebrating Olympic Day

June 28, 2022 by Admin

Saturday, June 25 saw children and adults join the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) and member National Federations in the 3rd annual Sports Festival promoting the Olympic Day Movement at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds and Virgin Gorda on June 25.

“This year, Olympic Day set out to inspire people to get active and move together with purpose and we feel that the annual Sports Festival is an ideal way to bring the community out, discover a sport, learn about anti-doping and about making changes for a healthier lifestyle and hopefully forge new friendships,” said Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVIOC.

National Federations including the Virgin Islands Archery Association, BVI Athletics Association, BVI Basketball Federation, BVI Football Association, Virgin Islands Softball/Baseball Association, Boynes Taekwondo and Volleyball took part in the interactive event.

Special appearances included His Excellency the Governor Mr. John Rankin, softball athlete Mr. Kennard Dawson, former pro volleyball player Ms. Sharonda Pickering and the National Women’s 3×3 Basketball team players, Ms. Joy Victor, Ms. Shaliqua Fahie, Ms. Kiara Woodley, Ms. Jolene Bowens and Ms. Keithrece Smith. The 3×3 basketball team will be participating at the inaugural Caribbean Games this week in Guadeloupe and also will make up the historic team to represent the BVI at basketball at the Commonwealth Games for the first time this summer in Birmingham, UK.

Dr. Harlan Vanterpool representing the BVI National Anti-Doping Organisation was in attendance and spoke with athletes, coaches and parents on the relevance of the anti-doping regulations in athletes’ lives and in playing clean sports.

The BVI Public Health Promotions Unit represented by Ms. Sophia Brewely-Massiah, Ms. Harmonie Massiah, Ms. Patrice Maduro was a popular addition to this year’s event where people took part in a hands-on presentation to receive a personalised recommendation on creating balanced meals based on current level of activity and eating habits. The team also helped individuals to interpret and understand their body measurements and how to set realistic goals with a balance of food and exercise.

His Excellency Governor John Rankin shared words of encouragement and took part in some of the activities including the BVIAA obstacle course and Archery’s practice drill.

“I’m all in support of events and sports that will get our community active, no matter the age or ability and I’m very pleased to have had a go. If I can do it, so can you!” said H.E. Governor Rankin.

“I play basketball but I tried some of the other sports today and really enjoyed them,” said 6th grader Antoine Reilly. “I’m glad I came out. I had to ask my Dad to come back for me later than planned as I was having so much fun!”

In the Multipurpose complex a new basketball recruit was pitching her skills against the national squad. “I’m a softball player but now that the Industrial League has drawn to a close, I was looking to try another sport just to stay active. I’m an NBA fan and watch the games on TV so I decided to actually play the sport and, just a week in, I can say I’m really enjoying it,” said Ms. Shah.

“Thank you to all the National Federations who participated, to those who came out in support and to our drink sponsor Road Town Wholesale, distributor of Coca-Cola products Dasani water and Powerade for making this a fun event,” said Mr. Penn.

During the Sports Festival weekend, three National Federations hosted events. The BVI Squash Rackets Association hosted the highest caliber Professional Squash Association international tournament of the territory to date, BVI Rugby Football Union hosted a junior rugby game followed by a Senior 15s match while the BVI Cycling Federation conducted its UCI sanctioned National Time Trial and Road Race events.

Olympic Day was established in 1948 as an annual occasion where everyone everywhere can get together in their communities to celebrate the Olympic values of Respect, Excellence, Friendship and Peace while celebrating the Olympic Day pillars: Move. Learn. Discover.

See more photos on Facebook: https://bit.ly/sportsfestival2022

Filed Under: Archery, Athletics, Basketball, BVI Olympic Committee, Football, LTAD, Milton McLean, Olympic Day, Regional Anti-Doping Organization, Softball-Baseball, Taekwondo, Volleyball Tagged With: #moveforpeace, #StayActive, BVI Olympic Committee, BVI Sports Festival, Olympic Day

BVI secures 2nd draw against Cayman in CONCACAF Nations League

June 7, 2022 by Admin

GEORGETOWN, CAYMAN ISLANDS. JUNE 6th: Teamphoto of British Virgin Islands during the match between Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands as part of the 2022 Concacaf Nations League held at the Truman Bodden stadium in Georgetown, Cayman Islands. (PHOTO BY CESAR D PAULI/CONCACAF/STRAFFON IMAGES/MANDATORY CREDIT/EDITORIAL USER/NOT FOR SALE/NOT ARCHIVE)

A tremendous second half performance saw the BVI Men’s National Football team battle back from a goal down to secure another 1-1 draw against Cayman Islands in the CONCACAF Nations League Group C action on Monday in George Town, Cayman.

There was little to separate the teams at the Truman Bodden Stadium, with the same end result meaning both teams have a pair of points ahead of clashes with Puerto Rico.

Early chances were squandered by both teams as Jamie Wilson saw his curling free kick safely smothered by the Cayman’s keeper, Albertini Hollness. Then, the home side had an excellent chance in the 10th minute, with Corey Smith sending a left-footed ball to the back post that was headed on goal by Jabari Campbell. Daniel Gilford made a point blank save, deflecting the ball onto the post and Jerry Wiltshire was on hand to complete the clearance.

The hosts went ahead in the 23rd minute from the penalty spot, when Trey Ebanks was pulled down in the box by Christian Javier, and Jonah Ebanks stepped up to convert to the left of Gilford.

Whatever words BVI Coach, Chris Kiwomya used at halftime showed immediate effect though as just seconds after the second half resumed, Wilson scored the equaliser. Luka Chalwell found Tyler Forbes with a slide rule pass into space ahead of the forward and he avoided the lunging tackle of Josua Frederick to put in a cross to the far post. Chalwell had continued his run and rose to nod the ball back across goal where Wilson was waiting, and although the keeper blocked his initial header, he reacted quickest to fire home the loose ball.

