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• GC Foster College and Centenary University sign MOU for Track and Field certification course

  Sports Education is the focus of the collaboration between Centenary University, New Jersey USA and GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport based in Jamaica. The collaboration will feature a Track & Field Coaching 2.0 Certification program being offered this April – June for enrollment in the USA.

  This program will see the two educational institutions expand certificate offerings also on other sporting disciplines. The format is in-person and online. Special events like conferences and symposiums will also be part of the agreement.

  The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed mid March by Centenary University’s first African American President, Dr. Dale Caldwell along with the G. C. Foster College Physical Education & Sport, Principal - Mr. Maurice Wilson, OD.

  Both leaders were elated at the partnership being sealed and Dr Caldwell said, “this unique partnership broadens Centenary University’s presence in international markets and creates extraordinary opportunities for students at both institutions.” He went on to add that “it also opens the door for potential new NCAA Division III athletic programs at Centenary, including men’s and women’s track and field.”

  GC Foster College Principal, Maurice Wilson expressed his appreciation and noted that “The College is continuing on his pathway to developing the best of Jamaica with sport education as one of its core focus. This partnership is a step in the right direction and we know the impact it will create. We are pleased that Centenary is on board with us and we welcome the broadening of our reach and scope of work.”

  “The choice to go with Track and Field first, was a no-brainer.” both leaders of the institutions agreed.

  The online proceeding was witnessed by a cross section of officials from both institutions.

  Managing Director of PPIVOTT, O’Neil Walters is responsible for bringing the two institutions together and he also was online to witness the signing of the MOU.

  Walters said, “We are proud of this intercultural partnership in sports education that represents first step action within the broad mission of the brand” said O’Neil Walters, Managing Partner, PPIVOTT. “As we embark on creating brand identity solutions to uplift our people (talents) in key the areas of sports, entertainment and the arts, we will be conducting Jamaica’s first Peak Performance Summit in June 2024 to coincide with the end of the first Track & Field Certification program.”

   

• Ricketts strikes gold at Torneo International tourney in Cuba

  Jamaica’s Samuel Ricketts emerged champion at Cuba’s Torneo International competition when he defeated top seeded Yeison Alvarez two sets to one in Sunday's final in Havana.

  After ousting the third seed Matthew Abela in the semis 21-17 21-3 in just 37 minutes on Saturday, the second seeded Ricketts outplayed Alvarez in the final 21-18 7-21 21-19 in the hour-long title decider.

  In women’s play, Jamaican Tahlia Richardson advanced to the semis where she was narrowly beaten 12-21 23-21 27-25 by Nikte Sotomayor, the Guatemalan top seed who lost the final to Cuban Taymara Pupo.

  Guyanese Priyanna Ramdhani reached the quarterfinals where she lost to Pupo.

• Jamaica Badminton Academy: Soaring to new heights

  In the vibrant world of badminton, the Jamaica Badminton Academy stands as a beacon of excellence, cultivating young talents and charting a course for success on both national and international stages. Led by the dynamic duo of Matthew Lee and Kenneth Anglin, the academy is not just a training ground for shuttlecock enthusiasts but a nurturing space that combines athletic prowess with educational opportunities.

  "The Jamaica Badminton Academy is dedicated to providing a holistic platform for children to thrive in the world of badminton," shared Matthew Lee, the Director of the academy, alongside Kenneth Anglin. "Our mission goes beyond developing top-level athletes; we aim to instill essential values such as discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship."

  Recently, Lee proudly shared the academy's remarkable achievements. "We currently have a lot of players selected to the national teams, especially for juniors. In the recent national junior championships, we had four medallists, including the remarkable Zoelle Jamel securing the Under 15 Girls Championship. This showcases the undeniable growth and potential of our talented athletes."

  As the academy gears up for upcoming local tournaments, including the Tournament of Kings/Queens, Doubles Mania, Junior Classics, and the All Jamaica Super Series, Lee emphasized the pivotal role these events play in talent development. "Our unique schedule features multiple events, allowing young players to gain valuable experience in badminton tournaments. A new ranking system is set to be implemented (by the local governing body), providing players with the opportunity to earn points, leading to higher-tier tournaments and international representation," he stated.

  Looking towards the global stage, the Jamaica Badminton Academy has its sights set on the XXXII PAN AM JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024 and the CARIBACO International Junior Championships. "We are particularly targeting the Junior Pan American Games, and we have designed a special training program for our high-performing athletes. Additionally, we are actively seeking sponsors to support these players' representation on the international stage," Lee explained.

  The academy extends a warm welcome to players from primary, prep, and high schools to join their training programs. Beyond honing badminton skills, this presents a unique opportunity for children to enhance university applications, pursue scholarships, and unlock future job opportunities.

  As the badminton calendar unfolds, marked by exciting local tournaments and international competitions, the Jamaica Badminton Academy is poised to make waves, leaving an indelible mark on the global badminton landscape. "Our academy believes in playing bold and reaching for the stars," concludes Director Matthew Lee. The shuttlecock soars, and with it, the dreams of young athletes under the tutelage of a visionary academy that believes in nurturing talent with passion and purpose.

   

  Upcoming Tournaments:

   

  Local Tournaments:

   

  February 24th - 25th: Tournament of Kings/Queens

  March: Club League, JG X Bad Boys Invitational

  April 20th - 21st: Doubles Mania

  May 18th - 19th: Junior Classics

  July: Summer Swing

  September: Club Knockouts

  November 9th - 10th & 16th - 17th: All Jamaica

  December 7th - 8th: Super Series

  International Tournaments:

   

  July 11 - 13: XXXII PAN AM JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024 TEAM EVENT CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

  July 15-19: XXXII PAN AM JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024 - U13 - U17 CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

  July 15-19: XXXII PAN AM JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024 - U19 CONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

  August 21 - 25: CARIBACO International Junior Championships