The 32nd edition of the Antigua and Barbuda National Sports Awards brought together the country ’ s top athletes, coaches, and administrators for an evening dedicated to celebrating sporting excellence, perseverance and legacy. Hosted by Ursil Charles Jr. and Samoa Kirby at the Multipurpose Cultural and Exhibition Centre, the prestigious event was held under the theme “Legends in the Making: Shaping Our Sporting Legacy. ”
The evening ’ s top individual accolades were awarded to:
- Senior Sportsman of the Year: Alzarri Joseph (Cricket)
- Senior Sportswoman of the Year: Kimberly Percival (Bodybuilding) – securing her fifth title
- Junior Sportsman of the Year: Jewel Andrew (Cricket)
- Junior Sportswoman of the Year: Tyra Fenton (Athletics)
In recognition of their commitment to both academics and athletics, the junior Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year were each awarded scholarships valued at US $20,000 through the Prime Minister’ s Scholarship Committee. Additionally, the Coach and Sports Official of the Year honorees received scholarships from the Board of Education to pursue studies in Sports Management at UWI Five Islands.
A solemn moment of silence was observed in memory of Chantel Crump, whose tragic passing led to the rescheduling of the awards ceremony. The programme also featured a poignant memorial dance by Queen’ s Class, accompanied by a stirring rendition of I Was Here, paying tribute to sports figures lost over the past year.
The keynote address was delivered by Lyford Inverary, Chief Operating Officer of Cricket West Indies, who emphasized that greatness is not merely inherited but forged through dedication and preparation. Reflecting on his personal journey of academic and professional challenges, Inverary encouraged young athletes to embrace perseverance, reminding them, “You ’re not just playing for today, you ’re shaping the future. ”
The evening was further enlivened by musical performances from Dana Barnes and Asha Otto. Barnes delivered a powerful rendition of Hall of Fame, while Otto dedicated her original song Home to the indomitable spirit of the islands.