“The tactical changes in the first half worked and so did the plan to make more passes in the second half,” said Kiwomya. “We changed things a bit at the break, scored the goal and could have won the game. However, it’s small strides and the players are beginning to understand more and more about what is expected. We were forced to make changes, bringing on the likes of Quelani (Nickie) and Jake (Forbes), but kept our shape which was pleasing.”

“It always means so much more to me when I score for the BVI,” beamed Wilson. “I love representing the nation and all the people in it. I hope that they are proud of the performance that the boys put in. We created better opportunities to score, and our defensive set up has been highly effective. We can be a very stubborn team to break down; we have some big characters in the team and the future on the international stage is moving in the right direction in my opinion… onto Puerto Rico!”

“What character!” exclaimed FA President, Mr. Andy Bickerton. “We had to come back from goal down and gave debuts to two more youngsters in Quelahni Nickie and Jake Forbes. Onwards and upwards we go!”

Cayman Islands’ Joshewa Frederick Charlery had a chance for a winner just five minutes from the final whistle, coming forward and getting his head on a free kick, but it went wide and the teams shared a point.

“We got off to a good start and stuck to the game plan,” said Technical Director, Mr. Dan Neville. “An individual error gifted them a goal early, but we stuck in their and got our reward in the second half. We had chances to win the game in the second period and in the end showed great resolve to hold on and have to be pleased with a point on the road.”

Both teams now turn their attention to group rival Puerto Rico, with Cayman Islands hosting El Huracan Azul on June 9 and the British Virgin Islands traveling to Puerto Rico for a June 12 contest.

GEORGETOWN, CAYMAN ISLANDS. JUNE 6th: Kymani Bowens #18 of Cayman Islands drives the ball during the match between Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands as part of the 2022 Concacaf Nations League held at the Truman Bodden stadium in Georgetown, Cayman Islands. (PHOTO BY CESAR D PAULI/CONCACAF/STRAFFON IMAGES/MANDATORY CREDIT/EDITORIAL USER/NOT FOR SALE/NOT ARCHIVE)

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, BVI National Men's Football Team, Concacaf Nations League, Team BVI

BVI Men’s National Football team ready for first home game since 2016, against the Cayman Islands on Friday at the A.O. Shirley Ground in the CONCACAF Nations’ League

June 2, 2022 by Admin

The hosts will be hoping that their second campaign yields more positive results than the first, which saw them finish bottom of the group despite some promising moments.

The Caymans, on the other hand, are eyeing promotion after narrowly missing out on League B last time around when they finished tied for first in their group but lost out to Barbados on goal differential.

Veteran Mark Ebanks has been banging them in for the Cayman Islands for over a decade and remains one of the top scoring threats on the team. He scored the goal in the Cayman Islands’ 1-1 draw with Bermuda during 2022 World Cup qualifying last year.

For the British Virgin Islands, most eyes will be on Tyler Forbes. Forbes impressed during the previous Nations’ League as a teenager, scoring three times and emerging as a young leader in the squad.

The two sides last met at the senior level during the first round of the 2005 Caribbean Cup, when the Cayman Islands edged a 1-0 victory.

Effectively the game sees the start of a new four-year cycle for the squad with many graduates of the BVI Football Association Youth Programs cementing their places and some making their debuts.

“It is a deliberate move and a policy of the BVIFA to introduce the youths to senior football,” said BVIFA president, Mr. Andy Bickerton. “The strategy has been to get our most promising youths overseas to not only play but gain education through study and the number of young players breaking through shows the idea has worked.”

Also, new Head Coach, Chris Kiwomya, will be in the dugout for his first competitive game since taking over the reins. “We have held camps during the buildup, and I am happy and confident with the composition of the squad. We are here to compete, play to our strengths, and how to win the game,” said Coach Kiwomya.

Kiwomya has been watching the younger players as well as the senior players and talking to all the local coaches to fully understand who can achieve what at this level.

“We have had to be careful with the players and the intensity of training, but we are taking each day at a time especially with games coming in a short time frame and assessing everyone before narrowing down to the final squad,” said Coach Kiwomya. “We must not get too far ahead of ourselves, it is a fresh start and there will be ups and downs, the players have to get the fans excited by their performance and over the next 18 months or so we can move forward, make progress and be a real force.”

After Friday, the squad heads off to the Cayman Islands for the return fixture on Monday, June 6 followed by a match against Puerto Rico on June 12.

Troy Caesar is also back as Captain having been unavailable for the more recent World Cup qualifiers. “We are here to compete, and it is great to see the camaraderie that flows throughout the players,” said Caesar. “Once we all listen and understand what the Coach wants us to do, then we will come out with a victory.”

Ikyjah Williams has already played at senior level, having starred for the U20’s and is now joined by many of his teammates from the tournament held in the Dominican Republic. “I’m excited for the game, I know we will compete, impress the Coach, and play to win!” said Williams.

Goalkeeper, Daniel Gilford has also been promoted to first choice between the sticks having been in and around the senior squad without getting a game. “Becoming first choice, I won’t let anyone down and have been working hard, like everyone said we are here to compete,” said Gilford.

“The BVIFA is really excited by being able to play home games again,” said Bickerton. “We are still working on the stadium at East End and once that is done there will be more games at home. For now, we are working with the Recreation Trust to host games, and are very thankful for their support, but playing home games is really important so the public can see the progress we are making.”

The game against Cayman Islands kicks off at 4pm on Friday 3rd June at the A.O. Shirley Ground. Adult tickets are just $10 and Children U12 just $5.

