Sports - Channel 5 Belize

Belizeans Celebrate Superbowl Sunday

Belizeans across the country gathered to watch the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the Philadelphia Eagles in Superbowl Fifty-Nine. The Chiefs were aiming for a historic three-peat, while the Eagles were hoping for an upset. Although American football isn’t the most popular sport in Belize, Superbowl Sunday brings its own excitement. Diehard fans eagerly watched to see their team win, while casual viewers enjoyed the commercials and the halftime show. News Five’s Paul Lopez was out and about on Superbowl Sunday to capture crowd reactions at various hangout spots. Here’s his report.

Paul Lopez, Reporting

As Superbowl Fifty-Nine kicked off between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles, the Riverside Tavern was packed with excited spectators. This is the one time of year when Belizeans are fully immersed in American football, whether they’re cheering for the game, enjoying the memorable commercials, or eagerly awaiting the highly anticipated halftime show.

Superbowl Viewer, Eagles Fan

“Eagles have always been my team in the league, especially when it came to fletcher cox. He was one of my most idolized players. A few years ago, when they won the Superbowl with him in defense. So, I have always been stuck on them.”

Paul Lopez

“A touch down from Eagles, what are you thinking right now?”

Amanda Tillett, Chiefs Fan

“We are in it for the long haul, no worries. The Chief can come back. If you saw the last game, the one to qualify, you know what Chief are made of.”

The Eagles first quarter, seven-point lead certainly had Chiefs fans on the edge of their seats, and Eagles fans ecstatic.

Jessie Benson, Eagles Fan

“First off yes, the Eagles are up right now, which is great. Patrick Mahomes needs to come work for Aquity, the best call center in Belize.”

Superbowl Viewer, Chiefs Fan

“It is still early, it is still the first quarter, we still have three more to go. We have a lot of time to go, so there is still plenty of time for us to come back.”

Next, we headed over to Social Lounge, where Eagles fans were thrilled as their team extended its lead. Chiefs’ fans, however, were still clinging to hope, relying on quarterback Pat Mahomes to turn the game around. The atmosphere was electric, with emotions running high on both sides.

Candice Hamilton, Eagles Fan

“I am rooting for the underdogs this time, no Swifty. So far it is going well, for me I think they started a little slow, playing a lot, losing the ball a lot, but these finals minutes they are stepping it up. I am loving it.”

Paul Lopez

“What are you most excited about, the game or the half-time show. Are you a Kendrick Lamar fan?”

Candice Hamilton

“No, I am not, OVO, OVO.”

Malaki Everette, Chiefs Fan

“Patrick Mahomes, all the ways. He is one of the greatest right now.”

This was the moment we all sat back to enjoy the highly anticipated Kendrick Lamar halftime show. The excitement in the air was palpable as everyone eagerly awaited his performance. While Kendrick Lamar’s halftime show was exhilarating, the excitement wasn’t over yet—a Superbowl champion still had to be crowned. The anticipation was building as fans eagerly awaited the outcome. Going into the third, the Chiefs were down twenty-four points to zero and they desperately needed a Mahomes miracle. We then made our way to Di Bruwry to catch up with the crowd, including celebrity fan Jubril from Passport Heavy.

Jubril Agoro, Eagles Fan

“It isn’t looking good at all for the Chiefs. This shirt, you may need to take it off.

Paul Lopez

“It is surprising to you any at all, that here in Belize there is a fan base and people interested in the Superbowl?”

Jubril Agoro

“Yeah, this venue and the fanbase, I am definitely surprised. I was like, alright let me go see. I was like oh shit we got real fans. I didn’t know it was going to be like this. Looking at the score, if I had to put money on it, it is the birds baby, it’s the bird.”

Early in the fourth quarter, it looked like the Eagles were on their way to a sure victory. One spectator was so confident that he even offered me a T-shirt to soften the blow of the Chiefs’ impending defeat. The Eagles went on to become the Super Bowl Fifty-Nine Champions.

Eagles Fan

“Woooee. That is baby, Eagles all the way. Blessed, happy happy, deh with the family, blessed, can’t complain. We love the results, hundred percent. Especially with Hurts at the helm, couldn’t doubt him, from that first touchdown, fantastic.”

Chiefs Fan

“We the ride or die breda man, we the ride or die. No, we the dead.”

