It’s still not clear if an incident at a primary school in Mayaro, where a student got his arm broken, was a case of bullying or a matter of play-fighting gone wrong.

But a spokesman for the Trinidad and Tobago Teachers Union (TTUTA) advised parents to ban their children from watching television wrestling.

That is bad advice.

Without knowing the particulars of the case, I would venture to say that, if the boy’s arm was broken accidentally rather than maliciously, then both he and the perpetrator need more exposure to wrestling and other martial arts, rather than less.

In his book Killing Monsters, writer Gerard Jones asserts:

“Television wrestling mimics rough-housing in many ways. Those absurdly brawny men picking up their opponents and slamming them into the mat, or bouncing off ropes and flying fist-first through the air, are exactly what rough-housing little children see themselves doing in their minds.”

Jones notes that in America, TV wrestling became popular in the 1940s, right after the end of the Second World War, and in the late 1960s and mid 1990s, when crime rates were rising and parents were more likely to clamp down on their children’s “violent” behaviour. In T&T, similarly, professional wrestling became so hugely popular in the 1970s that the wrestlers were brought in for live “matches” and the sport has again regained popularity now, as violent crime has soared.

In Japanese pre-schools, teachers never interfere with children’s fighting unless they see bullying taking place or if the blows reach a dangerous level. And Japan is one of the most peaceful societies on the planet. Jones asserts, “Pretended savagery lifts kids out of shyness and knocks down barriers to closeness. Games involving chasing, pillow fighting, squirt guns, and mock combat helps kids learn how to judge dangers and take appropriate risks. Jumping willingly into those pretend dangers and coming out unhurt helps kids distinguish fantasy from reality.”

Jones is using the gender-neutral noun, but the fact is that boys far more than girls engage in rough-and-tumble play: and boys, more than girls, need to do this. This is where fathers take on a crucial role, because fathers are far more likely to engage in physical play with their children, both boys and girls, than mothers. If fathers do this more often with their sons–as I do with my boy Kyle–it’s mainly because their daughters don’t like these games as much.

And what these games do for boys is allow them to calibrate their strength and aggression, inflicting hurt and getting hurt, so that they can control such impulses better as they get older. This, in my opinion, is one reason that boys from father-absent homes are more likely to be aggressive and even criminals, because they have never learned to deal with their own impulses through play.

So fathers who try to be politically correct by restraining their sons from violent play may not be doing them any good, and may even be making them less fitted for later life.

We have had such an upsurge of abuse handed down to females over the past few years in T&T that it makes one wonder what has gone wrong that women can be treated with such brutality at times. It makes my heart bleed, as a young mother, when I read, see and hear what so many women suffer daily at the hands of some men who may not realise the vital roles women play in society.

Women are a direct gift from God. If we were to go back to the beginning, we would see after man was created God realised that it was not good for man to be alone so he chose the best soul mate for him. A precious woman. So, every time one disrespects, abuses or ill-treats a woman, they literally are saying to God, “you did not do well.” God gave his best as a helpmate for man.

Our very existence on earth is owed to a woman, our mothers. While scientists are trying to bring about childbirth in different ways, the natural method is through a woman. We carry and birth children as we go through the pain and all that go with child bearing that we have certainly earned the right to be respected by men.

Women are a helpmate to men. An example of such is that of being great financiers. Many men provide well for their home financially, but they should collaborate with their spouses when budgeting as women can assist with prioritising, making sure that basic needs are met before considering luxury.

Being thorough decision makers women are insightful and patient, leading to the selection of a more appropriate options. For example, shopping. Many women take a long time to complete shopping because they want the best deal for their money. The opinions of women are valuable when making decisions. This is all part of building a balanced home life.

Taking all these into consideration I am sure you would see the great role we women play in our nation. So many of us form the backbone of the family and the wider society, keeping things in motion yet doing it with grace and pleasure. We should therefore be respected and treated with dignity always, as God expects it to be.

Roxanne Wharton,

Trincity

We have been witnessing an increase in violence against women in the last few months, which is quite troubling. What will cause a man to physically harm a woman to the point of slitting her throat is the question many have been asking. Some have called for stiffer penalties in dealing with domestic violence and others are clamouring for the strengthening of laws on restraining orders.

Men need to understand a few things in relation to women. Here are a few of them:

• women are precious and should be treated with respect;

• women are the ones who carry a child in their womb for nine months and bear the pain in delivering that child at birth;.

• a woman is not property that you can own;

• she is not a child, so you can’t go about beating her if she says or does something out of timing;

• she is not a lesser being.

Men need to practise self-control in dealing with their ego.

Andre Roberts

Barataria

Karina Matabal and Serena Mackenzie, who tied second place finishers in last year’s Ladies Golf Open, will fancy their chances of claiming the title at the Nestle Svelty and Nescafe Dolce Gusto sponsored competition which starts today and ends tomorrow.

This will be at the St Andrews Golf course in Moka, Maraval. Tee off is at 9 am in the tournament which will serve a national team qualifier.

A new winner will emerge as two-time champion 19-year-old, Ysabelle Lawrence, is not among the 61 participants that will be playing in the 29th edi­tion of the two-day tournament, which received a contribution of TT$80,000 from its sponsor. Law­rence is unable to defend her title this year due to academic respon­sibilities abroad.

Lawrence then, had retained her title after finishing nine shots clear of Matabal and Mackenzie who were both tied for second place. The two were eventually only separated by Matabal’s better second day score. Marlyn Jackson, who took the net prize in the 1st flight, will also be back.

This year, 19 overseas players will participate from territories includ­ing Antigua, Barbados, Canada, Curacao, St Kitts, Suriname and the United Kingdom.

Standout players from last year Surinamese duo Geertje van Kessel and Margerith van der Jagt, who took first and second places in the 2nd flight are back to compete.

The competition will be played in three flights to accommodate all handicap levels and will be con­tested as strokeplay over 36 holes with the second round tomorrow.

Before the Open begins, the La­dies Section will host a warm-up tournament and cocktail reception for its players, which attracts lady golfers from the Caribbean and further afield.

During the cheque handover last Thursday at the company’s head office in Valsayn, Elisa Doldron, head of Consumer Marketing at Nestle, expressed great pride in being a part of the advancement of women’s golf in T&T and the region, by extension. Supporting her sentiment, Rae-Ann Clem­ent-Harper, senior Consumer Marketing manager, Nescafe Dolce Gusto, highlighted the superior fit between women’s golf, a premium sport, and Dolce Gusto, a premium coffee.

In response, Elizabeth Lawrence, Treasurer of the St Andrews Golf Club, Ladies Section, thanked the sponsor for its continued support in the promotion of women, and ladies golf in particular, through its brands.

