News

Trust the Process

Published

4 years ago

June 30, 2022

#TurksandCaicos, June 30, 2022 – Several negative statements regarding the U15 basketball team inspired me to write this particular article and those two statements will become our mantra going forward as we continue to trust the process as we work towards getting better. It caused me to question if a large percentage of all basketball enthusiast are aware of and subscribe to the Turks and Caicos Islands Basketball Federation’s vision and how it fits into the organization overall strategic objective. Those of us who found the vision to be meaningful have align ourselves with the vision. However, it does not prevent us from living in the moment and enjoying the advantages and small successes but we recognize that it is also about planning for the future. An effective vision statement clearly outlines the aspirations of any organization and what it hopes to achieve short term, medium term and long term.

The Turks and Caicos Islands U15 basketball team begun its journey several months ago by carrying out a tour of Jamaica where the team was able to participate in a number of basketball games and enjoy a degree of success in regard to the five games that they participated in. They posted a record of 3 victories and two losses. While in Jamaica the President of the Federation learnt that Puerto Rico was chosen as the host country for the 2022 Centrobasket U15 Championship. He immediately begun to lobby the organizers for a spot if any of the qualifying countries were unable to participate in the scheduled event for whatever reason. As faith would have it a spot became available and we were invited to be a part of this year’s Centrobasket Championship thereby realizing one of our strategic objectives sooner than expected. The invite was also historic in that the U15 is the first junior basketball team to formally represent the Turks and Caicos Islands in a formal regional FIBA basketball tournament and the second team to represent our beloved country in a FIBA regional basketball event, the 2004 men’s basketball team was the first.

We began our journey to Puerto Rico on June 16 2022. We arrived in Miami minus two team members and our President, Mr. Sydwell Glasgow who was undergoing minor surgery on the day we departed Providenciales. The 12 member contingent (10 players and 2 coaches) arrived in Puerto Rico several hours later and the remaining two players, who travel to Miami later that day, eventually made it to Puerto Rico later that night. Yep, that was the first leg of the race.

Subsequently, I attended the technical meeting the next day June 17. The technical meeting and Team Turks and Caicos first practice were conducted simultaneously. Head Coach Mervin Forbes oversaw the practice and in my capacity as Secretary-General and Team Manager I represent the team at the Technical Committee meeting. I was required to present the list of players, coaches and other accompany members of the delegation. The passport of each member of the delegation and the official uniforms of the players and coaching staff to ensure that the relevant FIBA requirements were met. The process begun at 2:15 pm on the aforementioned date and time. We got clearance for 9 players plus the coaching staff. Additional information was needed to clear the remaining 3 players and the last remaining evaluation was conducted at 2am the next day. All is well that ends well, the last three remaining players were cleared to compete – TCI contingent 12 players strong.

The journey continued on the 18^th of June 2022 when Team TCI played Team Costa Rica which was the first game of the Centrobasket U15 Championship. In a tightly contested basketball game that was highly competitive we saw a number of lead changes throughout the four quarters of the game. Team Turks and Caicos eventually won the game 67 to 61.

Team Turks and Caicos in its second game played a strong Dominican Republic (DR) team; who came into the event ranked as the third strongest team in the event. They proved to be a handful for the Turks and Caicos as Team Turks and Caicos struggle to keep pace with the DR. Team Turks and Caicos found itself down because of a number self-inflicted wounds by virtue of multiple turnovers and them not finishing when the team had uncontested lay-ups and uncontested jump shots. The DR won that game 100 to 46. It was obvious that Team Turks and Caicos can compete with the DR but too many mistakes and poor execution place them in an unattainable position.

In game three, we saw more of the same from Team Turks and Caicos in the game against Puerto Rico. Our defense were suspect, turnovers and missed opportunities contributed to us not keeping pace with Puerto Rico; the strongest team in the tournament. It was obvious, that we have the complimentary pieces but we need more time to work out the kinks and play together as a unit. Team Turks and Caicos lost the game 123 to 32 to the defending champions.

