The atmosphere at the Canaries Playing Field was electric last Saturday as the Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA) officially launched its Under-13 Girls” Football Championship. The inaugural match featured a clash between Canaries and Dennery, showcasing an impressive display of talent, determination, and youthful enthusiasm for the game.
One standout player made an immediate impact on the tournament, scoring a hat trick that not only electrified the match but also set a vibrant tone for the competition ahead. The launch event was graced by the presence of SLFA President Lyndon Cooper, General Secretary Victor Reid, players, and a modest gathering of spectators. Although the attendance was lower than hoped, the occasion marked a significant advancement for the SLFA”s grassroots initiative aimed at promoting girls” participation in football.
This championship is a notable milestone for girls” football in the region. National women”s team captain Racquel John delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, commending the young athletes for their resilience and discipline. The players demonstrated not only skill but also sportsmanship, as they exchanged handshakes at the conclusion of the match.
The opening contest ended in an exhilarating 3–3 draw, highlighting the depth of talent on the field. Canaries opened the scoring with Dreamer Longville finding the net in the 14th minute, followed by Oneal Clarke adding another goal in the 54th minute. However, Dennery came back fiercely after halftime, with Faye Alphonse dazzling the crowd by scoring three goals in quick succession during the 38th, 40th, and 45th minutes. This remarkable turnaround left Canaries struggling to keep up, resulting in a thrilling second half.
In his comments, Cooper reiterated the SLFA”s commitment to fostering opportunities for girls at every level of the sport. “We want to reaffirm our pledge that everything we do will be in the best interest of you, the players,” he stated. This commitment has already yielded positive results, as Saint Lucia”s women”s national team has been performing admirably in various regional and international competitions.
This year”s championship features eight teams competing for top honors. If the excitement from the opening match is any indication, this tournament promises to be a showcase of emerging talent and a celebration of the increasing passion for girls” football across the island.
In a related development, the SLFA Boys” Under-12 District League football competition, supported by the Ministry of Education, Youth Development and Sports, as well as the Digital Transformation National Lotteries Authority, continued on Saturday, February 7. In the only match at the Grande Riviere Playing Field in Gros Islet, Babonneau triumphed over La Clery with a score of 2–0, thanks to a brace from Leshawn Gordon, including a penalty in the 22nd minute and another goal in the 35th minute.
Meanwhile, at the Technical Centre in Grande Riviere Dennery, the home team kicked off their campaign with a commanding 5–0 victory against Vieux Fort North, featuring a hat trick from Devine Ashale and two goals from Tranzie Donai. In another match, Micoud secured their second consecutive win, defeating Laborie 3–0, with goals scored by Gervie Altidore and Keylan Joseph.
