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Be Creative to Survive

The future of sport clubs in Barbados is under pressure to stay viable and some of them may not stand the test of time if the management of these clubs do not implement strategies to halt their decline. This is the assertion by Steven Leslie the manager of Marketing and Communications at the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) on Tuesday night as he was delivering the feature lecture at the Empire Club as the club celebrates its 109th anniversary. 

Empire Club motto is “Strength Through Adversity” and Leslie’ topic was fittingly ‘Unity Is Strength: Challenges in The Club System”. Giving an historical context to the origins of clubs in Barbados Mr. Leslie indicated that changes in community life has changed club culture. Clubs were, at a point in time, the hub of community and social interaction as well as a place to learn and develop skills in sports. With the changing times clubs are no longer central to the lives of people. Leslie asserted that most people who are in clubs have a narrow and personal agenda rather than an interest in the sustenance and growth of the club. Lots of people are in the club to “Express their sporting talent,” said Leslie.

The education system is closely linked to cricket and club culture. In the 1860’s there was a deliberate effort to focus on sports, specifically cricket, and this resulted in vibrancy in club cricket. In modern Barbados the school system is more interested in getting the school curriculum completed than in using sports as an integral component.

Leslie encouraged the current management team of the 109 old club to be creative in finding ways to evolve and preserve the club culture. The income generating model must also suit the times “The reality is such that to have a sustainable club you must have a viable finance revenue generating model. It cannot rely solely on the subscriptions that might be paid on an annual basis, and it cannot rely solely on having social activities. Those strategies are not going to allow a club to be able to be sustainable in 2023.” said Leslie.

The BCA official congratulated Empire on its 109th Anniversary and advised them to document the life of the club so that future generations will have something to look at.

Steven Leslie’s well-researched and delivered lecture found favor with all those who were at Empire, the Home of Champions. (Article by: Christopher Williams)

Sports

DEHRING NEW CEO OF CRICKET WEST INDIES

Article by David Harris

Chris Dehring is the new chief executive officer of Cricket West Indies (CWI) the Jamaican was selected from a pool of over 50 applicants representing Europe, Australia, India, Afghanistan, and the Caribbean. 

He replaces Johnny Greave who step down from the position in October after seven years.  

A successful businessman and entrepreneur, Dehring is the founder of SportsMax, and the co-founder of Jamaica’s first investment bank Dehring, Bunting, and Golding which grew into a financial powerhouse and was eventually acquired by Scotiabank. 

His entrepreneurial portfolio includes ReadyTV Jamaica’s first digital broadcast service, and ReadyNet the country’s first satellite internet provider. Dehring also served at Cable & Wireless where he was a member of the Senior Executive Membership Team. 

A former chief marketing officer of CWI, Dehring was the managing director and chief executive officer of the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup 2007 in the Caribbean. 

“West Indies cricket has always held a special place in my heart. As a unifying force and a symbol of pride for our region, I am honoured to return to an organisation that holds great significance to our people. Together with the CWI team and stakeholders, I am committed to driving innovation, fostering talent, and reigniting the passion for West Indies cricket, both at home and globally”. Dehring said. 

 His tenure begins on February 1, he will be based at CWI headquarters at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua. 

Meanwhile, Darren Sammy has been named the coach for all senior West Indies men’s teams and will take charge of the Test side from April 1. The former West Indies captain was named the white-ball head coach in May 2023, while Andre Coley took over the reins of the Test side at the same time.  

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Sports

Black Knight Bikers Celebrate 10 Years of Brotherhood, Adventure, and Community Service

Article by Deanzer Roberts

As part of their 10th-anniversary celebrations, the Black Knight Bikers Club hosted an Awards and Gala Night to honor the achievements of its members and sponsors and to commemorate a decade of camaraderie, resilience, and shared passion for biking. 

The event, held at the Coast Guard Base on Saturday November 16th 2024,  brought together club members, supporters, and special guests for an evening of reflection, recognition, and celebration.

President Fabian Reeves, who has served at the helm of the club for the past ten years, opened the night by expressing his pride in how the Black Knight Bikers have evolved from a group of enthusiasts into a family bonded by mutual respect and a commitment to responsible riding. Reflecting on the journey, Reeves remarked, “This club has always been about more than just the rides. It’s about the friendships we’ve built, the lives we’ve touched, and the impact we’ve made together.”

A key highlight of the evening was Reeves’ announcement of a leadership transition. After a decade of dedicated service, he revealed his decision to step back temporarily to focus on his well-being, taking an annual sabbatical. Vice President Kevin “X” Wickham will step into the role of Acting President, with Adrian ‘Ace’ Rock assuming the position of Vice President. The announcement was met with resounding support as members applauded the new leadership team, confident in their ability to guide the club forward.

The Club’s Public Relations Officer, Ms. Deanzer Roberts in delivering the keynote address reflected on the club’s journey from its inception to its current status as a recognized leader in advocacy and community service.

“Our club has grown beyond being just a group of bikers. We are community leaders and advocates for important causes like anti-bullying and breaking stereotypes about bikers. Together, we have created a legacy of service and unity,” said Ms. Roberts during her address.

She also recounted the club’s dedication to causes such as anti-bullying campaigns and breaking stereotypes about bikers.

“We’ve proven that bikers are more than their leather jackets and helmets. We are citizens committed to creating a positive legacy through charity work, advocacy, and mentorship,” said Ms. Roberts

The night also featured an inspiring awards ceremony to recognize members who went above and beyond in contributing to the success of the club. Honorees included:

Dwayne CumberbatchMan of Valor for his resilience and mentorship.

Kelian AdonisMost Influential Biker for offering guidance and mentorship.

Davie Best, Dexter Austin, Donovan HippolyteMost Reliable Team Members for their unwavering dedication.

Joni BatsonMost Charitable Member for her selfless support of the club’s charitable efforts.

  • Deanzer RobertsBest Journalism Award for promoting the club’s values in the media.
  • Tamisha WorrellOutstanding Administrator for ensuring the smooth operation of the club.
  • Nicola HenryMost Proficient Member for her creativity and determination.
  • Maurita FordeMost Dependable Club Member for her steadfast commitment.
  • Kevin WickhamPrestigious Leadership Award for his exceptional dedication to the club.

As the evening came to a close, Reeves raised a toast to the club’s bright future. “Here’s to the road ahead, to new adventures, and to the memories we’ll continue to create together,” he said.

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Sports

NO PLAY AND NO CHAMPION

Article by David Harris

The CG United Super50 Cup final between Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Tarouba, Trinidad, was abandon on Saturday without a ball bowled; after the captains Raymon Reifer (Barbados Pride) and Jon Campbell (Jamaica Scorpions) failed to attend the toss of the coin. 

As a result of the unprecedented action by Reifer and Campbell Cricket West Indies (CWI) has decided that there will be no champions for this year’s tournament. 

The day/night match was scheduled to start at 1 pm but was delayed for over four hours because of heavy rain and the covers were removed from the pitch after 5 pm. The match officials decided to reduce the to a 20-over-a side game if play started at 6.17 pm. 

Both teams were informed that the toss would be held at 6 o’clock, but neither Reifer or Campbell appeared at the toss. Shortly after 6.30, the members of each team began shaking each other’s hands before going into their dressing rooms. 

Meanwhile CWI in press release issued on Sunday said they are planning to review the tournament regulations in light of the unprecedented double forfeit. 

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