A new chapter in Antigua and Barbuda’s sporting story was written on Thursday, October 2, 2025, as the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) officially launched the CAF–ABFA Women’s Premier League, a groundbreaking partnership with the Calvin Ayre Foundation that promises to elevate women’s football like never before.
The launch, held at the ABFA Technical Centre, was filled with emotion, optimism, and purpose. From the opening invocation by Neil Cochrane to the final display of the teams’ new uniforms, the event underscored one resounding message: “It’s our time now.”
A League Built on Purpose
Technical Director Mr. Sowerby Gomes described the league as “more than just competition, it’s a declaration that women’s football is here to thrive, inspire, and transform.”
Gumbs outlined seven key goals for the league: improving playing standards, developing players holistically, raising coaching excellence, instilling professionalism, creating clear pathways to national team selection, promoting community engagement, and strengthening partnerships to sustain growth.
“This league will serve as the foundation for future success stories,” Gomes said confidently. “It’s where our girls can showcase their talent, passion, and determination.”
Government’s Commitment to Football Development
Minister of Sports Hon. Daryll Matthew delivered one of the day’s biggest announcements, confirming that the government via APUA will absorb the ABFA’s utility expenses going forward. The move, he said, recognizes the FA’s significant role in national sports development and will allow more resources to be directed toward football programs.
“It’s a fantastic time to be alive and a fantastic time for football,” the minister said. “We cannot continue to expect excellence from our associations without giving them the tools and support they need to grow. Today, we’re correcting a long-standing imbalance and ensuring that football can flourish.”
He also praised the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Sports and the ABFA, which allows school football matches to be played at the national turf under professional conditions with certified referees and proper facilities.
Empowering Women Through Football
ABFA Senior Vice President Gwen Salmon hailed the collaboration as a defining moment for women’s football in the twin-island nation.
“Today is a proud moment for the ABFA,” Salmon said. “This partnership is not just about the present, it’s an investment in the future of our female players. It gives our women the platform they deserve to lead, manage, and shine in football.”
Salmon also revealed that prize money for the 2025 season has been increased across the board, with the championship team set to receive $12,000, while runners-up will earn $10,000 and $8,000 respectively. Teams will also receive weekly incentives—$500 for wins and $250 for draws, funded directly by the Calvin Ayre Foundation.
A Half-Million-Dollar Commitment
Representing the Calvin Ayre Foundation, Jamilla Kirwan brought the room to its feet when she announced that the foundation would inject over EC$500,000 over five years into women’s football.
“When the FA approached us with this proposal, Ambassador Calvin Ayre’s response was immediate and enthusiastic—‘Yes, I love this program. Let’s support it,’” Kirwan shared.
The Foundation’s sponsorship will cover uniforms, insurance for all players, match officials, venue security, cleaning, and operational costs throughout the league. Beyond that, CAF will also collaborate with the ABFA on the Calvin Ayre Player Identification Combine, which brings international scouts and coaches to Antigua to spot emerging talent.