The full squad includes Mekhi Walters, Gilford, Ceasar, Jerry Wiltshire, Phil Nelson, Denvin Jones, Miguel Marshall, Justin Smith, Christian Javier, Giovanni Grant, Williams, Makimbo Demming, Quelani Nickie, T’Sharne Gallimore, Jamie Wilson, Liam Blok, Carlos Septus, Tyler Forbes, Luka Chalwell, Jake Forbes, Luca Reich, Levon Williams, Alejandro Santos, Tai Thomas, Gethin Jones.

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, BVI National Football Team, Concacaf Nations League, Team BVI

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay brings unity through community in the BVI – Full Report

May 11, 2022 by Admin

On May 3 and 4, the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in its capacity as the Commonwealth Games Association (BVICGA) hosted the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the Virgin Islands (UK). The Queen’s Baton toured communities on Tortola and Virgin Gorda heralding the upcoming Commonwealth Games which will be held in Birmingham, UK from July 28 to August 8, 2022.

The Queen’s Baton arrived from Dominica into the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport on Monday, May 2 and was presented by Ms. Korlita Hamilton of the Dominica CGA to Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVICGA.

The Welcome and Opening Ceremony on Tuesday, May 3 at the A. O. Shirley Recreation Games officially marked the start of Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI with remarks by His Excellency Governor John Rankin, the Honourable Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and Mr. Penn, and an explanation of the workings of the Queen’s Baton by Mr. Joe Chapman, Baton Manager and 4x Commonwealth Games squash player.

The ceremony started with the Althea Scatliffe Striders Drum Corps and the entrance of the Queen’s Baton brought in by past Commonwealth Games athletes to include Lindel “Chef” Hodge, Steve Augustine, Ralston “Grandfather” Henry, Tynelle Gumbs, Trevia Gumbs and Joe Chapman. It was followed by a programme of recitals and performances of cultural and heritage significance curated by Dr. Katherine Smith, Director of the Department of Culture and presented by Poet Laureate Dr. Richard Georges, President of the HLSCC; author and poet Miss. Anika Christopher, Birmingham 2022 QBR Creative Programme Awardee; Mr. Phil Aspinall, MBE, Operations Manager, Virgin Islands Search & Rescue; the Comfoo Dance Ensemble; Leonora Delville Primary School; and the Razor Blades.

The relay through Road Town was started by the BVI Athletics Association Carifta 2022 athletes and Honourable Kye Rymer, District 5 Representative. The route followed a heritage trail and Baton handover stops starting from the Sugarworks Museum (Batonbearer D’Nila Thomas, student Althea Scatliffe Primary School), to the J. R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens (Batonbearer Ms. Vanessa King, O’Neal Webster), to the Sunday Morning Well (Batonbearer Mr. David Thomas, Clarence Thomas Ltd), to the E. Walwyn Brewley Ball Park (Batonbearers V I Softball Baseball Association), to the Elmore Stoutt High School (Batonbearer Jelani Croal, Grade 12, ESHS) to H.M. Prison Museum (Batonbearer Mr. Matthew Cowman, Walkers (BVI) Limited), to Midtown Restaurant (Batonbearers Caribbean Insurance Ltd), to the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park (Batonbearers representatives of the BVI Bank Association), to the Waterfront Drive traffic lights (Batonbearers Coralisle Group), to Sir Olva Georges Plaza (Batonbearers Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd) to the Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly (Batonbearer, Mrs. Vicki Francis, Governor’s Office) to the Old Government House Museum. Information was shared on the history of the location at each of the heritage and museum sites.

The Queen’s Baton was driven to the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School where it was met with vigorous enthusiasm by the students, staff and faculty. The relay to the Manuel Reef Marina was led by Batonbearers Honourable Julian Fraser, District 3 Representative, Mr. Milton McClean, Youth Sports leader, and Jehu Adams, Grade 6, ETPS. Adams handed the Baton over to Royal BVI Yacht Club sailing federation youth sailor, William Sanders and Mr. Jamel Davies, Chairman of the Tortola Sloop Foundation who sailed the Baton to the beach at Nanny Cay where it was handed over to Mr. Miles Sutherland-Pilch, General Manager, Nanny Cay Resort and Marina.

The afternoon visit included a stop at Carrot Bay to recognise the Stoutt family of fishermen – father Albert and sons Zacchari and Andrew – who continue to supply the local community and restaurants with fish and lobster caught in the traditional and sustainable way of seine and line fishing and free diving.

The Queen’s Baton was then welcomed at the Leonora Delville Primary School joined by student and teacher representation from the Jost Van Dyke Primary School and celebrated with dance and a symbolic relay around the school field with Batonbearers Frank Chinnery (JVDPS).

Day 1 of the relay concluded with a visit to the coal pit at Capoon’s Bay where the pit owner, Mr. Palett explained the process for preparing, generating and harvesting charcoal in the traditional way.

An evening reception hosted by the Governor was attended by the Carifta 2022 athletes, Commonwealth Games athletes and representatives of the National Federations.

The second and final day of the Queen’s Baton Relay saw the Queen’s Baton and accompanying delegation transported to Virgin Gorda courtesy of the Royal Virgin Islands Marine Police and H.M. Customs. The visit included a warm welcome reception organised by the Primary and Secondary schools of the Bregado Flax Education Center with remarks by Secondary Principal Hilroy George, Honourable Shereen Flax-Charles, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, District 9 Representative, and Mr. Penn. Presentations were performed by the Woodwind Ensemble, the BEFC Trio and the BFEC Lions and Arabians Cheerleaders.

A visit to the school’s Edible Garden of the Green Sprouts Eco Club managed by Green and Clean VI was followed by a relay led by Batonbearers, brothers Mekhi Water (Grade 12) and Audony Gangoo (Grade 5) from the school to the Green VI Eco Park where all guests were given a tour and overview of the work undertaken at the site by Green VI in association with Green VI Bug Out and which speak to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The penultimate leg of the Queen’s Baton Relay took a route through East End and Long Look with heritage sites and handover stops starting at the Chapel Hill Methodist Church with a brief history shared by Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewely before Batonbearer Dean Greenaway led the relay to Penn’s Landing handing over to Honourable Marlon Penn, District 8 Representative.