MONDAY’S DRAW

First Flight

Time; Player 1; Player2; Player 3

9 am: Gillian Quesnel; Liz Lawrence

9.10 am: Violet Roopchand; Shirley Kluyver

9.20 am: Serena Mackenzie; Jewel Rokx; Karina Matabadal

9.30 am: Zoe Correia; Amoy Chang Fong; Mi­chelle Da Silva

9.40 am: Ana Ferreira; Lynn McLeod; Joanne Bryden

9.50 am: Marlyn Jackson; Sarah Ramphal; Yeli Lee

Second Flight

10 am: Jennifer Grainger; Jenny Walker; Louise Jones

10.10 am: Brenda Clarke; Lilian Hermelijn; Sandra Montano

10.20 am: Jackie Crawford; Diana Austin; Stella Van der Roest

10.30 am: Thea Adriaans; Samantha Juteram; Kitty Murphy

10.40 am: Angela Hodgkinson; Gisele Marfleet; Synthia Nelson

11 am: Caroline Aleong; Sherry Ann Fortune; Susan Meah John

Third Flight

11.20 am: Rasheeda Joseph; Vijanti Solomon; Salisha Ragoo

11.30 am: Paige Hurd; Diane Julien; Phyllis Mo­hammed

11.40 am: Diana Oemrawsingh; Jocelyn Maxime; Margerith Van der Jagt

11.50 am: Hanka Wolterstoft; Chandra Jagger­nauth; Ramdai Mohammed

12.00 pm: Rasha Ter Braack; Gwen Bailey; Geertje Van Kessel

12.10 pm: Carolin Beharry; Symoniez Clouston; Marika Caesar

12.20 pm: Moy Hosang; Sita Mungroo; Cristina Mueller

12.30 pm: Petra Beems; Michelle Berry; Leonita Wilson

Central FC midfield­er Keron Cummings is grateful to be able to contest for Senior Team selection again a little more than a year after being sidelined after suf­fering gun shot wounds.

Cummings was forced to stay away from the game last year, undergoing re­hab before taking the pitch again with Central FC. And though not quite back to the form that saw him break into the starting team at the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Cummings is feeling good again.

“I am grateful to God for this op­portunity to rejoin the national team and press for selection for the two World Cup qualifiers in March. And I would like to thank head coach Den­nis Lawrence for seeing it fit to bring me back in the team at this time,” Cummings said.

“I intend to give it my all, work hard and try to do what is best for the team during the upcoming training camp and hopefully I can be part of the team in March.”

Cummings was named among 27 players called up by Dennis Lawrence for a training camp beginning on Monday. If it’s one player the Mex­icans will recall is the former W Con­nection player after his second half double put them on the backfoot in the 4-4 draw during the Gold Cup in 2014.

“It’s been a long road back and I still have some way to go but I am hungry again and I really want to work my way back into the final team and try to help us push forward in the remaining qualifying matches,” Cummings added.

Bermudans make changes before facing T&T U20s

Reports out of Bermuda suggests that mystery surrounds the reasons behind three last-minute changes to the Bermuda under 20 team prior to their opening CONCACAF qualify­ing match against T&T tomorrow in San Jose, Costa Rica

Bermuda made three changes to the original squad submitted to CONCACAF, with North Vil­lage pair Azende Furbert and Rai Sampson, and Dandy Town’s Jahtino Richardson-Martin being replaced with Somerset Eagles’ Nathan Rego, Jahnazae Swan, of Dandy Town, and Village’s Zenawi Bowen.

Mark Wade, the Bermuda Football Association president, declined to explain the reasons behind the late changes.

“From our perspective we with­drew three players, the reasons for that are an internal matter and we don’t comment on that,” Wade said.

Bermuda’s squad boasts 14 players who are based overseas in England and the United States. Among the overseas players are Bristol City forward Osagi Bascome and Walsall midfielder Kacy-Milan Butterfield, who captained the team at the Car­ibbean Under-20 Championship in Curaçao last October.

T&T’s under 20 squad arrived in San Jose on Wednesday ahead fol­lowing a training camp in Colombia.

Morace: It’s no longer a man’s game

National senior women’s team head coach Carolina Morace says she studies the best men’s team in the world such as Real Madrid, Bar­celona and Bayern Munich in order to keep herself in tune with the ongoing changes in the game today.

A FIFA legend ambassador for women’s football, largely rated as one of the best ever women play­ers to emerge from Europe and now one of the top women coaches in the world, Morace said in a recent arti­cle with Players Tribune headlined “No longer a Man’s game” that she is hoping to take women’s football in T&T to level that can see the country compete on a world level.

“I try to study the best teams in the world as much as I can. Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich — they all play the game at the highest level tactically,” Morace stated.

“And my biggest takeaway from watching them play was the idea of buildup. For a team like Barcelona, the keeper’s distribution is a very important part of each attack.

“These are the little things that are holding our women’s game back.

“I hope to bring these ideas with me as I head (along with the rest of my staff) to Trinidad and Tobago. There’s talent there, and I believe it’s a great place for me to start over and work with an enthusiastic group of young women,” she added.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Shaun Fuentes is the communications manager for the TTFA - shaunfuentes@yahoo.com

 Jan-Michael Williams, the goalkeeper of reigning Pro League champion team Cen­tral FC and his manager/owner Brent Sancho believes that the team and by extension profes­sional football in T&T are being disrespected by Sports Minister Darryl Smith.

In a press release yesterday from the club, both the national player and Sancho, expressed their concerns with the lack of treatment they claim from the minister.

According to the release, “When we won our second successive Car­ibbean Club Championship last year, we received no recognition from Minister Smith,” said Williams. “It was the highest profile sporting achievement by any team from T&T in 2016, yet we didn’t even receive a letter of congratulations.”

Williams continued, “The club did receive a congratulatory letter from both the president of Fifa and Conca­caf, commenting on the outstanding achievement. It’s very disappointing as a player in our national sport to see the lack of respect for our achieve­ments.”

Central FC managing director, Brent Sancho remains mystified by the lack of interest from minister Smith.

Sancho noted that, “Of course, being a former Minister of Sport for the opposition, people would expect me to criticise Darryl Smith. I try to steer clear of political statements but I cannot stay quiet any longer. As a former footballer, I am amazed that the minister has never acknowledged the TT Pro League clubs. He has re­fused to meet individual clubs and has taken no interest in the profes­sional league, yet he’s held meetings with the new Super League owners, which has not yet been formally rat­ified by TTFA.”

Sancho said that the actions of the Minister of Sport directly effect the support available from potential sponsors.

Sancho added, “It’s crazy because on one hand the minister is cutting funding to the Pro League and saying clubs need to be more self sufficient, but he does nothing to help them achieve this. He should be regularly speaking of the accomplishments of the Pro League, which would greatly assist clubs in become self funded.”