Next up for Team Turks and Caicos Islands was Mexico, another Latino power house who is ranked number two in this event. They are not skilled as Puerto Rico but the style of play is similar. Defensively and offensively they keep coming at you as was evident in the game played against Team Turks and Caicos. They defeated Turks and Caicos 103 to 39.

Team Turks and Caicos fifth and final game was played against Team Bahamas. This was a battle between two teams that share a similar colonial history and that was once one country. They have a history of competing against each other in the sport of basketball. Whenever they compete it is for bragging rights and the losing team is reminded by the winning team, whenever the opportunity presents itself, that when last we met on the field which country won. Team Bahamas defeated Team Turks and Caicos 79 to 56.

Team Turks and Caicos have a number of players whose outstanding individual performance during the tournament caused them to be named in the point standing and rebound standing: Dylan Morris is third in scoring with 18.3 points per game just below Puerto Rico’s Felipe Andres, the second leading scorer with 18.4 points per game. Roldjudson Lacossade (RJ) is top rebounder with highest rebounding percentage with 15.8 rebounds per game.

Team Turks and Caicos finish like we started: we played gritty, hustling, resolute basketball. Despite being undersize, having less experience then our competition and having to contend with injuries along way. Team Turks and Caicos have nothing to be a shame about – they met the giants on the field of battle who were more equipped and better prepared than they were but they held their own with just a “sling shot and a couple of stones”: (Dylan Morris, Roldjudson Lacossade (RJ), Harry Taylor, Ethan Taylor, Adin Missick, Malachi Missick, Dillion Forbes, Takeem Williams, Rezon Carmichael, T’kai Delancy, Kymani Carter and Onai Lightbourne). Historic Diamonds in the rough.

There are number of persons we need to thank because without the cooperation and support of the following individuals and business establishments the Federation would not have been able to realize this enormous task. I start by the thanking the parents of the young men that was selected to compete on the U15 basketball team. Thanks to the principals who made arrangements for the young men to sit their exams subsequent to returning to the Turks and Caicos Islands. We take this opportunity to thank Hon. Rachel Taylor and the Hon. Otis Morris for their individual roles in ensuring that we were able to attend this prestigious event by making sure all the pieces fell into place. We express our appreciation to the Chairman, Director and Staff of the Sports Commission for the part they played in assisting the Federation as they went beyond the call of duty to ensure that our athletes had access to the facilities and other much need assistance.

We also take this opportunity to thank our major sponsor TDMG Concordia. The company sponsor the team, the coaches and the Federation Executives uniforms. We are extremely grateful for your much needed assistance. We also take this opportunity to thank Long Bay Express for sponsoring the uniforms that was used in Jamaica and were used in Puerto Rico as our practice uniforms. We would be remiss if we did not thank the various employees in a number of Government Departments for assisting us in crunch time. Blessings to all of you, especially the indigenous population and those living and working in the Turks and Caicos Islands who watch the games on Facebook and cheered us on.

Press Release: TCI Basketball Federation

News

Academy Eagles FC crowned Beaches Turks & Caicos sponsored Provo Men’s Premier League champions 2026

Published

2 days ago

May 13, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The Academy Eagles FC were crowned champions of the Beaches sponsored Men’s Provo Premier League after securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over defending champions, SWA Sharks, at the Venetian Road football field.

In a match that featured a mix of youth and experienced players, the Academy Eagles eventually broke through late in the game when Jean Innocent found the back of the net in the 77th minute. Innocent doubled the lead in the 95th minute from the penalty spot to clinch the championship.

Academy Eagles head coach Aaron Lawrence expressed immense pride in his squad’s performance. “I applaud the team for their discipline throughout the season and their ability to stick to the plan heading into this game,” Lawrence shared, adding special praise for team captain Myherwens Varis for “following tactical instructions throughout the game.”

“This victory would not have been possible without the thoughtful support from our main sponsor, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort. This is the second year running with this relationship. This has provided exposure for the semi-professional players and the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association,” Lawrence noted.