From there the Queen’s Baton was run to the Willard Wheatley Primary School (Batonbearer Jacobi David) to the East End Police Station (Batonbearer Mrs. Sylvia Forbes) to the Francis Lettsome Primary School (Batonbearer Damir Dobson) to the Long Look Methodist Church and the Stickett where Batonbearer Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye, Director Department of Youth Affairs and Sports led the relay to the Long Look Tennis and Education Center to hand over to the youth and senior Cycling Federation members who cycled the Queen’s Baton to the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College via YEP.

At the HLSCC, the Baton was handed over to Ms. Winnette Lawrence of the V I Archery Association who passed it on to Dr. Richard Georges, President of the HLSCC who handed over to the HLSCC Volleyball team. The Baton was then jogged across to the Maritime Museum by students of the Marine Studies before a handover to Phillipe Leroy, representing the BVI Triathlon Federation, who, followed by others, cycled the Queen’s Baton on the final leg of the relay which culminated at Brandywine Bay beach.

The Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI was brought to a close when members of the BVI Rugby Federation received the Baton followed by handovers to the BVI Football Association and the VI Volleyball Association. Each of the three National Federations showcased their sports in demo games on the beach with a traditional-rules, tug-of-war refereed by Mr. Elmore Stoutt ending the sports before closing remarks by Mr. Penn, President of the BVICGA. The grand finale was a cultural presentation speaking to national heritage and the VI’s history and maritime connections. Attendees were entertained and educated by songs, dances and story-telling performed by the Zion Sounds, Ms. Bria Smith, the Comfoo Dance Ensemble, the Heritage Dancers, Mrs. Lettsome and Miss Rosie Smith.

The key stakeholders involved in the planning and hosting of events included the Governor’s Office, the Premier’s Office, the Ministry of Education, Culture Youth Affairs, Agriculture and Fisheries, the Departments of Culture, Education, and Youth Affairs and Sports, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and the BVI Tourist Board.

Event sponsors include the BVI Banking Association – Banco Popular, Bank of Asia, CIBC FirstCaribbean, FirstBank, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Republic Bank, and VP Bank – Caribbean Insurance Ltd, Clarence Thomas Ltd, Coralisle Insurance (BVI) Ltd, O’Neal Webster, Road Town Wholesale Trading Ltd, Walkers, Harneys and JOMA Properties.

National Federations, schools, and community and social groups supported the event as volunteers and participants in the relays through the districts.

The BVICGA has hosted four Queen’s Baton Relays since 2005, the last one being in 2017 ahead of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games in Australia where Kyron McMaster made history by winning the territory’s first Commonwealth Games medal with a gold in the 400m hurdles.

The VI is expecting to take its largest contingent yet to the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games with 19 athletes representing the territory in 5 sports – a first for the nation. 3×3 Basketball (Women’s Team) and Cycling will make their debut at a Commonwealth Games as the teams join athletes from track and field, squash and swimming.

The 16th official Queen’s Baton Relay touring through 72 Commonwealth nations and Overseas Territories will cover a distance of 140,000 kilometres over 269 days, traveling to Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, the Caribbean and the Americas, before embarking on the final stretch of its journey across England for 25 days.

The Queen’s Baton Relay will complete its journey at the Opening Ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on 28 July 2022. This is a traditional and fundamental part of the Games and the Opening Ceremony, as the final Batonbearer will pass the Baton back to The Queen. The Queen’s message to the Commonwealth will then be removed from the Baton and read aloud, marking the official start of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Photos of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay touring the BVI can be seen on the BVIOC’s Facebook page.

Student Batonbearers:

Althea Scatliffe School (ASPS), Road Town, Tortola
D’Niya Thomas (Handover at the Sugarworks Museum, Day 1)
D’Niya has represented for several years for Inter-Primary Spors. She has been the Victrix for Inter-House and Inter-Primary as well.

Elmore Stoutt High School, Road Town, Tortola (Day 1)
Jelani Croal – Grade 12
Jelani was chosen because he is one of ESHS’ top athletes during the Inter-House competition and who went on to do very well at Carifta 2022

Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, Sea Cow’s Bay, Tortola (Day 1)
Jehu Adams – Grade 6
Jehu is a hard-working, dedicated, disciplined and helpful young man who is the top Grade Six student for the Advent and Trinity terms of the 2021-2022 school year. Along with his classmates, he is actively involved in the process of planting and maintaining the crops in the school’s garden. He is also very much involved in anything that would enhance the lives of his classmate. Jehu is often involved in peer tutoring within the classroom. He has specifically been assigned to assist and mentor one of the ESL students. He assists him with in-class tasks, projects and homework whenever necessary.
Additionally, during the Lent term, Grade Six had started a recycling project. Jehu was actively involved in collecting, sorting and recording the data for the materials. He along with another student took the materials to the school’s recycling bins.
Jehu has proudly and effectively represented his school at various competitions and other extracurricular activities. Presently, he and another student are preparing to represent the school at the national spelling bee competition. Jehu’s self-less attitude and commitment to learning are admirable and examples to his peers.

Leonora Delville Primary School, Capoon’s Bay, Tortola (Day 1)
Mijael Jennings (LDPS)
Kh’mahni Anthony (LDPS)
Frank Chinnery (Jost Van Dyke Primary School) – selected because he is an excellent athlete and the perfect representative for an event such as the Queen’s Baton Relay.