Sancho pointed out that Central FC is the only club from T&T to win the CFU Caribbean Club Champion­ship back to back while also winning its domestic league.

The former 2006 World Cup player said he feels Smith is attempting to shut down the professional league. “There can be no other explaination. ok, you make cost cutting decisions, but why start at the top? Our profes­sional football is admired overseas. It provides employment for hundreds of people, many of whom would possibly find it difficult to secure meaningful employment elsewhere. Imagine what we could achieve with proper support from the Ministry of Sport and Corporate T&T,” said Sancho.

Central FC brand

The release outlined that, “Central continue to build their brand over­seas. Nineteen-year-old Nicholas Dillon, has joined Belgian 2nd Di­vision club, K.Patro Maasmechel­en. His Central team mate, Nath­aniel Garcia is expected to join him shortly at the Belgian club. Another of Central FC’s talented young play­ers, Jem Gordon has departed to USA for trials.”

Sancho said that the club, which has been meeting with potential in­vestors over the last 18 months, is near to clinching a partnership with a consortium that has interests in several clubs across Europe.

“These things don’t move quickly,” said Sancho. “The interest in Central is dependent on several other deals going through in Europe. All we can do is carry on winning titles to ensure that the interest remains while they complete their affairs.

However, I would estimate that there’s a 90% chance of new in­vestors coming on board before we compete in the CFU finals in May.”

Everyone at Central also wishes to congratulate Stern John on his appointment as assistant coach to the national team. His appointment reflects the hard work he has put into the club over the last season and a half and his influence on the team is apparent from the clubs continued success.

 Champion batsman Brian Lara will commence his community T20 cricket tour this afternoon at the Barataria Oval Ground, Barataria, from 5 pm.

The batting superstar is using the sport and skills he knows best to reach out to the young people of T&T and he promised that he will do it community-by-community to send his positive message.

Lara and several of friends will take the field out at 78 Sparrow Avenue, alongside the like of West Indies Test batsman Darren Bravo, former Test players Dinanath Ramnarine, Denesh Ramdin, who is the T&T captain, pace bowler Fidel Edwards and others like Kevon Cooper, Lin­coln Roberts, the hard hitting Kirk Edwards and his good friend Dwight Yorke, who will be part of the event.

He said yesterday, “I will be dedi­cating my fist game of this Island—wide Tour to two of my best friends in sport that recently passed—Mr John Sabga and Mr Scott Anderson. It is difficult to find a more passionate and knowledgeable man in sport as John Sabga and it’s guys like him that inspires you daily to keep going. As an exited professional cricketer every­one knows about my love for golf, and it is Scott Anderson who was my coach and my business partner in golf and most importantly, my friend. Both passed from cancer and both gone too soon. Just young men. This one is for them, I miss them dearly. May they both RIP.”

As it pertains to players for the game, I wish to share with you news of some of the guys who will be playing tomorrow (meaning today) and in the other installments of the tour: “Exciting and promising Jacob Bethell, who is 13 years old and from Barbados. He represents Barbados at under 15 level. The first time I saw him was early last year at Franklin Stephenson Academy and you tell he has ball sense, but with that I also saw exceptional talent.”

On Thursday, Lara, who holds the record for scoring 501 runs in an innings, expressed his concern about T&T. Without making di­rect comments or reference about the current crime situation he said, “Today, what’s going on in T&T we need a little positive energy coming out. If we could just affect two or three youngsters in any particular community, it would be wonderful.”

Lara said his objective is that the message from the venture is to give young people hope.

He continued, “We are not dealing with failures very well in this country. I think a very big part of any sports­man’s life is to deal with failures because the more you get knocked down, you pick yourself back up and move on. The former West Indies captain explained, “We have a lot of youngsters who are experiencing a lot of hardships and they are turning to alternative things to do.”

Lara is calling on the public to show their support for the event attend since this is about showing that we care.

Newly promoted Central Sports defeated Tableland United by 10 wickets on the second day of their TTCB Premiership clash at Felicity, yesterday.

Starting the day on six without loss in their second innings, Tableland were undermined by Shazan Babwah, Stephen Shaddick and Rakesh Maharaj with two wickets apiece and bowled out for 102. After their first innings effort of 133 all out was overhauled by Central Sports 180, it meant they gave them just 56 runs to win, which they did without losing a wicket. Opener Kamil Pooran hustled the result with an unbeaten 40.

At the Oval defending champions Queen’s Park Cricket Club conceded first innings to Merryboys, falling for 237 in reply to the visitors 318. Queen’s Park eventual total of 237 represented a recovery, as they were 137/7 at one point. All rounder Tion Webster flexed his muscles in getting 67, while skipper Justin Guillen made 40 at the top of the order. The man doing the damage for Merryboys was national player Marlon Richards, who bagged 5/69. With a lead of 81 on first innings, Merryboys closed the second day in a spot of bother on 53/4, as Webster came back to take 2/14. They now lead by 134 runs, with six wickets in hand going into the final day today.

At Charlieville the clash between Alescon Comets and PowerGen was totally washed out due to the inclement weather. At Wilson Road, rain also affected the clash between Clarke Road and Victoria, as only one over was bowled. Victoria resuming on 269/7 reached 271/7 when the heavens opened.

All matches get off at 10am today.

PREMIERSHIP I SCORES

At Pierre Road: Alescon Comets 341/8 (Kirk Edwards 156, Keon Joseph 33, Andy Gobin 57) vs PowerGen.

At the Oval: Merryboys 318 all out (Mario Belcon 98, Isaiah Rajah 72, Lincoln Roberts 60no) & 53/4 (Tion Webster 2/14) vs QPCC 237 all out (Tion Webster 67, Justin Guillen 40, Marlon Richards 5/69).

At Wilson Road: Victoria 271/7 (Gary Mathurin 63no, Keddy Lesporis 41, Savion Lara 36, Kerron Kanhai 34, Yannick Ottley 2/27, Jyd Goolie 2/34).

At Felicity: Tableland 133 all out (Shazan Babwah 5/50, Stephen Shaddick 4/38) & 102 all out (Stephen Shaddick 2/16, Shazan Babwah 2/22, Rakesh Maharaj 2/12) vs Central Sports 180 all out (Jahron Alfred 52, Kissondath Magram 41, K Negus 4/52) & 56/0 (Kamil Pooran 40no). Central Sports won by 10 wickets.

This year’s Milo Games will celebrate it’s 30th Anniversary, making it the longest sponsored School Games in T&T.

The inaugural Milo Games was in 1987 and the Milo Representative were Marcelle Dolly and Lennox Toussaint. That day thirteen schools participated but on March 7th this year, a total of 22 schools will be battling for honours.

As a prelude to the Games, sponsor Milo will host a Milo Sports Quiz before the Milo Games Launch on Friday March 3rd.