Paul Lopez

“How you feel.”

Chiefs Fan

“Bad, bad, bad, bad, bad, bad.”

Paul Lopez

“We nuh win it this time, but next year.”

Chiefs Fan

“But, I nuh like how yo hide it.”

Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez

The Conquering Lion Academy Dominating Children’s Basketball

Good evening and welcome to another edition of Sports Monday, I’m Paul Lopez. For many young basketball players, making it to the NBA is the ultimate dream, and it all starts with early training. Dianell Brackett, a resident of Crooked Tree and a dedicated basketball coach, left his full-time teaching job to help kids learn the basics of basketball through the Conquering Lions Academy. His passion and commitment are inspiring the next generation of athletes.

Dianell Brackett, Head Coach, Conquering Lions Academy

“I was a teacher at the Crooked Tree Government School, and I was always working with kids and I always had this passion to work with kids. But while I was a teacher, even though I was working with kids I still never felt like I was living out my purpose.”

Ravon Crawford, Basketball Player

“Sometimes when I angry I just want to play basketball and for something to take it off my mind.”

Paul Lopez

“And it helps?”

Ravon Crawford

“Sometimes.”

At the Conquering Lions Academy, it is not just about learning defensive and offensive skills. There are important life skills to be learned, and Coach Brackett knows this well. He often starts his workout sessions by inspiring his players with a Bible verse and a word of prayer, setting a positive tone for the day.

Dianell Brackett

“This is a bible verse we have done in camp Ravon. God has not given us a”

Ravon Crawford

“Spirt of fear, but he has given us a spirit of sound mind, love, and bravery?”

Dianell Brackett

“God has not given us a spirt of fear, but of love, power and a sound mind. That is the mindset we suppose to go on this court with, that we nuh supposed to be fearful because we serve God and we know God nuh give we a spirt of fear. It is really challenging, because each child comes from a different background and some of them are challenged with certain, we do have some kids with ADHD, so they are very hyperactive. So, I try find ways in how to keep them engaged and focus.”

The Conquering Lions Academy and Coach Brackett are starting to see the rewards of their hard work. They’ve become one of the top basketball teams in the six-to-fourth age group, remaining undefeated in several tournaments. Interestingly, the team has only one female player, Kenya Gillett. With no female team or tournament available, Kenya competes with the boys, and she’s not intimidated at all. She doesn’t see herself at a disadvantage and holds her own on the court.

Kenya Gillett, Basketball Player

“It feels good, because sometimes I beat them.”

Paul Lopez

“I understand from your coach that you are one of the most disciplined players on your team. Why is it important for you to be disciplined?”

Kenya Gillett

“Because when the coach says something you have to listen.”

Paul Lopez

“And where does that get you, what does that do for you?”

Kenya Gillett

“When you listen you get to play better and do better stuff.”

Teamwork is one of the most important lessons taught at the Conquering Lions Academy. They’ve built a culture that values the contributions of every team member, from the oldest players to the youngest, who are just six years old. Everyone’s efforts are recognized and appreciated, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

Glenroy Reynold, Basketball Athlete

“How you could play at other places and when you grow up you could be a star of basketball and sign autographs.”

Raymond Gillett, Basketball Athlete

“I like that you could have fun and enjoy your time and one day you can be a star and win a championship.”

Paul Lopez

“Do you have basketball player you could look up to?”

Glenroy Reynold

“Luka Doncic.”

Paul Lopez

“So, you like that he is a Laker now?”

Glenroy Reynold

“Not really.”

Today was an extremely hot day for basketball. Without cover over the basketball court, training must take place without any relief from the heat, except during breaks which must be taken frequently. Before the Conquering Lions Academy came along, structured basketball training in Crooked Tree Village was almost unheard of. The academy has filled that gap, but it’s not without its expenses. The dedication to providing quality training comes with significant costs, but the impact on the community has been invaluable.

“I will be honest, it is a bit challenging. I stopped my eight to three as a teacher. I stopped my job and came to do this. I haven’t gotten the support as I would want. But I must say there is a lot of people who support any way they can. With the water today, I had to take that money out of my pocket. With the basketballs, we need more basketball gears. There is a reason why a lot of countries are ahead of us. They have more equipment and everything needed in order for their parents to strive with the sports. What I do to try to receive an income, I charge monthly, seventy dollars a month for each kid. But not every kid could afford that, and I don’t turn them back.”