Bregado Flax Education Center, Virgin Gorda (Day 2)
BFEC Senior Division
Mekhi Water – Senior – Class of 2022
Mekhi is an all-round athlete excelling in Volleyball (BFEC) who also is the Football national U20 goalkeeper and of the VG United football club. He also is a Track and Field division winner. He is a diligent and committed student of the BFEC Senior School.

BFEC Primary Division
Audony Gangoo – Grade 5
Audony is one who we call a true Lion Ambassador. He puts his best foot forward in whatever he does. He is from a single parent home with 4 other siblings. This does not deter him from excelling in school, in sports and being one of our school ambassadors. Audony recently participated in the Inter-Primary Sports and ran in the 13+ category. Despite being pushed up to the older level, he persevered and came 2nd and 3rd in his races. He was determined to do his very best.

Currently, he is one of the top students in Grade 5, and he ensures that he continues is a positive influence for his peers.

Willard Wheatley Primary School, East End, Tortola (Day 2)
Jacobi David – Grade 6
Jacobi has grown into a positive student. He is a good athlete and displays good sportsmanship. He continues to represent the school well in sports and never refuses when he is asked to do something. He is a team player and as this is his final year at WWPS, we feel he deserves the honour of carrying the Baton.

Francis Lettsome Primary School, Greenland, Tortola (Day 2)
Damir Dobson – Grade 6
Damir is an enthusiastic 13-year-old, who excels in sports as one of his extracurricular endeavours. Damir is son to Earle Dobson and Glasmie Williamson. He represents his school at sporting events, and has been a top athlete, and proud Wildcat of FLPS, in Greenland, Tortola. Damir is the Francis Lettsome Primary School Wildcats’ 2022 Queen’s Relay Baton Bearer, because of his keen spirit, respectfulness, dedication to learning, willingness to help, community service, and pride in representing his school.

Filed Under: Archery, Athletics, Basketball, Birmingham 2022, BVI Commonwealth Games Association, Commonwealth Games, Cycling, Football, Joe Chapman, Kyron McMaster, Milton McLean, Rugby, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Triathlon, Volleyball Tagged With: #QBR2022, Birmingham 2022, Birmingham 2022 Queen's Baton Relay, Queen's Baton Relay, Queen's Baton Relay in the BVI

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay brings unity through community

May 11, 2022 by Admin

Scenes of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the communities on Tortola and Virgin Gorda

The BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC) in its capacity as the Commonwealth Games Association (BVICGA) hosted the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the Virgin Islands (UK) on Tuesday, May 3 and Wednesday, May 4.

The two-day event brought a perceptible positive energy at a time of political uncertainty in the territory. With a focus on celebrating culture, untold stories, heritage and traditions as well as the road to a sustainable-lifestyle future, the BVICGA worked closely with the Department of Culture and the Department of Education, Green VI and members of the community to deliver an engaging and elevating Queen’s Baton Relay as it toured communities on Tortola and Virgin Gorda.

“The Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI delivered a most unexpected and welcome relief from troubled times during the two days that it toured our territory,” said Mr. Ephraim Penn, President pf the BVICGA. “The high energy and enthusiasm with which the Queen’s Baton was received by all who participated in the events were uplifting and encouraging as, once again, we see the power of sports in bringing the community together in shared hope. This did not go unnoticed by the Birmingham 2022 Global QBR organisers in the UK who shared with us that this was one of their favourite Queen’s Baton Relays!”

The Queen’s Baton arrived into the territory from Dominica on May 2 ahead of the official welcome and opening ceremony at the A.O. Shirley Recreation Grounds on May 3 when the Baton made its entrance in the hands of some of the BVI’s past Commonwealth Games athletes to include Lindel “Chef” Hodge, Steve Augustine, Ralston “Grandfather” Henry, Tynelle Gumbs, Trevia Gumbs and Joe Chapman.

Remarks by H.E. Governor John Rankin, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley and Mr. Ephraim Penn, President of the BVICGA and an explanation of the workings of the Queen’s Baton by Mr. Joe Chapman, Baton Manager and 4x Commonwealth Games squash player, were part of a programme featuring recitals and performances of cultural and heritage significance curated by Dr. Katherine Smith, Director of the Department of Culture and presented by Poet Laureate Dr. Richard Georges, author and poet Miss. Anika Christopher, Mr. Phil Aspinall, MBE, the Comfoo Dance Ensemble, Leonora Delville Primary School, and the Razor Blades.

The relay legs through Road Town included heritage and museum sites such as the Sugarworks Museum, J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens, the Sunday Morning Well, H.M. Prison Museum, Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, Sir Olva Georges Plaza and Old Government House Museum. Information was shared on the history of the location at each of the sites.

The Queen’s Baton was driven to the Ebenezer Thomas Primary School, Sea Cow’s Bay from where it was run to Manuel Reef Marina and sailed aboard a Traditional Tortola Sloop and a Feva of the Royal BVI Yacht Club Sailing Federation youth racing fleet to the beach at Nanny Cay Resort and Marina.

An afternoon stop at Carrot Bay included a visit with the fishing family of Mr. Albert Stoutt and his sons Zacchari and Andrew, who continue to supply the local community and restaurants with fish and lobster caught in the traditional and sustainable way of seine and line fishing and free diving. All present were treated to an impromptu scratch band performance at the North Shore Shell Museum owned by Mr. Egbert “Shellman” Donovan.

The Queen’s Baton was welcomed by students, staff and faculty at the Leonora Delville Primary School and representatives from the Jost Van Dyke Primary School before the Day 1 relay ended with a visit to the coal pit at Capoon’s Bay where pit owner, Mr. Palett explained the process for preparing, generating and harvesting charcoal in the traditional way.

An evening reception hosted by the Governor was attended by the Carifta 2022 athletes, Commonwealth Games athletes and representatives of the National Federations.