On the opposing sideline, SWA Sharks coach Jack Watson was modest in defeat. While he noted that his team executed their strategy well, he recognized the Eagles’ determination. “I congratulate the Eagles team for wanting the win more,” Watson said. “We played to the game plan, but I fault a lapse in judgment that gave up two goals.”

Beaches Turks and Caicos, returning for a second year of sponsoring the competition, expressed ongoing dedication to youth football in the islands. General Manager Deryk Meany shared his enthusiasm, “I am satisfied with the impact that the league is having on youth development throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands and our resort’s involvement in fielding a team for the competition.” The final phase of the tournament now transitions to a knockout format among the eight participating clubs.

League executives also weighed in on the success of the season. Provo Premier League President, Phillip Baptiste, expressed his satisfaction with the league format and highlighted the significant progress made by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) over the course of the tournament.

“This is what true success looks like as corporate partners like Beaches Turks and Caicos resort joins forces with the TCIFA in providing an avenue for youth development and sports. While we are happy for the continued sponsorship, we are anticipating more support from other entities. This is not only a win for sports, it is a win for development here in the TCI,” Baptiste shared.

TCIFA Technical Director Dane Ritchie echoed these positive sentiments, pointing to the league’s development as an avenue for showcasing local talent on a broader stage. “Our team continues to learn as they work on developing talents with the youth players, as well as providing a broader marketing avenue for the league to be seen internationally with FIFA+ streaming,” Ritchie said.

He added, “the TCIFA commends the growth of the coaching staff involved in the league and looks forward to further enhancing the competition to make them more competitive in the Caribbean leagues.”

Beaches FC and Cheshire Hall FC have both punched their tickets for the first two spots in the semifinals with a 2-0 win over Teachers’ Young Strikers and 5-0 thrashing of Provo United respectively in the first two quarter finals.

News

Beaches Turks & Caicos celebrates Stars at its Annual Prestige Awards

Published

2 days ago

May 13, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: — The French Village main stage at Beaches Turks and Caicos resort was transformed into a dazzling beacon of green and gold as the resort celebrated its highest achievers. Under the inspiring banner of “One Team, One Vision, Endless Achievements,” the annual Prestige Awards recently closed the chapter on an exceptional 2025.

More than 120 nominees across twelve distinct categories walked the red carpet, greeted by flashing cameras and the cheering of their peers. The evening was laced with vibrant entertainment that kept the energy high between award presentations. Attendees were also treated to an exquisite five-course menu, carefully curated to match the prestige of the occasion and celebrate the rich culinary talent present at the resort.

The event served as a powerful reminder of the dedication required to operate one of the premier family resorts in the Caribbean. General Manager Deryk Meany took the stage to address the audience while reflecting on a year of resilience, innovation and unparalleled guest service.

“This is a celebratory milestone that as leaders we are happy to share with the stars of the hospitality industry,” Meany shared. “You have shown the world the true mettle of leadership and commitment here at Beaches Turks and Caicos.”

To further recognize unique contributions to the resort’s operational success, Meany personally distributed the General Manager’s Special Awards. These honours were bestowed upon Eric ‘Cookie’ Johnson from the kitchen, Harriet Beeput from administration, and Javier Sarita from the entertainment department for their exceptional behind-the-scenes dedication.

The climax of the evening featured the announcement of the resort’s most prestigious overarching awards. Felipe Luzardo Neira from the kitchen took home the MVP of the Year (Manager of the Year) award, while Chad Peterkin from engineering and maintenance was named All-Rounder of the Year (Supervisor of the Year). The loyalty & travel department proved their collective strength by securing the A-Team of the Year title.

Individual team members were also recognized for their ultimate service standards. Deandra Astwood from the front office earned the Platinum Team Member of the Year award. The highest individual honour, Diamond Team Member of the Year, was awarded to Javain Campbell from the restaurant department. Campbell used his moment in the spotlight to highlight the importance of cross-departmental collaboration and community outreach.