The Conquering Lions are scheduled to play in the Pee Wee Invitational Valentine Edition this coming weekend.

Switching gears from basketball to football, the Alvian Strikers faced off against the Goal Getters on Saturday in the Under-Fifteen Female Football Tournament at Berger Field. The standout player was Treniece Amaya of the Alvian Strikers, who scored four of her team’s five goals, with the fifth goal coming from Demika Jones. The Goal Getters managed to score one goal, thanks to Shuilan Hazel. On the regional front, Belizean athletes had a stellar weekend. Several track and field athletes traveled to Mexico for a World Athletics sanctioned event and are returning home with an impressive ten medals, seven of which are gold. It’s a fantastic start to 2025 for Belize athletics.

Meanwhile, Belize’s Male Under-Seventeen National Team is also in Mexico, competing in the CONCACAF Qualifier games. They had a strong showing on Friday, defeating Dominica with a score of seven to zero, but fell to Nicaragua on Sunday, one to zero. They’re gearing up to play against Mexico on Tuesday. Well folks, that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.

Belizean Athletes Shine with 10 Medals at Mérida Championship

Team Belize delivered a stellar performance at the Campeonato Invernal Pista y Campo 2025 in Mérida, Mexico, a World Athletics-sanctioned event, bringing home a total of 10 medals across multiple track and field events.

The good news was shared by the Belize Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association on its Facebook Page.

Leading the charge was Nyasha Harris, who dominated the U20 female sprint events, securing gold in both the 100m and 200m. In the men’s 100m open, Shaun Gill clinched gold, while Fred Usher Jr took bronze. Usher Jr also secured silver in the 200m open. Donovan Grinage Jr added to Belize’s medal haul with a bronze in the 400m hurdles open.

One of the biggest highlights came in the 4x100m relay open male, where Jalen O’Brien, Shaun Gill, Donovan Grinage Jr, and Fred Usher Jr powered their way to a gold medal victory.

Additionally, Juan Portillo put up a strong showing in the shot put and javelin, finishing 4th and 5th, respectively.

Special recognition was given to Coach Shelmadine Carr for her leadership in guiding the athletes to success.

Blood Bath Inside Marion Jones Sporting Complex

The shocking murder of thirty-nine-year-old Brandon Baptist during a football match at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex has sent shockwaves through the sports community. News Five was on the scene, covering the game for our weekly Sports Monday segment, and captured firsthand video footage as the tragic incident unfolded. This has raised several pressing questions: Was there adequate police presence at the match? How did the shooter manage to enter the stadium with a firearm? News Five’s Paul Lopez has the details.

Paul Lopez, Reporting

The Marion Jones Sporting Complex saw a massive turnout on Friday night for the Belize District Football Association’s Semi-Finals matches. The night took a tragic turn during the second and final game between Survivors Football Club and Reggae Boys Football Club. Thirty-six minutes into the match, a Survivors player was fouled inside the penalty box, setting the stage for a crucial penalty shot. The tension was palpable as the players prepared for the decisive moment. Just as the goalkeeper and kicker were getting ready, gunshots suddenly rang out, grabbing the attention of everyone on the field. There was a moment of stunned silence before a second round of shots sent the athletes scrambling for cover. In the chaos, a woman was seen sprinting across the field to grab her child who was playing near the outdoor gym. The shots had come from the direction of a group of spectators near the entrance, causing panic and confusion among the crowd. Today, Commissioner of Police Chester Williams confirmed that there was a breakdown of communication between law enforcement officers.

Chester Williams, Commissioner of Police

“Certainly there is some breakdown in terms of the police officers working at such a game. I can say to you that I was not aware of that game being played. I also checked with Mr. Romero, and he do said that he was not aware of the game.”

As the shots rang out there was a stampede in the stands, as fans ran for cover. In the aftermath, one woman was seen on the ground overtaken by grief and in disbelief. A black car, its passenger door flung open, sped out of the parking lot with shooting victims inside, racing towards the nearby Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. Blood stained the ramp leading up to the stands where the victims were shot, a grim reminder of the night’s violence.

Chester Williams

“We are seeing there is a trend where people are putting together sporting activities in good faith to bring rivalling communities together as a form of intervention through sports. But instead of applying to the commissioner of police for security they find their own police officers and get those police officers to provide security for them. And many times the level of security they are getting for these events is not adequate.”