On the morning of May 4, the Queen’s Baton and delegation arrived at the Bregado Flax Education Center in Virgin Gorda for a warm reception programme executed by the Primary and Secondary divisions with remarks by Principal Hilroy George, Hon. Shereen Flax-Charles, Representative at Large, and Hon. Vincent Wheatley, District 9 Representative and Mr. Penn.

A visit to the school’s Green Sprouts Edible Garden was followed by a relay to the Green VI Eco Park for a tour and overview of the work undertaken at the site by Green VI in association with Green VI Bug Out and which speak to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The afternoon leg through East End and Long Look included Baton handover spots at national heritage sites of the Chapel Hill Methodist Church, the Long Look Methodist Church and the Stickett.

The Queen’s Baton Relay in the BVI was brought to a close with a sports showcase and a traditional-rules, tug-of-war refereed by Mr. Elmore Stoutt. The cultural finale entertained and educated through songs, dances and story-telling that spoke to national heritage and the VI’s history and maritime connections performed by the Zion Sounds, Ms. Bria Smith, the Comfoo Dance Ensemble, the Heritage Dancers, Mrs. Valerie Lettsome and Miss Rosie Smith.

The next stop for the Queen’s Baton Relay was St Kitts and Nevis as it makes its way back to the UK for the Opening Ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games on July 28.

National Federations, schools, and community and social groups supported the event as volunteers and participants in the relays through the districts.

The Queen’s Baton Relay will complete its journey at the Opening Ceremony – a traditional and fundamental part of the Games as the final Batonbearer passes the Baton back to The Queen or her representative. The Queen’s message to the Commonwealth will then be removed from the Baton and read aloud, marking the official start of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Read the full report.

Photos of the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay touring the BVI can be seen on the BVIOC’s Facebook page.

Filed Under: Archery, Athletics, Basketball, Birmingham 2022, BVI Commonwealth Games Association, Commonwealth Games, Cycling, Football, Joe Chapman, Rugby, Sailing, Softball-Baseball, Squash, Volleyball

Women’s National Football team set to play in Concacaf W Qualifiers against SVG and Haiti

April 4, 2022 by Admin

BVI national player Britney Peters at the goal mouth in the CONCACF World Cup qualifier match against Honduras, February 22, 2022
*PHOTO: BVIFA*

In another historic moment for BVI Women’s Football, the players continue their adventure in the World Cup with games this coming week against St Vincent and the Grenadines and Haiti in the Concacaf W Qualifiers.

Even more momentous is that the game against Haiti will be played on the A.O. Shirley Ground on April 9th with a 4pm kick off making it the first time a Women’s International game will have taken place in the Territory since 2014. That occasion was to mark the 40th Anniversary of the BVI Football Association being affiliated to FIFA, the World Governing body for Football and organizers of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, to be staged in New Zealand and Australia.

While a place on the plane to the “main event” is a dream for the current crop of players, their reality and focus is on an anticipated exciting game to be played at the Arnos Vale Stadium in St Vincent and the Grenadines against the Vincy Heat, on April 6th, with a 3.00pm kick off.

Tickets for the Haiti game are still available from the BVIFA office who also are offering a special deal for fans from Virgin Gorda with a round trip ferry crossing on Speedys included in the match ticket price.

Adults are $10 and children U12 just 5$ (VG Special is $30 adults and $20 U12’s).

The squad for the SVG leg has been confirmed as follows:

Ariel Mohamed, captain (Wolues FC), Zariya Smith vice-captain (Panthers FC), Kara Lewis (Panthers FC), Lil-Makeda Fahie (Avengers FC), Gabrielle Jermyn (Wolues FC), Jasmine Cox (Holland FC), Keeley Brickwood (Holland FC), Alicia King (DeMontford Uni.), Shevonne Vanterpool (Avengers FC), Zina Cheikh (Oakham Utd), Olivia Messum (DeMontford Uni), Chandni Wattley (Panthers FC), Britney Peters (Avengers FC), Darci Reich (Wolues FC), Morgan Creque (Panthers FC), Zolita Bamford (Wolues FC), Laverne Fahie (Avengers FC), Kiara Woodley (Wolues FC), Jackisha Rigobert (VG Utd) and Kimberly Smith (Wolues FC).

Head Coach is Wayne Phillip, Assistant Coach is Jeffrey Demming, Manager is Linda Magliore and Team Physio is Sheldon Harry.

“Training has been going excellent,” commented Phillips. “The girls are full of confidence and looking forward to the challenge. I am sure they will give a good account of themselves, and we are going out there to do well. We cannot afford to be over confidant but definitely want to play them on the front foot. In practice games the defense has looked more organized, and at the other end we have been scoring goals!”

The BVIFA is encouraging the public to show support for the Women’s National Team by attending their game against Haiti at the A.O. Shirley Ground which is expected to be well attended and full of excitement.

Contact the BVIFA by telephone on (284) 494-5655 for tickets.

About the Concafaf W Qualifiers*

The Concacaf W Qualifiers is the preliminary round of the 2022 Concacaf W Championship which will serve as the Confederation’s Qualifier to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 and the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games.

The 30 Concacaf Member Associations participating, all ranked 3 and below in the FIFA Women’s Ranking as of July 2021, have been divided into six groups of five teams each as follows:

Group A: Mexico, Puerto Rico, Suriname, Antigua and Barbuda and Anguilla
Group B: Costa Rica, Guatemala, Saint Kitts and Nevis, US Virgin Islands, and Curacao
Group C: Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Bermuda, Grenada and Cayman Islands
Group D: Panama, El Salvador, Barbados, Belize and Aruba
Group E: Haiti, Cuba, Honduras, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and British Virgin Islands
Group F: Trinidad & Tobago, Guyana, Nicaragua, Dominica and Turks and Caicos Islands

After group stage play, where each nation will play two matches at home and two matches away, the top finisher in each of the groups – for a total of six teams – will advance to the Concacaf W Championship, joining the top two ranked Concacaf nations (USA and Canada) who have received a bye straight to the W Championship.

