Ministers Highlight Youth and Sports Investment at North Windward Netball Tournament Launch 

By S.Browne. Updated 2:51 p.m., Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The government’s commitment to youth empowerment and sports development was underscored on Sunday, February 15, 2026, with the official opening of the North Windward Netball Tournament at the Fancy Hard Court.

Minister of Social Welfare and Community Empowerment, Ecclesiastical Affairs and National Heritage and Area Representative for North Windward, Shevern John, reaffirmed her dedication to advancing sporting initiatives within the constituency. She encouraged members of the corporate community to partner with upcoming activities on the North Windward calendar, noting that sponsorship provides opportunities for visibility while supporting youth development.

Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture and Creative Industries, Kaschaka Cupid, also reiterated Government’s continued investment in youth and sports, identifying netball as one of the country’s premier sporting disciplines. Drawing on his experience as a former national cricketer, he spoke about the value of sport in building lasting relationships and personal discipline.

He further noted that while the tournament is utilising the existing facilities at Fancy, Government remains committed to upgrading and improving sports infrastructure to expand opportunities for athletes and communities across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The ceremony commenced with an opening prayer delivered by Miss Joyella Roberts. Chairperson of the proceedings, Gweneth Baptiste-Stoddard, welcomed patrons and outlined several activities planned for 2026 as part of the North Windward development calendar.

Chairman of the North Windward Sports Committee, Collin Stay, encouraged young people to remain focused and to take advantage of the opportunities being created through sport. Secretary of the Netball Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Kerri-Ann Small, also addressed the gathering, reiterating the association’s commitment to grassroots netball development and strengthening the sport nationwide.

The tournament was officially declared open by Minister Shevern John. Activities following the ceremony included a Netorama competition and an All-Male versus All-Female exhibition match.

Opening results saw Overland Ballers capturing the March Past title, while Ball Blazers secured victory in the Netorama competition. The defending champions, Overland Ballers, will be seeking to retain their title in this year’s tournament.

Matches continue at the Fancy Hard Court on Saturday, February 21, when Owia Government School faces Sandy Bay Government School in the Development Division at 3:30 p.m., followed by Ball Blazers taking on Overland Netball Team in Senior Division action at 4:30 p.m.

On Sunday, February 22, Fancy Beamers will compete against Langley Park Government School in the Development Division at 3:30 p.m., while G Spot Simple Netters meet Trail Blazers in the Senior Division at 4:30 p.m.

Organisers expressed appreciation to teams, officials, volunteers, sponsors and supporters for their contributions to the successful opening of the tournament.

END

The information was sourced from a press release sent to us by the North Windward Constituency Office.