Month: June 2023

Over the past months and years, international sports have been plagued by conflicts and challenges that call for a comprehensive re-evaluation of how we perceive and prepare for the future of sports. Caribbean sport administrators, except for a few, have struggled to actively participate in decision-making processes of international sports organizations, perpetuating a legacy of subservience. Despite showcasing exceptional talent, our administrators often submit to international authorities, undermining the belief in our equality.

The recent controversies surrounding FIFA, the emergence of the European Championships, the proposed European Super League, and the struggles of boxing and other sports demonstrate the complex dynamics at play. Financial interests, lack of ethics, and power imbalances overshadow the values of good governance, fair play, and athlete well-being.

As Caribbean nations, it is crucial that we engage in discussions and actively pursue our collective interests within international sports organizations. We must critically analyze existing models, including those of the IOC and the Olympic Games, to determine the best course of action for our region.

The future of international sport hangs in the balance, and it is imperative that we reflect on the direction we want it to take. The influence of money and self-righteousness within sports politics must be confronted, and rigorous principles applied uniformly to ensure fairness and transparency.

Together, we can shape a future where Caribbean sports administrators play an equal and influential role, safeguarding the values of sport and championing the interests of our athletes and nations.

“CANOC Congratulates CCS President on XXIV CAC Games and Celebrates International Olympic Day 2023”

Over the past decades, our country has experienced a mix of success and failures in sports. Unfortunately, we haven’t always learned from our lessons, which is disheartening. However, when we have had positive experiences, they give us a glimpse of what is possible. Sport is a human right and contributes to the holistic development of individuals, a reality we often overlook. It’s regrettable that educators sometimes clash with sports enthusiasts due to the misconception that sports hinder academic growth. History reveals how certain groups were pushed into sports and music based on racist beliefs. Despite these challenges, many once colonized peoples have showcased their talent and intelligence through sports, art, drama, and music.

In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, cricket has been deeply ingrained due to its colonial past, symbolizing the pleasure of the colonizers and reinforcing the inferior status of the people. While some countries still struggle with this legacy, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is gradually emerging from the shadows. The history of our society reflects a persistent struggle for freedom through sports, despite the broader society’s struggle to define itself. Many of us find ourselves torn between being Naipaul’s “mimic men” and Lamming’s “castle of my skin.” The reality may be that we resemble Fanon’s concept of “the wretched of the earth” on which we live.

There are inspiring stories of Vincentian athletes who have pursued education and career opportunities through sports. Wendell Hercules, Lenford ‘Poui’ O’Garro, Jacqueline Ross, Eversley Linley, Orde Ballantyne, Carl Ollivierre, Sonia Israel, Garth Saunders, Nickie Peters, Adonal Foyle, Eswort Coombs, Natasha Mayers, Kineke Alexander, Shafiqua Maloney, and Handal Roban are some notable examples. These individuals have achieved success in various fields while utilizing their athletic abilities. It’s time to abandon the belief that sports lead to a loss of instructional time and a dead end in life. Our education system should embrace the evolving trends in sports and offer more open and creative delivery to our students.