The Cayman Islands National Junior Squash team showcased their talent and determination as they competed in the highly anticipated Caribbean Championships this summer in St. Vincent from July 15-22. The team, consisting of 4 girls and 10 boys, went head-to-head against juniors from Barbados, British Virgin Islands (BVI), Bermuda, Jamaica, Guyana, Trinidad, and the host country, St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
For many of the young athletes, this marked their inaugural participation in the tournament, while a few others had the privilege of competing last year in Guyana.
The composition of the squad was based on the outcomes of the national junior championships, which were held earlier in March. Following their selection, the team dedicated themselves to rigorous training sessions, aimed at refining their skills and enhancing their fitness levels. The primary goal was to provide them with the best possible opportunity to secure favorable finishing positions in the competition.
The hard work and dedication of the Cayman Islands National Junior Squash team paid off, as they brought home a collection of well-deserved medals. Among the notable achievements was 10 year old Bodhi Philip’s impressive performance in the U11 category securing the plate and an overall ranking of 5th in the Caribbean.
Jace Jervis, the U19 player, competed in his seventh and final Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) competition, winning the Leadership and Sportsmanship award.
Fifteen-year-old Milanna Lamontagne, competing in her second Caribbean Championships, also secured third place in mixed doubles alongside U19 Junior, Jace Jervis. Lamontagne was new to the age group and persevered through nerves and significantly delayed play times and was able to grow in stature and quality as the tournament progressed, resulting in her joint medal with Jervis.
The girls’ division celebrated their victories as well, with Doireann Lynch and Kaylee Pierre shining brightly and securing the plate of both the U15 and U13 categories respectively. Pierre, a newcomer to the sport, exhibited remarkable promise by securing the plate in her age group. Her swift progress as a first-time CASA competitor has ignited anticipation about the extent to which she will continue to excel in the sport.
The Caribbean Championships not only served as a platform for intense competition but also fostered an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual respect among junior squash players from across the region. The event highlighted the dedication of these young athletes to their craft, the importance of teamwork, and the thrill of competition.
Reflecting on the team’s achievements, Janet Sairsingh, President of the Cayman Islands Squash Association, expressed her pride in the team’s performance and their commitment to representing their country on the international stage. She also acknowledged the coaches and support staff for their tireless efforts in preparing the athletes for this prestigious event. Also special thanks to Artex, Deloitte, Marbury, Scotts Equipment, Cox, Alba Elevators, NBC, Itg Export and Design and Cayman Islands Sotheby’s International Realty who without their contribution this would not have been possible.
As the sun sets on this year’s Caribbean Championships, the Cayman Islands National Junior Squash team emerges as a source of inspiration, showcasing
the immense talent and potential that exists within the region’s junior squash community. Their journey reminds us that with dedication, perseverance, and teamwork, these young athletes can overcome challenges and achieve remarkable success.
The Association invites juniors from ages 10-18 that maybe interested in the sport to send an email to [email protected] for more information on how to join the program.
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