The Games is expected to be the largest of all time with the theme, ‘The End of an Era.” Schools have already made arrangement through the Ministry of Education to transfer their activities to the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.

The Management Committee has invited all the former Chairpersons of the Zone headed by the brilliant Yvonne Pinder. she will have with her George Delaney and Gilbert Inkim, Regis Jordan, Elsa McConnney, Elizabeth Goddard, Lorna Blackman and the man who kick-started the West into top gear, Martin Oliver.

The Minister of Education, The Honourable Anthony Garcia and Minister Lovell Francis have been invited, along with Minister of Sport, Darryl Smith.

Other specially invited guest include the Advisor To The Minister of Education, Cheryl Ann Wilkinson, Anthony Creed, Rawle Phillips, Mennen Walker-Briggs, Avril Sampson, Elma Joyeau Campbell, Ann Marie Xavier and Burey George.

Last year in front one of the largest crowds in the history of the Milo Games inaugural winners from 1987, Diamond Vale Government School, recorded their 29th success under their new Principal David Weekes.

T&T’s Under 20 Men footballers will kick off their CONCACAF Final round quest for World Cup qualification against Bermuda at the Ricardo Saprissa Stadium Costa Rica today from 1:00 pm.

The Team, under headcoach Brian Williams will be looking to qualify this country to a third Under 20 World Cup following appearances in 1991 and 2009. T&T progressed to the CONCACAF final phase but failed to advance out of the competition in Kingston, Jamaica.

Team captain Jabari Mitchell believes their dream is alive and the squad is ready to conquer their opponents. “I think right now we are fired up and ready to take on our opponents from the opening whistle.” Mitchell said. “We have a strong desire to represent the country to our best ability and the players understand what it means doing well in a tournament like this and going on to qualify for a World Cup. The main thing is for us to apply ourselves well and go out there and get the job done,” he noted.

Williams is optimistic of a good start but also mindful of the opponents as T&T lost 2-1 to the Bermudans at the CFU qualifiers last year. “We have a good understanding of the Bermudan team. We know what happened the last time these two countries met at the CFU level and I think the players will remember that going into the game. We are focused on the task at hand and we know a good performance and winning start will be a huge boost to our chances of advancing to the World Cup,” Williams said.

“We maintain our objective and we remain humble. We did a lot of mental preparations. We worked on team building during the Colombia training camp. We had a very good session yesterday. All our players are fit and available for selection on Sunday. I am pleased with the way things are at this point in time” Williams explained.

“We have our striker Nicholas Dillon back from Belgium and he is looking very fit and sharp in the sessions and that is a boost for us. He missed the last game against Bermuda and I am expecting us to have a better game than last time around,” Williams said.

Dillon joined the team in Costa Rica after completing a successful trial in Belgium where he signed Second Division club, K.Patro Maasmechelen. One of Bermuda’s key players is forward Osagi Bascome who recently signed an extension to his contract with English Championship Division club Bristol City.

The Championship opened on Friday with Honduras defeating Canada 1-0 and Mexico overcoming Antigua/Barbuda 3-0.

T&T faces hosts Costa Rica in their second game at the National Stadium on February 22nd and El Salvador at the same venue on February 25th.

The National Stadium and Estadio Ricardo Saprissa will both be used for the tournament, to be played in a new format consisting of a group stage, a classification phase, and the grand final. Under the new format, designed to increase the number of meaningful, competitive matches, the top two teams from Groups A, B, and C will advance to the Classification Stage, where the Confederation’s four tickets to the World Cup at this level will be determined in round robin play among two groups of three teams each.

The top two teams of each of the two Classification Stage groups will qualify as CONCACAF representatives to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Korea Republic 2017.

T&T Roster:

Goalkeepers:

Montel Joseph (Boreham Wood F.C./ENG)

Denzil Smith (Shiva Boys College)

Defenders:

Simeon Bailey (Barataria South Secondary)

Kori Cupid (Presentation College)

Isaiah Garcia (W-Connection FC)

Taryk Sampson (Ma Pau Stars)

Shane Sandy (Naparima College)

Midfielders:

Morgan Bruce De Rouche (QP Rangers F.C)

Micah Lansiquot (Mucurapo East Sec)

Stephon Marcano (Fatima College)

Kierron Mason (Marabella Crisis Centre)

Jabari Mitchell (W-Connection)

Noah Powder (New York Red Bulls)

Joshua Sitney (Alcons/TRI)

Forwards:

Nicholas Dillon (Central FC)

Joshua Leach (Police FC)

Taofik Lucas-Walker (DC United Academy)

Rushawn Murphy (Malick Senior Comprehensive)

Kathon St Hillaire (St Anthonys College)

Josh Toussaint (St Anns Rangers)

The Spectacular success of West Indian cricket teams in three International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments last year must not be taken for granted and can act as a pivot for the region to restore its reputation as a viable force in world sport.

This point was hammered home by president of the West Indies Cricket Board Wycliffe “Dave” Cameron when he hosted a lively town hall meeting on Thursday at the Preysal High School in the company of his vice-president Emmanuel Nanton and leading officials of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board.

Cameron, who returns unopposed as WICB president for a third consecutive term later this year highlighted several other notable achievements in 2016 which he said have placed the regional game in an enviable position.

“No cricket board in the world can boast of holding three ICC championships at any one time as West Indies do, and we must commend ourselves as last year was very big for regional cricket,” said Cameron.

He also pointed to significant progress which has been made in the relationship between the WICB and its marquee players; the improvement of the regional board’s financial position; the positive results from restructuring the regional game; and an increased emphasis on youth development.

Cameron also said that a return to the core values enunciated by his administration when he ascended the presidency of the WICB in 2013 has helped chart the way forward and is the basis for many of the gains achieved in the recent past.

Among the principles being strictly adhered to, and demanded by his administration are accountability, integrity, respect, excellence, teamwork, inclusiveness and innovation and they form the framework for all decisions reached by the board.

Cameron also disclosed that for the first time in the 90-year history of the WICB, the regional cricket organisation can boast of acquiring its own property, the former Sticky Wicket facility which is now a High Performance Centre in Coolidge in Antigua and Barbuda, co-jointly owned with the islands’ government.

The Jamaican financial expert said he is also proud of the growth of the Scotiabank Kiddy Cricket initiative, a holistic development programme combining academics with basic cricket coaching, pioneered in Trinidad and Tobago for primary school children and now involves 140,000 children around the Caribbean.

Cameron told the participants in the town hall meeting, the second in a swing through the six WICB territories, that his board has also hired qualified personnel to several key positions including Chief Operations Officer, who is a female, which has strengthened its human resource capital and enhanced its ability to deliver on his vision going forward.