“This accolade is a testament to the commitment and teamwork within all the departments of the resort,” Campbell noted after receiving his award. “The opportunity to volunteer at different Sandals Foundation activities as well as be a mentor to other team members means the world to me. This achievement will allow me to do more in leadership as I have been tasked with representing the entire team here at the resort.”

The Prestige Awards ensured that every facet of the resort’s operations received proper recognition. From environmental sustainability to guest entertainment, the specific category winners showcased a wide array of talents:

Movers & Shakers was awarded to Katherine ‘Tinkerbell’ Jiminez from the entertainment department
Legendary Team Member was secured by Kadian Smith from the restaurant
Circle of Joy went to Emanie Jocelyn Seide from security and loss prevention
Earth Guardian was claimed by Bernard Florvil from engineering and maintenance
Sandals Foundation Sentinel was awarded to Tanya Swann from administration
Standing Ovation Award was proudly accepted by Richard Myers from the laundry team
Money Maker Award went to Teesha McCallum-Hamilton from the resort shop
Heart of the House Hotel Manager’s Award was presented to Carlton Biggs from stewarding department
People’s Choice Award was won by Claire Ann Balones from the off site department
Pacesetter Award was given to Kassandra Henry from accounts & cost control
Founder’s Circle Award was claimed by Susan Outten from the restaurant

As the night drew to a close, the focus shifted to the rigorous selection process that led to the evening’s celebrations. The Prestige Awards do not merely look at a single moment of excellence, but rather evaluate a full twelve months of unwavering dedication to the guest experience. Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby highlighted the rewarding journey these team members took to reach the main stage.

“This event is a culmination of a number of activities for the resort’s leadership and the team members who have been exemplary and consistent throughout the year,” Coleby shared. “Congratulations are in order for each nominee as they have been crowned winners for the different months of 2025.”

With the trophies distributed and the 2025 season officially wrapped, the staff at Beaches Turks and Caicos now look forward. Fueled by the “One Team, One Vision” mantra, these award winners are already setting the standard for another year of endless achievements.

Health

29 Million Strong, the World Salutes Nurses as International Nurses Day is Observed

Published

3 days ago

May 12, 2026

Deandrea Hamilton

On Tuesday May 12, the world pauses to honor one of humanity’s most trusted, exhausted, resilient and indispensable professions — nursing.

International Nurses Day is observed annually on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing, and comes at a time when global healthcare systems continue to rely heavily on nurses carrying extraordinary emotional, physical and professional burdens.

According to the World Health Organization, there are an estimated 29 million nurses worldwide, making nursing the largest professional group within the global healthcare workforce. Yet despite their numbers, many countries continue to face severe nursing shortages, burnout crises and migration challenges as healthcare demands rise faster than staffing levels.

Still, nurses remain the heartbeat of healthcare.

They are present at life’s first breath and often its final moments. They work through hurricanes, pandemics, emergencies and violence. They calm fear, interpret pain, comfort families and frequently become the bridge between doctors, patients and hope itself.

In small island nations like those across the Caribbean, nurses often carry even greater responsibility — serving communities where resources may be stretched, specialists limited and healthcare systems under constant pressure.

This year’s observance again shines a spotlight not only on the compassion nurses bring to their profession, but also on the growing global call for better pay, safer working environments, improved mental health support and stronger investment in healthcare staffing.

For many people, the most memorable face in healthcare is not always the surgeon or specialist — it is the nurse who stayed a little longer, explained a little more gently or cared a little more deeply during a difficult moment.

Tomorrow’s observance is therefore more than ceremonial.

It is a reminder that behind every functioning hospital, clinic, emergency room, health center, operating theatre and recovery ward stands a nurse — often overworked, sometimes underappreciated, but consistently essential.

To nurses across The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, the Caribbean and the wider world: thank you for showing up, even on the hardest days.

Developed by Deandrea Hamilton • with ChatGPT (AI) • edited by Magnetic Media.