Local News
BVI Cricket Association Prepares to Launch Youth Coaching Program Following Safeguarding Training
The British Virgin Islands Cricket Association (BVICA) has taken a major step toward the development of youth cricket by completing its first Safeguarding Course for coaches, a prerequisite for launching a territory-wide Youth Cricket Coaching Program.
The course, held recently and facilitated by Morris Mark of the BVI Football Association, covered critical aspects of safeguarding, including child protection, ethical standards, and fostering supportive environments for young athletes. The nine participants who completed the training are now equipped to ensure the safety and well-being of youth cricketers, marking a pivotal moment for the sport’s development in the Virgin Islands.
“This training is an essential step in laying the foundation for youth cricket in the BVI,” said Acting BVICA President Richard Francis. “With safeguarding at the forefront, we can provide a secure and nurturing environment for our young players to excel. This initiative reflects our commitment to not just growing the sport, but doing so responsibly.”
The Youth Cricket Coaching Program, set to debut in the coming weeks, will introduce cricket to children across the islands while emphasizing skills development and personal growth. The program’s objective is to nurture a new generation of cricketers who are not only talented athletes but also well-rounded individuals.
Trainer and facilitator Morris Mark commended the BVICA for prioritizing safeguarding, noting that it is an essential component of modern sports coaching. “Creating safe spaces for young athletes is critical to their development and enjoyment of the sport. These newly trained coaches now have the knowledge and tools to make a lasting positive impact,” Mark said.
The program is expected to include coaching sessions, skill-building exercises, and opportunities for young players to engage in matches and tournaments. By incorporating safeguarding principles into every aspect of the program, the BVICA hopes to establish a gold standard for youth sports in the region.
“This initiative goes beyond cricket,” Francis added. “It’s about building a culture where sports can thrive, and where every young player feels safe, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.”
The BVICA’s focus on safeguarding aligns with broader efforts to elevate the standards of youth sports in the Virgin Islands. The association’s leadership has expressed optimism that the Youth Cricket Coaching Program will inspire a deeper appreciation for the sport, while simultaneously preparing local talent to compete on larger stages in the future.
The British Virgin Islands is participating in the Subzonal 2.3.3 Absolute and Women’s Chess Championships, taking place from April 11 to 18 at the Cascadia Hotel and Conference Center in St. Ann’s, Trinidad and Tobago.
The tournament, sanctioned by the World Chess Federation (FIDE), brings together players from across the Caribbean and parts of Central America, including representatives from Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, Curaçao, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, and others.
Representing the BVI in the Absolute Section are Simon Potter and Jordan Hinds. In the Women’s Section, Alexis Ganigan and Tiandra Scatliffe are competing. The event is organized by the Trinidad and Tobago Chess Association in conjunction with the Confederation of Chess for the Americas (CCA).
The Subzonal tournament serves as a qualifier for future zonal and continental events under the FIDE calendar. According to the TTCA, this year’s competition includes nine rounds under classical time control and follows international pairing standards.
Updates and full standings are available via the official tournament website at chesstt.org.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has announced plans to increase enforcement of noise pollution regulations in 2025, with a particular focus on motor scooters and heavy-duty lorries that have drawn repeated complaints from the public.
Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Dariel Robinson, who heads Operations, confirmed that the RVIPF will be prioritising enforcement of the Noise Control and Abatement Act (1996) this year. The move comes in response to growing concerns from residents about the impact of excessively loud vehicles on quality of life throughout the Territory.
“We continue to receive regular reports from members of the community regarding noise disturbances caused by motorbikes and large lorries,” Robinson said. “These disturbances, especially during late-night and early-morning hours, are affecting the peace and well-being of our residents, particularly the elderly.”
Under the Act, individuals found in breach may face arrest, charges, and court proceedings. The RVIPF is encouraging all vehicle owners—particularly those operating scooters and commercial lorries—to ensure their vehicles are in compliance with the legal noise limits.
“This is a matter of public interest,” Robinson added. “We are asking the public to revisit the details of the Act and to share this information with others who may be affected. Enforcement will begin in earnest in 2025, and we intend to take firm action where necessary.”
The RVIPF reiterated its commitment to ensuring safer, quieter communities across the Virgin Islands and is appealing to the public to support efforts aimed at reducing noise pollution and fostering a more respectful living environment.
Premier Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley was on hand Sunday to present the Guy Eldridge Spirit of Enthusiasm Award to Jim Vos, skipper of Warthog, in recognition of his dedication to youth sailing in the Virgin Islands.
The award was one of the highlights of the final day of the 52nd BVI Spring Regatta, which wrapped up a week of racing on the waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
While the early part of the week saw strong winds and challenging conditions, sailors were treated to classic Caribbean weather for the finale—sunny skies, steady breeze, and warm temperatures.
Despite the tough start, most crews found their rhythm and stayed consistent through the final races. The mix of international and local talent made for a strong showing across the board.
The regatta closed out with a lively celebration at the Regatta Village—sailors, supporters, and organizers coming together to toast another successful year on the water.
Full list of class winners:
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Warthog – Jim Vos (ANT)
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El Ocaso – Tony Mack (GBR)
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Huey Too – Bernie Evan-Wong (ANT)
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Bravissimo – Mike Feierabend (USVI)
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Painkiller/Sea-Battical – Alice Martin (USA)
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Jitterbug – Dr. Robin Tattersall (BVI)
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La Novia – Georges Coutu (DOM)
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Layla – Andrew Anne (GBR)
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Ting A Ling – Graham Harney (BVI)
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Cricket – Sandy Mair (BVI)
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Flying Jenny – Sandy Askew (USA)
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