He admitted though that the resuscitation of West Indian fortunes in the longer formats of the game, namely Test and one-Day Internationals remains a great challenge and is a work in progress, but he remains hopeful that the groundwork is being laid for meaningful success in the near future.

“The decline started long before we came into office in 2013 and it will take some time to get to where we want to be, among to top Test playing countries in the world once again,” said Cameron.

He pointed to the current Super50 tournament’s new franchise-based restructuring which he said had achieved several major successes including the staging of more matches, bigger scores by players and teams, and the employment of cricketers full-time under retainer contracts.

“We are not yet turning the corner but we are on the right path with the focus on the players,” Cameron said.

The WICB chief said that there is an incorrect perception that the WICB has been negligent in seeking the interest of their players, but he said nothing is further from the truth as his board has been having regular interactions with its most valuable asset.

He pointed to a trip undertaken before the ill-fated tour to India to Miami, Florida by the players, management and top officials when wide ranging discussions took place and everyone had their say in an amicable atmosphere.

Following this, he said ongoing interaction with board officials and players had yielded significant results and restored trust between both parties, and this is evidenced by a de-escalation of the heated rhetoric and antagonism which formerly characterised their relationship.

Kavita Kissoon has been facing medical challenges since she was a child. Over the years, she developed several chronic illnesses and since 2009, she learnt that her skin disorder was called Hidradenitis Suppurativa, a rare and incurable disease which affects mobility (even causing temporary disabilities), and which can be extremely painful and uncomfortable and influence anxiety/depression.

As a result of this chaotic mix, she was experiencing symptoms and at risk for other complications. She was stuck in a vicious cycle as treating any of the ailments caused problems with another and then another. After surgical intervention in early 2016, Kissoon was left with two ailments—one of which is very easy to manage and the second which is Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

However, it seems at this time that the once rare incurable illness may actually be cured. Her life has changed dramatically and her ‘medical challenges’ are no more. The surgical intervention comes with new specifications and management but she has support from various professionals including a nutrition consultant, personal trainer and others who help her with her holistic approach to health management.

She is now able to commit to her fitness goals without having to “stop and reboot” for hospital surgeries or stays, and is no longer on any medication. As a result of her experiences, she has developed a passion for and would like to move into a career in hospital administration “to be on the other side for a change and to help those like me”. She is also writing a book to support others who are challenged by multiple ailments and find it psychologically overwhelming as well as those who interface with such people to help and guide them in supporting their loved ones.

Kissoon said she receives emails, calls and visits often from people wanting to learn more or get guidance and support specifically with anxiety and she is always happy to work with them.

Kissoon loves rescuing animals, spinning, running, boxing, yoga, kayaking and is an avid reader—primarily self-help, new age, philosophical and inspirational content. She enjoys motivational videos and videos by Sadhguru, Ajahn Brahm, Dr Wayne W Dyer and Mooji on youtube.

Tell us about your health challenges.

From my early days of birth, I had challenges health-wise. One thing led to another and up to mid-2016, I was juggling a number of illnesses and complications along with potential for more. Treatment of any single illness influenced problems with another which in turn influenced a third and so on, keeping me in a cycle of chaos. In late 2015, I met a team of doctors who found a surgical solution to break the cycle. In April 2016, with the help of many financial contributors, I was able to transform my life significantly. Before meeting this new team, I thought I had tried just about ‘everything’ and had met many doctors who made me feel hopeless. We needed an “aggressive approach” to break the cycle. I am now left with just two illnesses. One is very easy to manage and the second is supposed to be rare and incurable but there is a possibility that it has, in fact, been cured.

Naturally, managing so many ailments comes with anxiety and many visits by self-doubt and fear. On the other side, there is the desire and will to go beyond surviving into thriving. I’ve always been “the weird one” who from an early age would seek out self-help sources of information, would ‘meditate’ before it ‘became cool’ and it got me mocked a lot (still I am, almost daily) but I knew why I was doing it. I understood the difference I felt. It fuelled gaining a clear appreciation for my purpose and helps me to stay aligned to such whilst pursuing my defined goals.

What is your approach to well-being?

Components of fitness include resilience, endurance, strength, flexibility and cardio-respiratory health. Underlying all of these is self-love. I believe in a holistic approach to health. It extends from your thoughts to your food choices to your associates to your exercise programmes and back to your thoughts. It works best when your mind, body, and soul are in union.

I’m now vegan. I’m not sure if anyone is ever 110 per cent vegan...but I do make a conscious effort towards it and that, for me, is the most important thing. I remember reading about slaughter houses when I was very young—somewhere between ages seven-11. From a young age, I pursued a spiritual path. I learnt about what veganism actually is in 2016. I found myself throughout my life always questioning why I could not bear to watch an animal die, why I would feel so connected to the environment and earth, yet I was a meat eater who kept ‘trying’ vegetarianism and failing at it. I always felt guilty for eating meat and had no idea then of the dairy industry. Going fully plant-based has changed my life. I feel cleaner, leaner, stronger, faster, connected, at peace within knowing that I contribute not just to the animals but to protecting the planet, helping endangered species, taking a stand for justice, protecting the rainforest, and influencing a more peaceful world.

You seem to have a lot of fitness hobbies, which one brings you to tears?

I think running is the most emotional experience for me because I always remember the days when I would put on my bandages and walk slowly and cry because it was so painful and so uncomfortable. I just kept thinking “one foot in front of the other”. Now I can run indoors consistently for three miles and outdoors consistently for 1.5 miles. This is a huge accomplishment for me and for someone with my ‘rare incurable illness’ which pretty much keeps people away from any sort of physical exercise. When I look back, I’ve come a really long way and I have a lot of people to thank for that.

What advice do you have for others?

It is critical to be clear about who you are and what you are about. That way, no matter how much the world shakes you, you bend but never break. I am not sure where this quote comes from but it means a lot to me “When your roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.” In the movie, The Prince of Egypt, there is a song that speaks to “a single thread in a tapestry though its colours brightly shine, could never see its purpose in the pattern of the grand design”. Each one of us has a lot to offer the world—it may take time and effort to find our purpose but once you do and you are aligned, you find all the right people and things and your life starts falling into place. Of course, you break alignment sometimes, but your practice helps you to reconnect. Never give up hope: things change every day. Keep going.

Kissoon can be contacted at kavitakissoon83@gmail.com

 It is that time of the year—Carnival 2017, the greatest show on earth—it is a time to party, frolic and display that well-earned gym body in your lovely decorated costumes. Ladies, I hope you have done a proper bra-fitting before purchasing your carnival costume, as you would not like the after effects from prancing the streets come Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

As simple as it may seem, proper bra-fitting is very important with regard to breast health, it is just as important as having your breast screening done.

On a regular basis, many women tend to purchase a bra because of its sexy appearance and style rather than the comfort and fit.

Statistics have shown that more that 85 per cent of women are wearing the wrong bra size.