Spectators, shaken and in shock, gathered on the football field. Tragically, well-known street figure Brandon Baptist, thirty-nine, was pronounced dead in the aftermath.

Chester Williams

“There is no way on earth we would have allowed three police officers to work a game of such magnitude where there are lone gang members. So the fact that there is this shortcut needs to be eliminated and I have said to commanders that If it is that they encounter any such event and there is inadequate security or they have not applied to commander on the ground or the commissioner of police they must bring the event to a stop until they can get adequate police to work this event.”

The incident prompted a statement by the President of the Football Federation of Belize, Sergio Chuc.

Sergio Chuc, President, F.F.B

“A place meant for unity was struck with fear and grief. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, the victims and all affected by this meaningless act of savagery. Football is meant to inspire, build character and unite, not to be a place of sorrow.”

The Belize District First Division Tournament draws teams from all over the district, but most are from Belize City, a municipality gripped by gun violence. Brandon Baptist was likely at the game on Friday to support his brothers, Akeem, Raheem, and Hubert Baptist, who all play for the Lake Independence Football Club. But where was the police presence? A police mobile arrived just five minutes after the shooting, and one person was seen being handcuffed and placed in the back of the vehicle. News Five has learned that only four police officers were assigned to the event due to a lack of sponsorship for the tournament.

Sergio Chuc

“This year the FFB is expanding initiatives in new programs such as goals before gangs, and Not Impossible Because She is Possible. These programs will reach over three thousand at risk youths. But programs are not enough, with the combined efforts of parents, mentors, coaches and community leaders, we can teach our children that violence is never the answer and that their lives are important.”

A premier league match scheduled for Sunday at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex has been postponed.

Chester Williams

“I had advised the president of the FFB to postpone the game to give us some time to deal with what took place on Friday. It is not because we don’t think we can handle it. Most of our officers were engaged with Friday night’s incident or dealing with operations in the Martin areas and other areas and other areas to avert retaliation.”

Interestingly, the stadium was bustling again on Saturday morning, less than twelve hours after the tragic incident, for high school and collegiate sports. This time, police officers were out in full force, conducting thorough searches on students at the entrance. The bloodstains from the previous night’s murder still marked the footpath, a stark reminder for the young athletes of the violence that had occurred. Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez.

Athletes Dominate During ATLIB Track and Field Championship

Good evening and welcome to another edition of Sports Monday! I’m Paul Lopez, and tonight we kick things off with highlights from Saturday’s 2025 ATLIB Track and Field Championship at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. The event saw fierce competition from athletes representing five tertiary institutions: Galen University, the University of Belize, SJCJC, Wesley Junior College, and Independence Junior College. The day started with an exciting three-kilometer race for the female athletes, setting the tone for a day full of thrilling performances.

Paul Lopez, Reporting

Roxy Lemus, sporting bright orange shorts for Galen University, took off with determination. Hot on her heels were Elisha Rash and Huzyra Cho from the University of Belize. As the race progressed, with five and a half laps down and two to go, Rash and Lemus managed to lap Cho. Heading into the final lap, Rash was in the lead, with Lemus right behind her. In a thrilling finish, Rash kicked it up a notch and crossed the finish line fifteen seconds ahead of Lemus, clocking in at thirteen minutes and twenty-seven seconds.

Elisha Rash, U.B. Athlete

“My strategy was to keep up with the first runner and save more energy with myself and then the last lap two laps use the energy you have saved up.”

Next up was the men’s five-kilometer race. Three determined runners took their positions at the starting line: Cayden Flowers and Wilmer Cal from the University of Belize, and Neptali Balam from Galen. Balam struggled early on and was lapped a few times by Flowers and Cal. As the race neared its end, Flowers dug deep and unleashed a final burst of energy, breaking away from the pack. He crossed the finish line in first place, showcasing his endurance and determination.

Cayden Flowers, U.B. Athlete

“The strategy, everyone has their own strategy. Waiting for the last few laps is the safest, because you could finally see where you opponents are. My colleague Wilmer Cal is very strong. I just came out pushed and see what my best capabilities are.”

