The Bequia Basketball Association (BBA) says it is pleased with the continued progress of its weekly youth basketball camps at the Clive Tannis Hard Court in Port Elizabeth, where young players from across the island are developing their skills, teamwork, and love for the game.
The latest session held on Sunday was made especially memorable with the presence of three distinguished Vincentian basketball figures: Taiwan-based basketball coach and Founder of the Breakthrough Basketball Academy, Craiglee Sam; Austin Derrick, who has played professionally in Taiwan and Hong Kong; and FIBA-qualified referee Shem Ollivierre.
“The association is deeply grateful for their willingness to share their knowledge and inspire the next generation of Bequia’s basketball talent,” a press release said.
The BBA said it was also honoured by a visit by Prime Minister Godwin Friday, who attended the session to observe the progress of the young participants and encourage the programme’s continued development.
The association extends sincere appreciation to its dedicated local coaches who volunteer their time each week, including Kelan Edwards, Denroy Hutchins, Keithroy Lavia and Jermaine John.
“The BBA takes particular pride in Jermaine, who will soon represent both Bequia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines on the regional stage as a member of the Men’s Senior National Basketball Team competing in the FIBA AmeriCup 2029 Caribbean Pre-Qualifiers in Guyana this July.”
The Bequia Basketball Association also thanks its volunteers, mainly Diane King and Alana Phillips, as well as Adonal Foyle, for donating basketball jerseys for the children.
As preparations continue for the upcoming 24th Annual Bequia Basketball Tournament, the BBA will soon begin dividing camp participants into teams so they can gain valuable game experience by participating in the tournament.
Additionally, the association is preparing to host a referee workshop to develop a new generation of basketball officials and strengthen the future of the sport in Bequia.
The Bequia Basketball Association said it remains committed to creating opportunities for young people through basketball and looks forward to seeing the continued growth and success of its youth programme.