Women, your breasts change throughout your life from puberty to menopause and beyond, and it is recommended to visit a bra-fitting specialist at least once every six months, as bra sizes can also vary due to the type of material used, different manufacturers, and many styles and designs.

The bra size you wore last Carnival certainly would not be the same this year and with continuous poor-fitting next year, the size will change as well.

Our breasts are composed of adipose (fat) tissue, glandular epithelium, ducts, blood vessels, collagen supporting fibres, and the skin being the outermost layer which is resting upon our chest wall with muscles.

The breast, however, is soft and pliable as any tissue in the entire human body, therefore poorly fitting bras can displace this tissue pushing it under the arm.

Many women are not aware of proper breast-care techniques, hence wearing ill-fitting garments that give little to no support and redirect the breast tissue, impeding circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Ladies, if you value your beauty and health this Carnival, you should perform regular self-breast examination to investigate the presence of lumps, bumps, heat and soreness, which should be done in conjunction to wearing a correctly fitted, properly supporting bra.

If your breasts are unprotected and unsupported while parading the streets and crossing the stage, it is subjected to bumping and bruising, as well as stretch and movement to the pull of gravity with every step, jump and wave.

Some of the major features to assess when purchasing a bra are:-

•Cups

•Underwires

•Centre panels

•Bra back

•Shoulder straps

Some features of a good supportive bra are:

•All the breast tissue must be encompassed by the supportive cup.

•Support must be from beneath the breast, rather than the shoulder straps.

•There should not be any pressure to redirect the breast and restrict circulation.

•The support should be firm enough to reduce most of the motion of the breast.

•Soft fabric should be used.

•The middle of your bra should be lying flat on your chest in front.

It is not too late, there are still a few days away from the greatest show on earth. So ladies, this Carnival protect your breasts. Always wear a proper fitting bra to ensure that even after you jump, wave and misbehave, your girls are intact, not just for Carnival but beyond. Feel free to visit your specialist breast centre for more advice on proper bra-fitting and breast health advice and tips, as well as get your comprehensive breast screening done. Enjoy a fast wine as it is your time now ladies. Have an enjoyable Carnival 2017. All the breast!!

Jyoti Priya Deonarine (RR)
Mammographer Pink Hibiscus Breast Health Specialists

Filmmaker Byron Camacho’s upcoming workshop on writing and directing short films is aimed toward adults who want to study the fundamentals of screenwriting and directing but have no background in film. Camacho said he hopes the workshop will provide a jumping-off point for aspiring filmmakers in T&T.

The programme consists of a three-hour class on Saturdays for eight weeks, beginning on March 11, and ending on April 29.

Camacho, who has a bachelor’s degree in film and television production from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, has also studied at the New York Film Academy.

Camacho has himself written and directed short films, including the ten-minute horror Less of You. He interned at Andrew Lauren Productions (The Spectacular Now, The Squid and the Whale), and The Weinstein Co (Lion, Django Unchained). He said both schools placed an emphasis on learning all aspects of filmmaking. The internships allowed him to get an inside look at what goes into larger studio filmmaking.

Interning contributed to his writing proficiency, too, as he was in the development department.

“I’d read scripts and books and whatever materials they would get in to be considered for actual projects. There was no discrimination in terms of material: we literally read everything from comic books to scripts that were clearly written by people who never took a script formatting class in their lives. I really enjoyed that experience and it definitely, 100 per cent made me a better writer.”

He said his recent experience volunteering with a non-profit organisation in Los Angeles, 826LA, where he helped elementary and high school children with writing short stories daily, also prepared him for putting on the workshop.

Camacho said the workshop course would focus heavily on writing and directing. “There will be a class dedicated to talking about what goes into creating a character and their backstory and how you incorporate a character into a story. Another class will deal with writing dialogue that sounds natural but at the same time isn’t expository and filled with backstory.

“The students will write their own scripts and we’ll workshop and critique them, then at the very end of the course we’re going to do sessions dedicated to actual production, just to give them a taste of what it’s like to be on set, basic three-point lighting, where to position a camera during a scene and directing actors, etc.

“I’m going to be having guest lecturers, other local filmmakers come in and help out with that.”

Camacho said the creative scene in T&T inspires him because he sees young people creating films and music videos despite a lack of resources.

“I’ve been living in places like LA and New York where there is an overabundance of resources, and so the thought of finding a way to actually create more opportunities for filmmakers here came to me.

“We would have an amazing industry, I see the potential for it, because people have the drive, the interest and the passion and once we are able to just create more opportunities for people to actually do what they want to do, I think it could lead to something huge. It’s definitely there, it’s just not being nurtured.”

Camacho said that based on the success of this workshop he would continue to offer others on different areas of film production.

He may, for example, hold workshops for teens in July/August which would be more production-oriented, as well as others in production design and editing.

“Ultimately I just really wanted to create something that was fun and challenging that would excite people about film and empower them to continue pursuing it as a creative means of expression. I would really like to get people inspired and get people motivated. I hope it can lead to bigger, more exciting things in the future.”

More info: Find: Paradise Film Workshops on Facebook.

Contemporary artist Rodell Warner’s work is far from ordinary and uses different media to express multiple ideas, which makes it hard for him to explain his art and intentions.

“Absolutely anything everywhere,” Warner said in a 2014 interview when asked what serves as a starting point for his work.

“I don’t really have a process per se,” he continued. “And all the things that I do are so different from each other that it’s kinda hard to draw a line from one to the other to say where it came about.”

Three years later, Warner still isn’t explaining his work. It has to be experienced, he said. Asked about his new exhibition, The Most Corrupting Notion Ever Captured in a Dream, which runs until Tuesday at Alice Yard in Woodbrook, Warner said: “I can’t describe it. It’s something you need to see.”

In a post on their blog, Alice Yard describes the work this way: “In recent months, artist Rodell Warner has been making a collection of painted objects exploring relationships between black and white, ‘as between off and on, living and nonliving, figure and ground, the way 1 and 0 signal off and on in transistors/computer language.’’

The post is illustrated with a photo of what looks like a large seashell painted in black and white stripes.

Warner started his creative career designing T-shirts, then he worked at an ad agency. He began taking photographs, then he began digitally manipulating photographs. His last solo exhibition at Alice Yard, 2013’s Year of the Snake Eating Itself, featured gifs, images (often popular on social media) that are a cross between photography and video and convey memes or ideas. The exhibition also included zines—handmade magazines—filled with images reflecting life in T&T.

“I just got into this whole world of making things in all the different ways you can make things,” he said in 2014.

Warner’s work is often interactive and meant to explore different aspects of human experience.

His project, Photobooth, part of 2009’s Erotic Art Week, invited the audience to take pictures of themselves in sensual poses with partners.