Flowers crossed the finish line with a time of twenty minutes and ten seconds. Now, let’s move on to the thrilling female hundred-meter sprint. Despite only six runners signing up, the race was split into two heats due to the track’s condition—only five of the eight lanes were usable, with the others deteriorating over the past year. In the first heat, Jade Sanker sprinted to victory with a time of 14.66 seconds. The second heat featured crowd favorites Kendal Morgan and Nayasha Harris in an exciting faceoff. Nayasha ultimately claimed the gold medal, finishing with an impressive time of 12.50 seconds. Morgan secure

Nayasha Harris, SJCJC Athlete

“My mindset is well confident. I know I was supposed to run the race extremely good. I have been practicing during the week and weekends with my coach Mr. Evans and Ms. Carr.”

And then came the male one-hundred-meter sprint. This one was executed in a similar fashion, two heats with the winner being determined based on finish time. Donovan Grinage from U.B. took the first heat with a time of eleven point twenty-one seconds. He was followed closely by Dante Green from IJC with twelve point three seconds. But the gold medalist came from the second heat. Of the four runners, Gary Neal executed an exceptional sprint and finished well ahead of his opponents with a time of eleven point nine seconds, securing the gold medal.

Gary Neal, U.B. Athlete

“Ever since I was a toddler I had a passion for running. I used to runway to the roadside when I do something wicked.”

The male and female shotput competitions took place just across from the running track. Each male competitor had three attempts to throw the shot, and in the end, it was Steven Sylvester who clinched the gold with the farthest throw.

Steven Sylvester, SJCJC Athlete

“The win feel really great. I came out here expecting a top three and I came out with the gold. I have to thank God, because God come first. Without God I neva mih wah the yah.”

And finally, from the track and field championship, the four hundred-meter women’s race saw an all-out sprint to the finish line between Leanne Segura, Kendal Morgan and Ashanti Carr. From the last place position, Segura overtook her opponents at the last second to win gold.

Leanne Segura, SJCJC Athlete

“If I am being honest I was counting myself out. But when I hit the two-hundred-meter mark and realize that the gaps was not that big, I took it up a notch.”

Paul Lopez

“How do you feel when you accomplish something like that, where you go from dead last to winning a race.”

Leanne Segura

“I still the process it. Ih nuh real.”

And finally, to wrap up tonight’s coverage, it wasn’t all doom and gloom at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex on Friday night. The first semi-final match saw Tut Bay, donning their blue jerseys, take on Lake Independence in white. Tut Bay dominated the game, scoring four goals to Lake I’s two. With this victory, Tut Bay was set to face the winner of the match between Reggae Boyz and Survivors FC in the finals. Well folks that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.

“We Didn’t Need a Foreigner to Tell Us”, UDP on Sport Facilities

Next up was the issue of sporting facilities across the country, a topic tackled by Shane Williams, the U.D.P. candidate for Queen Square. As an athlete himself, Williams didn’t mince words, criticizing the government for the poor state of the Belize Mexico Center. His comments were a direct response to a story aired by News Five on Monday night.

Shane Williams, U.D.P. Candidate, Queen Square

“Belizean athletes truly deserve better. It took a foreign sports executive to have the minister sit down in front of the world on national tv and embarrass him for people to notice the deplorable state of sporting facilities in this country. We didn’t need a foreigner to tell us that it is unacceptable for the Belize Mexico Center to be abandoned like it has. Hurricane Lisa hit in 2022 and look at how the Mexico Center is in January 2025 and of all the sports centers in this country that would have been the least one I thought they would have been abandoned. You remember when COVID when our athletes couldn’t play basketball or any sports, Mexico Center was locked up like fort knocks with minister playing basketball during that time. Your favorite minister locked up in Mexico Centre while they play sports while the rest of the country was on lock down. So, Mexico Center would be the last facility you would expect this administration to totally abandoned. All the government has to do was fix the roof so that no further damage comes when it rains. Now, any simple rain deteriorates it further. All they had to do was maintain. We didn’t need a foreigner to tell us that.”

Belize Chided Over Deplorable State of Mexico Sports Centre

The Mexico Sports Center has been left to crumble after Hurricane Lisa caused extensive structural damage in November 2022. Nearly three years have passed, and the facility remains untouched, much to the dismay of sports stakeholders and residents who see it as an eyesore. Located just a stone’s throw from Olympic House, where the Belize Volleyball Association hosted the Central American Volleyball Federation’s AGM over the weekend, the dilapidated state of the Mexico Center was a hot topic. The issue was raised in the presence of the Minister of Sports, Rodwell Ferguson. News Five’s Paul Lopez has more on this pressing concern.