Additionally, both Group Stage third place finishers will advance to a FIFA Women’s World Cup intercontinental play-off. At the conclusion of the event, the winning nation will guarantee its place in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games Women’s Football Tournament and the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup.

The runner-up and the third place will also progress to a Concacaf Olympic play-in to be played in September of 2023. The winner of the play-in will also guarantee their place in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games and the 2024 W Gold Cup.

*Information source: Concacaf.com

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, National Women's Football Team

BVIFA Executive attend CONCACAF workshop to advance football development

March 22, 2022 by Admin

Members of the BVI Football Association Executive Committee spent the weekend of March 12 – 13 in a series of workshops with mentors from CONCACAF, the regional governing body, with the aim of taking the organization to the next level.

The two-day workshop, facilitated by Mr. Howard McIntosh, One CONCACAF and Caribbean Projects Manager and Mr. Horace Reid, Caribbean Director, Member Association Affairs, had a main theme and aim of exposing the newly named BVIFA Executive Council to best practices in good governance to improve the overall administration of the game and to address the key roles and responsibilities of the Council.

The BVIFA also had to present its strategic plan, which was approved by the facilitators, discuss its current organizational structure, roles and responsibilities within the organisation, and identify key positions that need to be filled.

“The sessions were very productive,” commented 1st Vice-President, Mr. Avenel “Clarky” Morton. “The gist was that they were happy with where we have reached so far and have empowered us to reach new heights as a Council. This means as the elected officials, we have a responsibility to not be so involved day to day, but make sure the people we put in place are accountable and doing their jobs.”

The Executive Council is similar to a Board of Directors in a company and, according to Morton, it takes football well and truly into the realms of operating just like a successful business.

BVIFA Treasurer Mr. Kenrick Grant echoed the thoughts of his VP: “It was very timely in preparing us to be a body with the right attitude, understanding and knowledge needed for establishing a successful business where we can create leaders. We have already been making necessary changes to transform the organization from the game of football to the business of football and its important that these changes resonate throughout the organisation,” said Grant.

Grant also pointed out that, with the support of FIFA and CONCACAF, the BVIFA has already been making strides to be fully professionalised with a clear separation of the legislative, executive, judiciary and operational functions.

Clubs and National teams have also benefited from the new era and, following implementation of the conclusions from the workshops, those benefits will only continue to take football forward.

Some of the more immediate steps to be taken include the creation of a crisis management committee; development of a communication strategy for all clubs, members, stakeholders and supporters; a review of the player registration process; and a separation of powers by the Council members so they no longer are involved in the various standing committees and the creation of standard operating policy and procedure manuals for the various functions of the BVIFA.

BVIFA President Mr. Andy Bickerton was delighted to report, “the workshop was another steppingstone in the development of football in the islands as we look to match the professionalism of our players and coaches with that of our administration.”

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, CONCACAF

BVIFA sends members of Men’s National Team to UK training camp

January 24, 2022 by Admin

Members of BVI Men’s National Football Team attend training camp at Bisham Abbey, UK. *Photos: BVIFA*

The BVI Football Association is taking full advantage of the latest FIFA International Football window by holding a training camp at Bisham Abbey, England under the watchful eyes of Head Coach, Chris Kiwomya.

Despite COVID-19 continuing to cause travel and availability issues for the BVI, a strong squad has been assembled at the iconic base in Bisham Abbey, in the heart of Buckinghamshire, UK for the likes of international teams and top flight clubs ahead of games and Cup Finals at Wembley as well as many other elite sports teams.

“The camp is another step in the development of the Men’s National Team as we work towards the Concacaf Nations League which commences in June,” noted BVIFA President, Mr. Andy Bickerton. “It provides another opportunity for our young players to learn from our National Coach, Chris Kiwomya, and understanding the patterns of play he is introducing plus his personal expectations of them.”

Apart from the week long training camp, a highlight will be a friendly game against Anguilla on Thursday 27th January at Bisham Abbey. Both nations have numerous players playing football across Europe at semi pro and full professional levels.

Players attending the training camp include:

Goalkeepers – Philip Jules and Will Butler
Defenders – Christian Xavier, Jerry Wiltshire, Vidal Hendrikson, Miguel Marshall, Ikyjah Williams
Malakai Stanners
Midfielders – Carlos Septus, Luka Chalwell, Jaimie Wilson, T’Sharne Gallimore
Forwards – Josh Bertie, Tyler Forbes, Jake Forbes, Kevin Fisher

Several of the upcoming players in the BVI were selected but unavailable this time around including Sheldon Toney, Kalani, Denvin Jones, Justin Smith, Luca Reich, Liam Blok, Alejandro Santos, Leo Forte and Gethin Jones.

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, BVIFA

The future looks bright for youth football

November 24, 2021 by Admin

Keallun Louise – scorer for One Caribbean in their 3-0 win over VG Utd in U13 National League match

The focus last weekend for the BVI Football Association was very much on the future, as not only was a Mini Youth League launched, but also the U13 National League resumed with two exciting matches.

First up on Saturday, over one hundred youngsters gathered on the field at East End / Long Look for the start of the Mini Youth Leagues with youngsters from Virgin Gorda and other sister islands set to join in from next week. The warm up event indicates a future that is definitely bright for football and for the upcoming BDO School Leagues.

In the U13 National League, One Caribbean FC had a 3-0 victory against VG Utd, courtesy of a double strike from Keallun Louise and an own goal.

The Sugar Boys FC then lost their 100% record, losing 1-7 to Panthers FC, who, with the win, closed the gap on the Sugar Boys at the top of the standings to just one point.

Kamauri Fenton and Myles Penn both scored twice, whilst Tiondre Martin, Christian Orlando and Mario Carter also found the back of the net.