As part of a 2014 residency in New Local Space in Kingston, Warner used photos he took in nature to produce patterns that he printed on fabric. He then invited other artists and designers to create different things with his patterns.

For his project Closer, conducted in 2009 and 2011 in Port-of-Spain and Johannesburg, respectively, he asked strangers to make eye contact and captured the moment on camera.

“That literally came about because I’m walking around Port-of-Spain afraid of making eye contact with people and wondering if other people have the same issue...or how they deal with it,” he said in 2014.

“I’m thinking about my own life…and what I’m concerned with at the moment,” he continued. “And an idea will come up of how to engage it or learn more about it or think about it or share it with other people, and then I make a project and share it. And that’s how it goes.”

In the interview, conducted by the NLS while Warner was on his residency there, he was reluctant to pinpoint a single driving force behind his work.

“It changes all the time,” he said. “As I live and go through my life…I learn things and I put it into the work. I feel if I give an answer it wouldn’t be true. I have no idea what I’m doing. I’m doing many things is what it truly feels like.”

More info: Go to: aliceyard.blogspot.com

Devion Seals first appeared on stage in the calypso area in 1988 at the age of 11 at the National Junior Calypso Competition and the Junior Roving Calypso Tent.

Musically versatile, he plays the violin, piano and pan. He was a classical singer and also lead singer in the Melville Memorial Trinity Boys’ Choir. Seale acquired his musical skills from Mrs Esther Batson, he said.

In 1991, he had the distinction of leading his school steelband—Arima Government Secondary—in the School Steelband Music Festival.

As a junior calypsonian, he was in almost every semi-final and final competition sponsored by the National Carnival Commission and the National Action Cultural Committee. In 1994, he won the Star of Tomorrow title.

He was groomed by school teacher and composer George Martin, who was also instrumental in the development of Natasha Wilson and Singing Sonia at the junior level, and he was mentored by the late Lancelot Heath, founder and former manager of Junior Roving Tent.

In 1994 and 1995, he went to London with two other junior calypsonians to fulfil singing engagements with the London Calypso Tent, an organisation managed by the Association of British Calypsonians. These tours were personal successes for him, as he wooed British audiences with his mature and professional performances.

In 1997, he made his first appearance in the senior calypso arena as an unattached singer. This unattached status in no way inhibited his passion, his drive, enthusiasm or the quality of his performances, and he eventually made it to the semi-finals of the National Calypso Monarch Competition where he gave a most spirited and creditable performance. In 1998, he remained unattached and also made it to the national semi-finals.

For the 1999 season, he was selected to perform with Kitchener’s Revue, where he had the opportunity of performing two of GB’s compositions, “Lio” and “Rope ah Dope.”

His consistency in performance was very evident by the quality of his renditions which earned him nightly ovations.

His performances earned him a place in the National Calypso Monarch finals Dimanche Gras for the first time.

Today, Seale still performs with the Calypso Revue Tent and has made it to the Calypso Monarch Finals on numerous occasions. During this time, he has given us calypsoes such as “Lament for Shorty;” “Category my Donkey,” “Lio;” “Donut Country;” “Mr Pan;” “Ivan the Terrible;” “Little Eyes Big Vision;” and “Education Through the Eyes of the Calypsonian” (which both gave him the title of Best Social Commentary in 2000 and 2005 respectively); “One Song,” “Spirit of Calypso,” and in 2010, “De Sharer Strikes” and “A Wind of Change.”

For 2016, Devon captured the coveted title of National Calypso Monarch, with his two renditions “Respect God’s Voice” and “Spirit of Carnival.”

Tell us about your early years (including where you were born and grew up).

I was born in 1977 in Tunapuna and grew up in Bon Air Gardens, Arouca.

Which schools did you attend—primary, secondary, other?

Tunapuna Anglican, Arima Government Secondary (O’Level), El Dorado East Secondary (A’ Levels) and finally, I spent four years in Brazil pursuing a BSC at Universidade Catolica de Pernambuco (UNICAP). MBA from the Arthur Lok Jack GSB with specialisation in International Finance (Distinction). I am fluent in both Portuguese and Spanish.

What was your first paying job?

As a cashier/clerical officer at TSTT.

What are the plans for Carnival 2017?

As the reigning monarch, I intend to defend strong. This year also marks my 19th anniversary at the Kalypso Revue and as the monarch, I’m launching my compilation SealeD in Calypso.

What is your favourite thing about Carnival?

I just love being a part of Calypso Fiesta. As a practicing calypsonian, I look forward yearly to perform at Skinner Park. However, this year as the defending monarch, I’ll enjoy the show as a spectator.

Who is your favourite entertainer/calypsonian?

Favourite calypsonian is the Black Stalin.

What is your greatest accomplishment in Carnival other than winning the 2016 title?

I would say in 1999 when I made it to the Dimanche Gras for the first time and competed with Chalkdust, Duke, Stalin, Gypsy, Aloes, and Singing Sandra. It was also my debut year at the Kalypso Revue, which at that time was managed by the Lord Kitchener and Jazzy Pantin.

Who composed your 2016 winning calypsoes?

Christophe Grant.

Who/what has influenced/inspired you the most with regard to your calypso singing?

I would have to give credit to my aunt Singing Sonia for encouraging me to get involved in the junior competitions, Mr George Martin as a composer in the junior years, Mrs Esther Batson who was responsible for my vocal training, and both Gregory Ballantyne and Christophe Grant for providing the material over the past 20 years.

What is your recipe for success and what inspires you?

Early preparation and having an excellent support team. My inspiration comes from the reception from my fans. The fact that they enjoyed my performance keep me going.

Of all your accolades, accomplishments, prizes and awards, which do you rate as extremely special other than winning the 2016 Calypso Monarch?

An award for performing at the 4th International Calypso Festival in Cahuita, Costa Rica.

What is an interesting facet of Devon Seale’s personality that most people do not know about?

I’m a behind-the-scene guy who is always willing to take risk.

If you had to interview someone from T&T who you did not know and had to ask just one question, who would it be and what would be the one question?

Brian Lara. How has he handled his life after his retirement from cricket.

What is/are the most important lesson/s you’ve learned in life?

Nothing happens before its time. Living example (took me 20 years of competing in the senior calypso competition before winning the calypso monarch).

What advice would you give to the young people of T&T?

They should try to get involved in becoming young entrepreneurs and they should commit themselves to the journey.

If you could dine with anyone in history who would it be and why? What dinner conversation would you have with that person?

Janelle Penny Commissiong. To discuss with her how she dealt with her victory as the first Black Miss Universe.

How would you describe yourself?

Very down-to-earth person who has a good sense of humour. I’m focused and professionally committed about my craft and all other things I’m involved in.

What would you say you do to bring your performance to life on stage?

I bring a high level of professionalism on stage and I always try to transform into character.