Paul Lopez, Reporting

The Mexico Sports Center took a heavy hit from Hurricane Lisa in November 2022, leaving the roof with significant structural damage. The plan was to temporarily close the multi-purpose sports facility for renovations, but more than two years later, it remains in a state of disrepair. Footage from Sports Monday, taken just a month before the hurricane, shows a pristine wooden basketball court and seating for fans. Today, the auditorium is unrecognizable. The wooden flooring has been removed due to water damage, the interior is exposed to the elements, and light fixtures are hanging precariously from the ceiling. An eerie silence now fills what was once a bustling gymnasium. This more than ten-million-dollar investment has been abandoned. One particularly unhappy visitor is Cristobal Marte, President of the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation, who is in Belize for the regional volleyball general assembly.

Cristobal Marte, President, NORCECA Volleyball Confederation

“Honorable Minister of Sports is also a part of the parliament we need you to yell, not to speak, we need you to bang you hands on the table and demand from the parliament of Belize, demand very strongly, don’t be afraid, demand very strongly for the necessary support and budget for you to do your work. I was very sad and broken hearted when I saw the Mexican Center. That is not possible. It cannot continue like that, when for almost three years it has been abandoned, it has not been even provided or received officially. It is destroyed. It is like a ghost. We need to fix that.”

President Marte raised the issue of the Mexico Center at the opening ceremony of the general assembly. Minister of Sports, Rodwell Ferguson, was present.

Cristobal Marte

“We need to do something with that, it cannot be like that. We cannot just look the other way. We have to look at it every day and we have to do something about the Mexico Center. We cannot continue to be like that. It tells bad things about Belize and you people are not bad people. We need to do something. It cannot be like that. I cannot be abandoned like that. Something like that happens in my country, I raise hell. I go to the newspaper and talk about it every day. I can even put my players to dress in black and let us go to the streets.”

His criticism comes at a time when many sports federations and associations are struggling with a shortage of venues to host events. In Belize’s tropical climate, the rain can be unpredictable, making the need for indoor sporting facilities even more pressing. Unfortunately, these venues are few and far between and often too expensive. Allan Sharp, President of the Volleyball Federation of Belize, emphasized this issue.

Allan Sharp, President, Belize Volleyball Association

“We had a fantastic meeting with the prime minister where president Marte spoke very direct in expressing what is needed in Belize. We think it he was very receptive, namely facilities, because this will be my only chance to say it publicly, facilities is the greatest challenge to volleyball and many sports in Belize.”

Cristobal Marte

“So I asked the minister to prepare a dossier of the story of the Mexican Center, to prepare in that dossier how it got built, where it stands, and the story of the hurricane that came and destroyed it, many pictures and something very professional. I promise him to bring that dossier to the table of the lady president of one of the biggest nations I have ever been to, Mexico. I have the channel to bring that dossier on the table of the lady president elected recently of Mexico. We are not going to lose anything. She is going to listen. What we are losing right now is the way it is, abandoned, totally abandoned.”

In response to Marte’s criticism and his offer to help with the rebuilding efforts, Minister Ferguson mentioned that his team at the ministry is already on it. He made it clear that the delay in renovating the Mexico Centre is due to a lack of funds.

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Sports

“I am in dialogue with Mexico and I believe that they have agreed to figure out how we can bring back the Mexico Centre to its original state. So, I take Mr. Marte advice, we are going to put the document together, we are going to see how we can get it done. He has committed that once we fix the building, he is going to put the equipment inside.”

Paul Lopez

“But how does it strike you when you pass that Mexico Centre and look at the state it is in, what does that do to you?”

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Sports

“I visit it very often and I wish I had the funds on hand to get it done but it is a bit challenging.”

Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez.

Andrew Ordonez, From Bike Shop to Live Stream Sensation

Goodnight and welcome to another edition of Sports Monday, I am Paul Lopez. Cycling races are woven into the very fabric of Belize’s cultural identity. From the thrilling Holy Saturday Cross Country Cycling Classic to the exciting New Year’s Cycling Classic, and all the races in between, we line the streets to cheer on our favorite athletes or tune in from our devices. Over the past three years, one voice has become synonymous with cycling livestreams – that of bike shop owner, Andrew Ordonez. His commentary has become a staple, adding color and excitement to every race.