Liam Min scored the consolation goal for the Sugar Boys.

“To be honest, I’m really proud of the boys and want to keep this Panthers team together as they are definitely the future of BVI football,” said Coach Wayne Phillip.

Phillip went on to explain how the game had kept the crowd on the edge of their seats as players from both teams showed their talents. “It was a brilliant game! My team stuck to the plan and executed exactly what I wanted from them. They passed the ball around without rushing, catching the Sugar Boys out of position, and then attacking with full force.”

Despite the margin of victory, Phillip was also quick to commend the coach, management, and players of the Sugar Boys. “They have a good team, but honestly, with my players running at them and pressing, they just couldn’t get into the game at all.”

The two women’s games that were scheduled both ended in forfeit wins for the Avengers FC and Wolues FC as the Panthers FC and VG Utd were unable to field teams.

In the Men’s National League, Lion Heart FC climbed to the top of the standings with a 6-1 drubbing of Old Madrid FC as Daveian Barnum netted four goals and both Dwayne Smith along with Michael Butt scored once.

Nano Ottley scored for Old Madrid.

In the other game played, One Caribbean got their first win of the season, seeing off One Love Utd by the odd goal in five as both teams were reduced to ten men before Errol Van der Muelen netted the winner in the 6th minute of added time at the end of the game, to make it 3-2.

Brent Bowman and Zeron Samuel put One Love 2-0 up inside the first 25 minutes, but One Love was reduced to a team of ten in the 34th minute when Carlos Septus made it 2-1 from the penalty spot in the 38th minute. Adrian Palladin equalized in the 61st minute, One Caribbean then saw one of their players sent off for a second bookable offense right at the death, but as the game seemed destined for a draw, up popped Van Der Muelen to seal the win.

Filed Under: Football, Uncategorized Tagged With: BVI Football Association, Mini youth football league, U13 National Football League

BVI U20 Squad close out CONCACAF Championship with back-to-back victories for 3rd place finish

November 14, 2021 by Admin

Jake Forbes’ 38th minute penalty secured back-to-back victories for the BVI to close out the CONCACAF U20 Championship in fine style and a third-place finish in Group A.

The final day of the Tournament, hosted by the Dominican Republic, began with the boys closing out in strong fashion with a 1-0 win over Dominica, to take third place in Group A, just two days after picking up their first three points of the tournament in a 1-0 win versus Sint Maarten.

Jake Forbes kept his cool in a dominant first half display shutting out distractions to fire home. “Their players were trying to put me off before taking it but I’m glad I scored and hopefully I’ve done my country proud,” said Forbes.

Forbes was a constant threat throughout the game and was an incredibly happy young man at the final whistle. “I was incredibly pleased with the overall team spirit throughout the tour. There were many positives and things that we can build on.”

It was a reshuffled team that took to the field with key players sitting out through injury, but each and every one put in a real shift to knock Dominica off their stride and create many chances to score. “The team was much more confident due to the win against Sint Maarten and built on the positives from that game to give us the upper hand. We did have a rough start to the tournament, but to come back and win two games is amazing.” confirmed Captain Malakai Stanners.

Coach Clinton “Tinnie” Percival was understandably a delighted man after a long week. “I am really proud of the guys. They played with pride and a never-say-die attitude. Even though we had to play the game without three of our regular starters, the other players showed character and the will to fight until the end.”

Percival also vowed to continue the processes established and see the boys realize their full potential. “Now that they have experienced the feeling of winning at this level, I can only see them going from strength to strength and we as the coaches will do everything that we can to assist them in the progress to greater things.”

BVI Football Association President, Mr. Andy Bickerton, who was on hand to witness the successful conclusion to the tournament, was also full of praise for the team. “With key players missing we knew knew we had a lot of work to do, and everyone gave 100%. All of them worked so hard and we could have won by three or four. We controlled them, did not let Dominica get into the game, we harassed them and chased them, and, you know that if you work really hard, you get the benefits.“

Bickerton was also reluctant to pick out any players for special mention in such a team performance, but Mekhi Walters in goal again impressed as did Malakai Stanners leading the team from a more central position. “Stanners held the team together,” confirmed Bickerton. “Having won two games, got six points to finish third in our group of five and then add getting our first win a day ago and now a win again today against all the odds, then you know we had great performances out there. Mekhi Walters again was great in goal. Jakes Forbes out front was just constantly causing problems. He had a great game. But you know again, it is difficult to pick out players. Malakai Stanners, Captain for the day, he held the team together, playing out of position in the centre of the defence. Justin Smith was his normal unbelievable self – both backwards or forwards – but these guys played together for each other, for their country and for National pride”

Bickerton was also quick to state that the hard work doesn’t end here. “We had National Coach, Chris Kiwomya here observing and helping, looking to see which players he wants to add to the National squad and obviously we have to find more competitions for this group. The players have showed him what big hearts they have and what potential they have. What we must do now is when the boys get back to Tortola, we have to work with them on the weaknesses that Kiwomya has identified. Our coaches will work with the players to help them improve themselves. Because if we can come out here and win two games like this in a tough group and then go away and spend time with our players to improve themselves, then what are we going to be like when those improvements begin to show? We now understand how to play in a system. We now understand how we have to support each other and we now understand how we have to run for 90 minutes.”

Kiwomya had used his observer role well and identified that after a tough start, the boys had shown real desire to win. “Today proved just what the boys can do. Obviously the first two games were disappointing, but with a lot of meetings and heart to heart conversations they all came out and showed desire to do everybody proud including themselves and the people on the island, so you know I’m really proud of them and the work they put in today as well as in both the last two games. We wanted it more than opposition.”

Filed Under: Football Tagged With: BVI Football Association, CONCACAF U20 Boys Championship 2021