Which of your calypsoes of the past would you like a first-time audience to listen to/see you perform?

“Lio”—this calypso is very historical and it tells the story of Lionel Belasco, a pioneer composer, pianist, and band leader who was instrumental in the recording of calypso music that gained international exposure.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

To believe in yourself.

What is the most difficult decision you have ever made?

Going to Brazil, not being able to speak the language to pursue my first degree.

What would you say is your greatest virtue?

Loyalty.

What daily motto do you live by?

“Do the best you can until you know better, then when you know better, do better.”—Maya Angelou.

Describe yourself in two words—one beginning with D, the other with S, your initials.

Determined and Simple.

Dr Terrence Farrell, Chairman of the Cabinet-appointed Economic Development Advisory Board, has voiced concern that in the last two years $3 billion from our foreign reserves went into foreign currency transactions ie supporting the TT dollar.

This comes at a time of dwindling revenue from the energy sector which accounts for the majority of our foreign exchange earnings. Our appetite for foreign goods continue unabated even though we cannot afford it at the existing rate of demand.

The Government seems unwilling or unable to do anything about curbing or supplying the demand for foreign exchange. Some claim they are without a clue of what to do but are just hoping for a miracle to happen, for the oil price to go over $100 a barrel again.

Manufactures who have long since lost their competitive edge because of the high cost and difficulty of doing business in this country, are having difficulty to export their products.

A major foreign exchange earner like Accelor Mittal was allowed to close their steelmaking operation and leave without Government making an effort to assist in keeping the plant in operation. This shortsighted approach not only reduced the foreign exchange inflows but caused new demand from the many downstream steel producers who now have to import material. Manufacturers are finding difficulty to get foreign exchange to buy material and tooling for their production yet find that importers have ample stocks of imported goods to compete.

The Government would be best advised to heed the concerns of Dr Farrell and move quickly to encourage new sources of foreign exchange earnings while attempting to curb excessive demand. Failure to do both is not an option.

R Ballard,

Diego Martin

T&T’s 2016 Olympic boxer Nigel Paul will headline an eight bout card which is a collaboration that involves LAY Management Group (LMG) and the Pearl & Bunty Lara Foundation as it hosts its second edition of the Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle out at Brian Lara’s residence. Bell time is 7 pm.

Tomorrow night’s card will see T&T take on Jamaica. Six of its best amateur boxers will arrive in the country today.

Paul’s opponent Ricardo Brown won the silver medal at last December’s Caribbean Championship. T&T was then unable to send a team because of financial constrains.

Meanwhile, Tyron St Clair will trade punches with Tyron Thomas—two local pugilists that will also be on the card as they continue to prepare for the Commonwealth Youth Games which will take place in Bahamas in July. Nyrell Hosein, who is preparing for the Caribbean Schoolboys Championship in April, will have a date with Kevin Ramdeo.

Reynold Cox, vice president of the Amateur Boxing Association said he wants to thank the cricket legend for the opportunity he continues to present to the young T&T boxers. “It is absolutely wonderful that Mr Lara is doing this again this year. Our boxers need this opportunity and stage to perform on again. I hope that more attention will be given to boxing in this way as the TTBA continue to look for opportunities to keep our boxers busy since it will only make them better at their craft and more skillful. This Tuesday Night Boxing at the Castle provides a very unique and competitive way to aid in the development of our boxers. It’s also an entertaining way to promote the sport, and we at the association are committed to more partnerships like this one as we seek to doing more of the same for our boxers,” Cox explained.

Tomorrow’s card will see Nigel Paul Super (Heavyweight), Jessie Beckles (Lightweight), Aaron Prince (Middleweight), Romell Lezama (Welterweight), Brandon Dennis (Heavyweight) and Michael Alexander (Light welterweight), 64Kg, a Commonwealth Games bronze medalist and one of the boxers who continue to fly the red, white and black national colours with pride when they take on a very good and experience Jamaican team.

T&T Under-20 men’s football team kicked off their quest for a third appearance at a FIFA Under-20 World Cup with a disappointing 1-1 draw with Caribbean Football Union rivals Bermuda in Group C of the 12-team tournament at the Ricardo Saprissa Stadium, San Jose, Costa Rica, yesterday.

Having made FIfa World Cup appearances in 1991 and 2009 under coaches, local Bertille St Clair and Yugoslavian-born Zoran Vranes respectively, former national defender Brian Williams, who came within a point of reaching the 1990 Fifa World Cup in Italy was eager for his young charges to have a good start.

However, it was the Bermudans, who defeated T&T 2-1 in the CFU third place playoff last year who had the first opening in the 13th minute when Osagi Bascombe picked out Oneko Lowe with a gem of a cross, and the latter centre for Tevahn Tyrell, who somehow fired over bar from inside the area to let T&T off the hook.

Nine minutes later, T&T will open the scoring on its first attempt through a neat inter-change of passes down the left flank with captain Jabari Mitchell feeding Noah Powder, who’s defence splitting pass was met by Kathon St Hillaire, who held off Bermuda defender David Jones and fired past goalkeeper Detre Bell.

T&T continued to attack mainly through Powder down the left flank, but the Bermudans were able to clear away the danger before any T&T player could get onto the ball and six minutes before the interval, they had a chance to equalized through the pacey Lowe, but he failed to find the target.

With three minutes left before the break Shane Sandy then wasted a glorious chance to double T&T’s advantage after he could only connect with a weak header straight at Bell after being left unmarked.

Nevertheless, the slim half-time lead was just reward for the Mitchell led squad and marked only the third time in nine Concacaf Under-20 Championship encounters, T&T held a lead.

It was a better start to the second-half for T&T with Powder tested Bell with a ferocious shot within seconds of the restart forcing Bermuda into a quick substitution with Paul Douglas, an ex-West Ham United triallist replacing Zenawi Bowen.

Still it was T&T who created the next opening with a wide open Mitchell missing a clear cut chance to put his team 2-0 ahead on the hour mark.

A minute T&T then suffered a blow when striker Nicholas Dillon picked up what looked a hamstring injury and was replaced by Josh Toussaint

Against the run of play, Bermuda would draw level in the 68th minute through striker Lowe after substitute Jazz Ratteray Smith was played in behind the T&T defence and beat T&T custodian Montel Joseph to the ball before he centred to his open team-mate for an easy tap in

It was an immediate impact off the bench by Smith, who seconds earlier had replaced Tyrell.

T&T midfielder Micah Lansiquot almost found himself in a one-on-one with goalkeeper Bell, but after robbing defender TahzeikoHarris of the ball, he was hacked down by the same player just about six yards outside the 18-yard box to prevent a breakaway.

T&T’s Isaiah Garcia also picked up a late yellow card as both teams struggled to find a winner and had to settle for a share of the points.