Andrew Ordonez, Owner, Ordonez Bike Shop

“I mih always loved cycling since I was a teenager or maybe just after ten years old I fell in love with cycling. Eventually I got into making cycling a living, I opened a bike shop. Getting to the broadcasting part, right after Covid I visited my son in Chicago, and they had the bicycle race weh name Intelligence Cup. I don’t know anything about streaming, I dah mih like a dunce when it comes to anything media. And he said, dad, just hold the phone, we gwen live and call names or so.”

Ordonez returned to Belize shortly after, and what he tried for the first time in Chicago set him on a new path. He began livestreaming races across the country, covering thousands of miles and countless events. And he’s not using any fancy equipment either. Ordonez ingeniously crafted a tripod from a bicycle fork, connected to a bicycle hub, and mounted a platform for two phones. His resourcefulness and passion have made him a staple in the Belizean cycling scene.

Andrew Ordonez

“Being have the bike shop, everyday you have cyclist gather here. We talk about racing. I was a cyclist back in the days, so I know how the race is being rider how the body operates, because I know the cyclist by name and riding style, like people ask me how could you know such a rider. I could say that is Mr. George Tillet riding and when you reach there it is Mr. George Tillet, because you know them and communicate and some of the riders come here and talk out their team strategy so I could pick up on that right. But being on the highway, it is easy for me to talk all day about cycling.”

Ordonez has made a name for himself through his livestreams. His energetic and sometimes comical commentating keeps the audience engaged while watching races. But, following a cycling race in its entirety across highways on the back of a motorcycle is no easy task and quite frankly, a high-risk job.

Andrew Ordonez

“Like you know a family donated a motorcycle to me free of charge. They told me just go to customs and I drove out with that beautiful machine because they saw what I was doing and they really want to see me stay on the tarmac. But like you mention about the danger, we know how dangerous it is. I have seen friends lose their life. I know I could be one of those people. But, when you love something you put your life on the line. You don’t think about it. You just do it. And that is what I do. I go out there and pray, my family pray, and fans pray. They say we know the risk you take; I know the risk I take, but I put in my mind, the good lord is watching over me.”

And may he continue to do so! It was a big weekend for volleyball in Belize as the country hosted the Central American Volleyball Federation’s general assembly for the first time. This federation is part of the NORCECA Volleyball Confederation, and its President, Cristobal Marte, was in Belize for the event. Before the assembly on Saturday, Marte met with Prime Minister John Briceño, the CEO in the Ministry of Tourism, and the Minister of Sports to push for greater investments in sports. Here are some remarks from the opening ceremony on how they plan to make that happen.

Cristobal Marte, President, NORCECA Volleyball Confederation

“Sports can increase income in this country as it does in every other country in the world throughout tourism, throughout sports and tourism brining in events, creating know how, creating awareness in the world, so people know where Belize is and what we do, creating idols. We need to have champions here in Belize. We need to have people to look up to here in Belize, to inspire our youth here in Belize.”

Allan Sharp, President, Belize Volleyball Association

“As I have had discussion with President Marte, we can always do with more equipment. That said, along the same line, during the discussions with Minister Ferguson, the Prime Minister, CEO Solano, he expressed clearly that NORCECA can offer more assistance, but Belzie must do its part. The government must do its part, the national federation must do its part, and NORCECA can do more for Belize.”

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Sports

“The prime minister announced some months ago that from our lottery a portion of the proceeds will come to sports. That by itself will be some assistance to improve its facilities. It is only a few facilities because it is a small country, and I want to commit that we are going to work for those to be done.”

Well folks, that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.

BVA President Weighs in On Need for More Volleyball Facilities

We also caught up with Allan Sharp, the President of the Belize Volleyball Association, to discuss how to tackle the shortage of volleyball training facilities nationwide. President Sharp mentioned that if he had access to the funds the government does, he would start by building covers over the existing facilities in primary school compounds across the country.

Allan Sharp, President, Belize Volleyball Association

“I have shared this with some of the ministers already and some powers that be. To me if it was my money and I am investing. I would turn first to government schools and schools in general. They already have outdoor courts. It is just a matter of covering them and managing the time. So many hours for basketball and volleyball. By having that also the school will take much better care of the facilities because it is their facility, they own it for them. There are teams for different sports that will pay to rent the space. So, they can get the income to maintain that facility. So, if it was my money putting out I would recommend we highly we start with schools, because they benefit all day from it. We want more sports in schools. We want to start at a younger age. So imagine like today in Belize City, which school can have P.E., which school can train? Only the few that have covered facilities. So, the rest cant. This is a determent and how many days per year it rains in Belize. So we need to have them covered and that is the quickest way to move forward. Once you have the covered facilities the demand will go higher. There is more demand right now to use courts, whether it be basketball, volleyball, table tennis, karate, they are all demanding use of facilities.”

A Basketball Tournament Where Children Rule

In an age when a lot of children are glued to their devices and spend a lot of time inside, one organization is working to get children active through basketball. Arana Consultancies hosted its second Peewee Invitational Tournament for basketball teams under the age of thirteen. This is not an age group that we commonly see participating in basketball competitions. But the individuals behind the tournament believe that it is the ideal time to capture the attention of these children and establish the foundation necessary for a successful future. News Five’s Paul Lopez tells us more.

Paul Lopez, Reporting

According to experts, the best time to start teaching children basketball is between the ages of three to five years old. That’s when children begin to develop fundamental motor skills. Unfortunately, this approach has been widely lacking in Belize. That is until Arana Consultancies stepped in and launched the Pee-Wee Basketball Invitational Tournament.

Rumile Arana, Tournament Coordinator

“I wanted to engage younger children to help them gather and learn how to play basketball the right way, so that when we get them to that level, U-17, U-18, that we are prepared and ready to take on the world.”

And taking on the world begins with playing against their peers at the under ten and under thirteen levels. A total of eight teams competed in the tournament. One of the primary rules is that every player must get play time, regardless of the size or skill level.

Rumile Arana

“Yo guh for the ball, you get it from Kenetth and run. Once Kenneth guh lef everybody yo give ah.”

And it is not all about winning, though some of these young athletes displayed competitiveness beyond their age. One basketball academy that participated in the tournament is taking training on and off the court to the next level. They are the Conquering Lions, and they went undefeated.

Dianell Brackett, Head Coach, Conquering Lions Academy

“Conquering Lions Academy is sort of a ministry. We link basketball with religion. I use basketball to capture the younger kids. Mainly we would have a lot of bible studies, and I would invite the kids to church on Sundays and also we would go to children camps I am really amazed. Going into this I knew that these kids would have learned, but I never knew they would learn this quickly.”

Samir Marin, Athletes, Conquering Lions

“I feel very special because we dah one of the best in the country, it is facts. I feel good.”

Paul Lopez

“What is it like playing with your teammates?”

Samir Marin

“I got one of the best teammates ever. I feel good playing with all of my teammates, confident in all of them.”

John Gillett, Athletes, Conquering Lions

“Sometimes I feel nervous, sometimes I feel excited, but I just want to have fun.

I like to take far shots, because whenever a lot of people are in the paint you have to find ways to shoot or get a layup. So I usually shoot from far.”

Paul Lopez

“Do you have a professional basketball player to inspire you, that you look up to?”

John Gillett

“Kobe and Michael Jordan.”

Samir Marin

“I look up to Kobe and Michael Jordan.”

Paul Lopez

“So none of you look up to Lebron?”

We will leave the so-called king of basketball out of this one. The peewee tournament is however not short of local basketball celebrities, like two-time Belize Elite Basketball League MVP Nigel Jones who heads his own academy the MVPs.

Nigel Jones, Coach, MVPs

“To see the progress we made in a year is amazing. Like I catch myself when I am coaching the kids, I catch myself more energized for their games when I am actually playing myself. Just to see the passion, the excitement and enjoyment they are getting form the same game we all love, I am glad they allow me to be the one to help them. Me and the two guys, it is a blessing for us. So, we just thankful for that.”

This is Arana Consultancies second Peewee Invitational. Both were held in Belize City. His vision is to take this on the road with the right sponsorship.

Rumile Arana

“To see the look on those kids’ faces when they are out there. There are children out there getting their first jersey, their first opportunity to run up and down that court. That could be a lifetime of joy for them. From that I could say I am doing something that is fulfilling for me.”

Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez