Goodnight and welcome to another edition of Sports Monday, I am Paul Lopez. The biggest canoe race in the annual canoe racing calendar is upon us. Of course we are talking about the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge. Paddlers, in preparation for the big dance, participate in a series of races organised by the Belize Canoe Association. The association held its first race for the year on Sunday, the Loewen’s Boom to Manatee Lookout Canoe Race. Close to twenty canoes took to the Belize River and lined up at the starting line in Burrell Boom as fans flooded the riverbank. Among the paddlers were big names like Slim and Trim Like Guava Limb, Team Lucas Oil Mixed, Black Orchid Resort, and Wave Runners, to name a few. We heard from the President of the Association, Elvin Penner, at the starting line.
Elvin Penner
Elvin Penner, President, Belize Canoe Association
“I think excitement is definitely in the air, because normally for a race like this if we make fifteen, we do very well, and I think we will pass the fifteen by a couple. So, the serious teams. These are the teams you would see giving trouble in the Ruta Maya. These are the teams that come to every race. We have most of the serious teams looking to win a category in the La Ruta Maya. Out of the eight categories in the La Ruta Maya we have at least six winners, probably all eight. This year a lot of teams are just starting to train because sponsorship is a little hard to come by and without sponsorship you can’t buy all these equipment and be out here.”
And the paddlers are off. These athletes dug deep at the start to gain an early advantage in the race. And only a short distance from the starting line, one team found themselves in troubled waters, tipped over, and at a huge disadvantage. Fifty minutes into the race, we caught up with the paddlers in Lords Bank. At this point, three canoes were leading the charge, almost bow to bow. Wave Makers, Riverside Boys, and 2024 La Ruta Maya Champs, Guava Limb. Watch as they maintained momentum, gliding over that beautiful body of sun-kissed water. Lucas Oil mixed team trailed closely behind, followed by team Brothaz and a couple of other canoes pressing towards the finish. After an hour and twenty minutes of racing, it was an all-out sprint to the finish line between Guava Limb and Wave Makers. Ultimately, Wave Makers edged out Guava Limb for the victory. Riverside Boys secured the third-place position. Lucas Oil was in first place in the mixed category.
And from canoe racing, we move into what is unfolding within Belize’s basketball premier league. Tonight, there are still more questions than answers pertaining to the start of the season and the league that will take the lead. As we have reported, the Belize Elite Basketball League seems to be prepared to play ball this season. But a second league has emerged, the Belize Premier Basketball League, leaving fans and athletes alike asking what is next for semi-pro basketball in Belize. Well, we spoke with two-time league MVP Nigel Jones over the weekend to get his take. Here is what he had to say.
Nigel Jones
Nigel Jones, Pro Basketball Athlete
“I think that it could work. I just feel like with the two leagues, whatever they are trying to figure out is possible. It has to be like two different times of the year. I have seen it happen in other countries that I have played in before. You have players play at a certain time and when that season is done the following league happens right after that. So, I think it is going to take cohesiveness. Everybody will have to want to come together and work and it cant be about egos, I did this and did that. Going into the season we have to give the fans and the people that come out and support something that they want to enjoy watching, because without them it is not possible.”
Paul Lopez
“Do you feel like players want this type of cohesion, that it is their desire?”
Nigel Jones
“I feel like at the end of the day we just want to play. For all the players that is what it is for them. We just want to play ball, but we want it to be fair too. So, I feel like if we can come together and do what needs to be done as a collective unit, we can get pass this easily. There you have it, in the words of two-time MVP Nigel Jones, “We just want to play ball.”
And finally, in Sports Monday coverage for tonight, we bring you highlights from the Belize District Football Association’s First Division Tournament. On Friday night the number six ranked team, Kelly Street, played against the team in fourth place going into the weekend, the Reggae Boys. Fourteen minutes into the match, number sixteen for the Reggae Boys, Gentle, found himself wide open with the ball on top of the penalty box. Gentle squared up and launched towards goal, securing the first goal of the match. At the thirty-ninth minute, Reggae Boys number eleven, Perteau scored this difficult kick from an impressive angle. And, sixty-four minutes into match number twelve, Ottley secured the goal of the match with a highflying bullet train that completely evaded the goalkeeper. Reggae Boys won this one, three goals to nothing. Well folks, that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. I am Paul Lopez.
Premier basketball in Belize is back—or is it? At the very least, the drama is! With no confirmed start date for the 2025 season, it looks like two leagues are vying to be the top dog in Belizean basketball. First, we have the Belize Elite Basketball League (BEBL), which organized the 2024 season and had one of the most controversial finals in its short history. Then there’s the new kid on the block, the Belize Premier Basketball League (BPBL), proposed by Doctor Gilbert Gordon, C.E.O. of Benny’s Belize Hurricanes. News Five has learned that the Hurricanes pulled out of the BEBL after only two teams showed up to planning meetings late last year. In a bid to keep premier basketball alive in Belize, Gordon reportedly decided to form this new league. The BPBL already has commitments from at least seven teams for the 2025 season. But as news of this new league spread, the BEBL’s Facebook page sprang to life. On Wednesday night, they posted, ‘Fans have no fear, BEBL 2025 is near.’ The BEBL is the only league sanctioned by the Belize Basketball Federation, which might give them an edge. But will the folks behind the BEBL step aside for the new league, or will Belizean basketball fans have to choose between the BEBL and the BPBL? All parties are meeting tonight to discuss the way forward, and we’ll keep you updated on this unfolding story.
Goodnight and welcome to another edition of Sports Monday, I am Paul Lopez. As we kick off 2025, there’s plenty of excitement in the world of sports here in Belize. Cory Williams has already made headlines by narrowly beating Oscar Quiroz in the New Year’s Cycling Classic. And just this past Sunday, Kaya Cattouse stole the show in the Imani Women’s Road Race, which spanned an impressive ninety-five miles from Cotton Tree Village to Santa Elena Town, finishing up in Belize City.
Veteran Cattouse and Junior Rider Iranie Baki rolled into Belize City with a significant lead over the main peloton. On Cemetery Road, Cattouse signaled Baki to rotate the pace heading in. Shortly after, Cattouse launched a massive attack, with Baki right on her wheel. 2:37:35 As Khaya Cattouse neared the finish line, she kept glancing back at Baki, who was hot on her heels. The seasoned rider clinched the 95-mile race in style, with Baki finishing a close second. After the race, some fans argued that Cattouse, with her vast experience, shouldn’t compete in these events, while others felt she should have let the junior rider win as a gesture of support. Later that Sunday, Cattouse took to Facebook, saying, “people hate on LeBron because he’s the goat…that’s the only reason they have…. with 18 years of high-level racing experience under my belt, I am the goat bout ya. Nobody neva gi me this, I earned it!”. She also gave a brief interview to Andrew Ordonez immediately after her victory.
Kaya Cattouse
Kaya Cattouse, Pro Cyclist “In terms of the competition, a lot of people might watch he race and say you the race out of your class and so, but I nuh get yah over night. It has been eighteen years of racing and putting in the work to be able to have the legs. I am thirty-five-years-old the race with deh young gial, at some point youth will overcome. Until then we will war to the finish. Kudos to all the ladies weh race today. We have to race. Some teams have to think strategy.”
Switching gears to another talented female athlete, Khaya Gordon from Belize’s National Volleyball Team is set to make her debut in the NCAA Division One Women’s Volleyball Tournament at Clemson University in South Carolina. Gordon, a four-time national team medalist, had an impressive 2023, helping Navarro University secure a third-place finish in the NJCAA. Just three months ago, she hit a career-high with twenty-three kills against Trinity Valley Community College. During her time at Navarro, she earned First and Second Team All-Conference honors, among many other accolades. Now, she’s already training hard at Clemson. We caught up with her to chat about her expectations for the upcoming season.
Khaya Gordon
Khaya Gordon, Student Athlete, Clemson University
“I am new here, but I am up for the challenge. I am ready to see these other high-level athletes. When you see other high-level athletes, you are like I want to do that too, I can do that, let me show you something. And, I just think moving forward our team with that mindset of working hard. We don’t have to rank extremely high, but moving up, that is like a big change for the program. That is how I am thinking. I know my coach Jackie here mentioned how dynamic I am and I would like to run different plays and do all the crazy, fun stuff, to enjoy volleyball and I am very excited for that. I think that our team moving forward with that mindset of working hard and moving up and getting Clemosn and everyone fired up.”
Clemson ranked seventeenth of eighteen teams in the 2024 season. Gordon certainly has her work cut out for her.
On Friday night, the lights were on inside the Marion Jones Sporting Complex as the Belize District Football Association continues its 2024-2025 First Division Season. Going into the weekend, TutBay was ranked as the top team this season, followed by Survivors FC in second and Lake-I F.C .in third position. On Friday, Survivors F.C. played against sixth place team Ceasar Ridge F.C. Eleven minutes into this one, Raheem Eagan for Ceasar Ridge capitalized on this pass from midfield. He fought off one defender, the goalkeeper hit the ground, and Eagan made an easy touch into the goal.Seven minutes later, Survivor’s Tyrique Ciego get a beautiful pass in front of the goal. He had time to square up and launch a bullet into the net. At the thirty-fourth minute, Troy Augustine jumped several feet off the ground to put the ball into the goal with a header, off a beautiful corner kick. The second goal for Ceasar Ridge F.C. came at the start of the second half. Devin McCauley secured that one. But, in the end, Survivors F.C. won the match with four goals, to Ceasar Ridge F.C.’s two goals.
The BDFA is hosting an exciting Regional Under-Fifteen Females Tournament. On Saturday, Alvian Strikers faced off against Royal Fusion at Berger Field. Sheren Humes put Fusion on the board with a goal in the ninth minute, but Demika Jones leveled the score for Alvian Strikers in the seventeenth minute, ending the game in a draw. In the second match of the day, Goal Getters took on KP Strikers and dominated the field, scoring twice—once in the tenth minute and again in the forty-eighth minute. Unfortunately for KP Strikers, they couldn’t find the back of the net.
Well folks, that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.
Jair Hernandez lives with a tumour on the left side of his brain, which has caused epilepsy and partial paralysis in his right hand and limited mobility in his right foot. Despite these challenges, the 15-year-old is a gold medallist.
In mid-November, Jair was given a hero’s welcome by his proud peers at Mary Hill Roman Catholic School in Corozal Town. He had just returned to Belize after participating in the CODICADER Special Olympic Games in Panama that same month.
Jair did not only participate; he won. He won three gold medals in the 100, 200, and 300 meter dashes in the T 37-38 category for athletes with cerebral palsy.
His mother, Maria Hernandez, cried when she received news that he had won his first gold medal. “I felt so happy, and I started to cry. It was a great blessing. I did not want him to go because he suffers from that tumour and because of the epilepsy, and I thought about all the bad things that can happen to him there. But I said that this must have a purpose, so I let him go, and when they told me that he won, I was so excited. I cried.”
Hernandez said that Jair had difficulty walking until he was almost five years old due to the severe fever during infancy. His tumour and epilepsy were only diagnosed when he was 12 years old, after he began experiencing episodes of confusion and disorientation. “The doctor told me that they couldn’t perform the surgery because the tumour was already big. That is what caused the epilepsy. He can’t move his arm and his foot.”
An emotional Hernandez shared that she often worried about what sort of life her son would live. “As a mom, I thought about what would happen to him. What kind of future he would have, but seeing that he won, that he won three gold medals, I think that he has a lot of opportunities.”
Guillermo Pech is the principal of Mary Hill RC School. Pech explained that Jair has been a blessing to the school since he enrolled. According to Pech, Jair’s selection came after participating in a program where students were given watches to count their steps over a period of time. Based on the data, Jair, being one of the most active students at the school, was chosen for the honour. “He has been a very active and sports-oriented student in special-ed. So, he has always been an active student when it comes to those disciplines. When we got the word that he was selected to represent Belize in Panama, it was great news.”
Following the announcement, Jair’s training intensified, with more time spent running laps during physical education classes, with the support of his family and the school. Once Jair left for Panama, Pech remained in contact with his parents and the person accompanying him.
The news came in waves: Jair won his first gold medal, then a second, and finally, a third. Pech described this as an overwhelming and joyous series of events for the school.
“He got the first gold medal, and that was already, you know, huge. And then we heard he got a second, and then a third, and then, wow, that was even more, you know, great news,” Pech said.
The student body rallied behind Jair. They received updates and pictures from the event in Panama, which they shared on the school’s Facebook page. When Jair returned, the school celebrated him like a hero, organising a motorcade and a special welcome ceremony despite ongoing flooding that had caused interruptions in classes.
Jair has always been determined. Pech said that Jair is one of the few students at the school with a disability who has been integrated into the regular football team. “So our school is the first team that has given him the opportunity to actually play normal games like any other student. But now he is there winning gold; I mean, that is something that’s just a great example of, you know, what it means to, despite having obstacles, a person can achieve whatever they want. So for us, he is a great example. He is like a hero. He’s like someone that would tell us, you know, go for it, and you can do it. There’s nothing that shouldn’t be done.”
And Jair got it done. With the help of his father, Jair trained every day since being selected. He said, “I ran; I trained every day. I ran from here (Xaibe) to Calcutta every day.” That’s about 3.8 kilometres. He said it took him about 20 minutes to do so.
“I felt happy, even happier when I won three medals,” said Jair. He wants to further his education and become an engineer. He also had some advice for other children with disabilities: “To the other children like me, continue struggling; don’t give up.” For their parents to support them. We can be great.”
Jair was honoured and recognised by the Ministry of Sports with a certificate and money. The Belize Association for Persons with Diverse Abilities (BAPDA) recognised him with the Point of Light Award.
The family has faced significant financial strain, with medical expenses including doctor visits, medication, and specialised scans. They are seeking support for Jair’s ongoing medical and educational needs.
A group of Belizean basketball players are chasing their dreams of making it to the big leagues. Thirteen talented athletes have been selected to compete in the 2025 Amateur Athletic Union Basketball Tournament, the Dru Joyce Classic, in Cleveland, Ohio. This NCAA-certified event is a golden opportunity for them to showcase their skills in front of college scouts, with the potential to earn scholarships to play college basketball in the USA or Canada. However, to make this dream a reality, they need help covering the costs of the trip, registration, and accommodation. We spoke with one of the aspiring athletes and his coach earlier today to get more details on this exciting opportunity.
Britney Gordon
“How exactly did you come across this opportunity? What led you to get to this point now?
Tevaughn Dawson
Tevaughn Dawson, Aspiring Professional Basketball Player
“ Firstly, I used to always play with coach. And he used to always coach me. He was a part of the national team as well. So, from, I guess from there he saw my skills or whatever I can do. And he contacted my mom, and my mom talked to me a little, so. They went back and forth and it’s good from there.”
Britney Gordon
“ Why do I donate?”
Tevaughn Dawson
“Well, I believe because I put in the work like I always every time a trip come up or whatever. I will always work. I will always help the team I’ll go and try to win. I’ll try my best to win.”
Rosco Reese
Rosco Reese, Coach
“ So it’s just giving boys from Belize an opportunity to basketball exposure at a high level and opportunity to be scouted by college scouts and hopefully earn an athletic scholarship.”
Britney Gordon
“So how many boys from Belize will be attending this tournament if they’re able to raise a funds?”
Rosco Reese
“Well, right now, we have thirteen boys going on the trip. About, maybe about nine of them have already secured their funds. So we’re really looking for maybe about assistance for four boys. So if anybody out there in the business community, the basketball family, um, would like to support the initiative, they could contact me. Rosco Reese. I have a Facebook page. You can contact me on my number is 6-0-5-5-7- 0-3. You could email me at Rosco.reese at gmail.com and I’ll be willing to give you all the information on the trip.”
As we wrap up 2024, News 5 is excited to bring you our digital Year in Review! This year, we're diving into the highlights and challenges of the past twelve months, all organised by themes. Join us as we look back at the stories that shaped our year…
As 2024 comes to a close, Belize’s sports landscape has been defined by moments of triumph, challenges, and stories of unwavering resilience. From historic victories to internal conflicts, the year was a testament to the grit and determination of athletes, administrators, and fans alike. Amid financial constraints and organisational disputes, Belizean sports faced its share of trials. Yet, these hurdles also revealed the enduring spirit of the sporting community.
Basketball: Highs and Lows On/Off the Court
Belize vs. Argentina: The national under-18 team faced a tough challenge in the AmeriCup 2024, trailing Argentina at halftime with a score of 57-42. Josiah Moseley was a standout player, contributing 19 points, with 17 of those in the first quarter. Despite a strong effort, Belize struggled to keep up with the host team, highlighting areas for improvement in defence and strategy.
USA vs. Belize: In a more daunting encounter, Belize’s Under-18 team suffered a heavy defeat against the USA, losing 150-54. This came after a victorious first day against Brazil, where Belize showcased their potential. The loss to the USA, however, underscored the gap between Belize and top-tier teams, emphasising the need for more rigorous training and development programs.
Douglas Langford’s Harvard Commitment: A beacon of hope emerged as Douglas Langford Jr. committed to playing college basketball at Harvard University. Securing a four-year scholarship valued at approximately $700,000 BZD, Langford’s journey from Dangriga to the Ivy League is a testament to his hard work and talent. His success story serves as an inspiration for young athletes across Belize, demonstrating that dedication and perseverance can lead to extraordinary opportunities.
B.E.B.L. Player Controversy: The Belize Elite Basketball League (B.E.B.L.) found itself embroiled in controversy when the Orange Walk Running Rebels withdrew from the 2024 season. The team cited several reasons for their withdrawal, including dissatisfaction with league management and the handling of player contracts. A key point of contention was the signing of American player Jeremiah Toney, who was initially on the Belmopan Trojans’ roster. The Running Rebels claimed that B.E.B.L. Commissioner Glenn Gill had assured them that Toney was not under contract, only to later suspend Toney for signing with two teams. This incident highlighted the need for clearer communication and stricter adherence to league rules.
BEBL Seeks 50% Cut in Civic Fees:The Belize Elite Basketball League (BEBL) pushed for a 50% reduction in the $5,000-per-game rental fee for the Belize City Civic Centre, citing financial strain on teams. With three teams using the facility, total expenses for the season amount to $90,000. In response, Minister of Sports Rodwell Ferguson announced a $4,000 monthly subsidy for the BEBL, split between the Sports Council and the Department of Youth Services. While Ferguson defended the rental fee as necessary for facility maintenance, BEBL officials insist a reduction is essential for the league’s sustainability.
Athletics: Strides and Struggles
Belize Athletics Association (BAA): Governance and accountability issues within the BAA have been a recurring theme. Allegations of mismanagement and lack of transparency have plagued the association, leading to calls for greater accountability and better governance practices. An unendorsed letter criticised the BAA President, Cojac Smith, for not providing necessary funds for the national track and field team. Smith explained that the lack of funding was due to delays in expected funds and emphasised efforts to build corporate relationships for future support. The internal disputes and financial challenges faced by the BAA reflect the need for structural reforms to ensure that the association can effectively support its athletes and fulfil its mandate. Despite these challenges, the BAA continued to focus on positive changes, such as improving the track at the Marion Jones Stadium and securing scholarships for young athletes.
Scholarships to Jamaica: Two Belizean students, Norman Sutherland and Jadeen Williams, received athletic scholarships to study and train at Saint Elizabeth Technical High School in Jamaica. This opportunity allows them to further their education and athletic careers under the guidance of experienced coaches.
Shaun in Paris: Shaun Gill, Belize’s sole athlete at the 2024 Paris Olympics, returned home after a memorable but challenging experience. Although he did not qualify for track and field events, Gill shared that adjusting to the time zone and conditions impacted his performance. Despite this, he felt immense pride representing Belize, particularly during the opening ceremony when he waved the Belize flag. After completing his engineering studies, Gill announced his retirement from athletics, focusing now on pursuing a career in his field. However, he expressed his commitment to participating in a future relay team before fully stepping away from sports.
Softball: Overcoming Adversity
National Women’s Softball Tournament:Due to the unfit condition of the Rogers Stadium field, the tournament was relocated to Sand Hill Village. Despite this setback, the competition saw strong performances from teams across the country. The field’s poor state, exacerbated by heavy rains, posed safety risks for players, prompting the move. The incident highlighted the pressing need for greater investment in sports infrastructure to provide safe and suitable venues for competitions. While efforts are underway to upgrade Rogers Stadium—including plans to resurface the field and install new lighting—it also drew attention to the broader issue of inadequate sports facilities across Belize. These limitations continue to hinder athlete development and reduce the country’s capacity to host major sporting events. The defending champions, Beacon Softball Club from Belize City, faced tough competition from teams like Doublehead Cabbage and Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy. The tournament highlighted the resilience and determination of Belizean athletes, who continued to excel despite challenging circumstances.
Boxing: Rising Stars and Tough Battles
Amir Rudon’s Challenge: Twenty-three-year-old boxer Amir Rudon faced his toughest opponent yet, Juan “El Toro” Mendez, in a super lightweight debut match. Mendez, known for his knockout power, presented a significant challenge for Rudon. Despite the odds, Rudon remained confident and focused, viewing this match as a stepping stone towards bigger titles. His preparation and determination were evident as he trained rigorously at the Alpha Boxing Club, showcasing his speed, patience, and precision.
Belize Steps Up Boxing Development: The Belize City Civic Centre hosted a landmark boxing event as Belizean boxer Eduardo “Mecanico” Esquivel faced off against Mexican fighter Albino “Cobra” Meza in a championship bout sanctioned by the World Boxing Council (WBC). The event featured multiple fights with boxers from five countries, marking a significant step forward for boxing in Belize. Adding to the prestige, Hall of Fame referee Joe Cortez was in attendance, lending his expertise to the Belize Boxing Development Council’s efforts to strengthen the sport locally. According to council founder Assad Martinez, the event represented a “threshold moment” for Belizean boxing. Martinez noted that past efforts failed to create a system for Belizean fighters to join the global talent pool, but this event signalled a shift toward establishing the “proper paradigm” for local athletes to succeed internationally. By drawing on the legacy of past boxing icons like Simon Lucas and Fitzroy “Boxer” Lightburn, the council aims to position Belize as a rising force in the sport.
Football: Mixed Fortunes on the Field
Belize vs. Guyana:The National Senior Men’s Football Team fell to Guyana 3-1 in a 2026 World Cup Qualifier match. Despite a strong start, Belize was unable to maintain their momentum against a formidable opponent. Guyana scored three goals in quick succession during the second half, leaving Belize with little time to recover. Carlos Bernardez scored Belize’s only goal, but it was not enough to turn the tide.
Belize vs. Turks and Caicos: In preparation for the Gold Cup, Belize’s National Senior Men’s Football Team faced Turks and Caicos. Head Coach Charlie Slusher emphasised the importance of maintaining a high ranking and playing pressure football. The team’s recent victory against Anguilla boosted their confidence as they aimed to continue their winning streak.
Volleyball: Historic Gold Medal Victory
Belize Women’s Volleyball: In a historic achievement, Belize’s Under-21 Women’s Volleyball Team won gold in the Central American Volleyball Championship. This victory marked the first gold medal for Belize in volleyball, a milestone celebrated with great pride across the nation. The team, led by captain Gareth Bruce and MVP Nisan Martinez, dominated their opponents with strategic plays, height, and strength. Their success was a result of rigorous training and strong team cohesion, setting a new standard for volleyball in Belize.
Tennis: Regional Competitions and Local Talent
Belize Open Men’s Singles Tennis Tournament: The tournament attracted athletes from across Central America, with Mexico’s Braulio Bautista emerging as the champion. Belizean players, including top-ranked Stephan Sosa, demonstrated their skills and competitiveness. Sosa’s performance, particularly his victory over a Guatemalan opponent, showcased the growing talent in Belizean tennis and the potential for future success in regional competitions.
Karate: Young Talent Shines
Oliwia Ruta’s Success:Nine-year-old karate student Oliwia Ruta won three trophies at an international karate tournament in New Mexico. Competing in the intermediate girls’ division, Ruta excelled in KATA, fighting, and weapon categories. Her achievements highlight the potential of young athletes in Belize to excel on the global stage and the importance of supporting youth development in various sports.
Powerlifting: Strength and Determination
Belizean Powerlifters:Belizean athletes won several medals at the North American Regional Powerlifting Competitions. Amorette Banman, Leo Matura, and Shakira Oxley Tsai were among the standout performers, collectively earning eleven medals. Their success underscores the growing presence of powerlifting in Belize’s sports landscape and the dedication of athletes to achieve excellence in their disciplines.
Cricket: Becoming More Popular
Belize Cricket 2024: In 2024, Belize’s cricket team made notable strides in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Americas Sub Regional Qualifier. The team showcased their growing competitiveness and skill on the international stage. One of the highlights was their impressive victory against Panama on December 14, where Belize won by seven wickets with 37 balls remaining. This win was a testament to the team’s improved performance and strategic play. Earlier in the tournament, Belize also secured a significant win against Mexico, triumphing by five wickets with just two balls to spare. These victories reflect the team’s progress and potential to compete at higher levels. Despite facing tough opponents, Belize’s cricket team demonstrated resilience and determination, marking 2024 as a year of growth and promising performances in the sport.
Sports App
There Is An App For That: The Ministry of Sports launched a new app aimed at allowing Belizeans, both at home and abroad, to contribute towards the preparation of athletes representing the country. The app provides a platform for donations, with contributions starting as low as one dollar. It allows for transparency and easy donations via debit and credit cards or direct bank transfers. The app would support Belize’s athletes and ensure that funds are used properly, with a board overseeing the allocation of donations. Minister of Sports Rodwell Ferguson addressed earlier issues with a previous version of the app, acknowledging technical glitches. He hopes the relaunch, supported by tax incentives for businesses, will boost contributions and help improve the state of sports in Belize.
Goodnight and welcome to another edition of Sports Monday, I am Paul Lopez. The Central Division High School Basketball Finals were hosted over the weekend inside the Swift Hall. The finals saw both male and female teams battling it out to see who will represent the region in the finals. We begin with highlights from the game between Saint John’s College and Gwen Lizarraga male teams.
Paul Lopez, Reporting
Gwen Liz won the tipoff and Thurton immediately goes for the basket. He falls short but draws the foul. Thurton made one of two free throws. On the other end, S.J.C’s captain, Thompson is right there to secure the rebound and make the inside jump shot. Thurton again for Gwen Liz, finds the opening and gets the layup with two defenders on him. And here goes Thurton again on the breakaway. He makes good on the layup and forces a timeout a minute and a half into the game. Right out of the timeout, S.J.C’s Arthurs on top of the three point line, banks it in. But, Thurton continued to score, this one an impressive one-handed maneuver around the defender. Gentle there with a huge corner three for Gwen Liz late in the first quarter. Arthurs from S.J.C responded shortly after with a huge three-pointer to close the first quarter.
Gwen Lizarraga High School led at the end of the first with thirteen points to S.J.C’s ten points. By the end of the first half, Gwen Lizarraga’s points ballooned to twenty-five, while S.J.C had fifteen points. Thurton scored fifteen of Gwen Liz twenty-five points in the first half. The third quarter was a low-scoring period, with both teams only able to put up six points each. But that kept Gwen Liz in the lead, ahead of a fourth and final quarter for all the marbles. Missed three-point shot from Gentle but Morgan is inside for the cleanup. He shows his strength. On the other end, Arthurs spots the opening around the defenders and finds himself alone inside, however, he missed the open layup. Captain Thompson ends up with the ball, he goes in and takes a hard foul.
Ultimately, Gwen Lizarraga High School Male Team won the match with forty-five points to S.J.C’s thirty-three points. Gwen Liz is headed to the national tournament to represent the central region. The Central Region Female Finals saw Gwen Lizarraga High School take on Wesley High School. This one turned out to be a low scoring game. in the first quarter, Gwen Liz scored one point, while Wesley scored six. In the second quarter, both teams scored six points. At the end of the first half, Gwen Liz had seven points and Wesley had twelve points. At the end of the third quarter, Gwen Liz added four points to their score, while Wesley added seven points. In the end, the match finished with Wesley High School securing the ticket to the national tournament with twenty-six points. Gwen Lizarraga fell with twelve points.
And from basketball locally, we take you to Buenos Aires, Argentina where the Belize National Cricket Team is currently competing in the World Cup T20 Qualifiers. They have played three of the eight matches scheduled for the tournament. They defeated Mexico but fell to host country Argentina and Cayman Islands. We spoke with Doctor Roy Young, the Manager of the National Cricket team who is currently with the delegation in Argentina.
On the Phone: Dr. Roy Young, Manager, National Cricket Team
“We played three games. We played a game immediately after we arrived. We played against Mexico, we beat them. The following day we played against Argentina. That was a close, very close game, everybody was so excited about that game. That would have been really great for us, defeating the host country. But we lost in the last over of the game by five runs. And we lost yesterday to Cayman. That was not a close game. Today is our rest day. Tomorrow, we start off again with a new set of games. So, all the teams are resting today. Tomorrow, we take on the Bahamas. We are hopeful of winning that game and if we win that we will be in a very good standing to place in the competition.”
Doctor Young sent his heartfelt gratitude to Belizeans at home and abroad who are throwing their support behind the team.
And finally, for tonight, we bring you highlights from this weekend’s Belize District First Division Football matchup between Caesar Ridge F.C. and Lake I F.C. Here is how this one played out. Twenty-one minutes into the match, Lake Independence F.C.’s Tom Moguel fired from inside the penalty box and into the goal. Moguel with the first goal of the match. At the twenty-eight minutes, the referee called a foul against Caesar Ridge inside the penalty box. Caesar Ridge players were certainly not happy with that call, but ultimately Tom Moguel took the penalty shot and scored his second goal of the match. In the thirty-ninth minute, Raheem Eagan finds himself with an open shot towards goal inside the penalty box. He launches and that counts. Ultimately, Lake Independence won the match with five goals. Tom Moguel scored three of the five, securing a hat trick. Caesar Ridge F.C. fell with three goals. Well folks that is all we have for you in tonight’s coverage of Sports Monday. Catch you in the next one.
Belize’s National Cricket Team made a strong start in the Men’s T20 World Cup Regionals in Buenos Aires, Argentina, claiming victory against Mexico by 5 wickets. The win marked a significant milestone for the team as they aimed to secure a spot among the top three teams to advance to the next phase of the tournament.
The team, which departed from the Philip Goldson International Airport on December 5th, faced stiff competition in its second match, ultimately suffering a loss to Argentina. Despite the setback, team manager Roy Young had previously expressed confidence in their chances, stating, “The energy is very high. We are hopeful that we will be in the top three.”
The tournament features nine teams — Bermuda, the Bahamas, Mexico, Panama, Argentina, Brazil, Suriname, the Cayman Islands, and Belize — all vying for one of three spots in a 2025 tournament in Canada. From there, one team will move on to the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
The Belize National Cricket Team is heading to Argentina tonight to compete in the ICC Americas Men’s T20 World Cup Sub Regional Qualifiers. This tournament is a big deal, as it paves the way to the regional games and, ultimately, the T20 World Cup. We caught up with the team at the Phillip Goldson International Airport, where they were buzzing with excitement and hope, ready to make history.
Roy Young
Dr. Roy Young, President, Belize Cricket Association
“We are fortunate to be one of the nine countries participating in this tournament and this tournament. This tournament is leading to the T20 in 2026 in Sri Lanka. From this list of nine countries, three will emerge as the leaders and those three countries will participate against Canada in 2025. From that tournament of four teams one will go to the World Cup, the big dance. So we are hoping that Belize will be a part of it. However if we advance beyond this tournament, this first phase, we would make history, because Belize has participated at this level, but have not advanced.”
Jermaine Pook
Jermaine Pook, Captain, National Cricket Team
“Our team consists of fifteen members. We are all talented players from the Belize River Valley area. We are heading out with that mindset to compete and win and that high spirt to represent our country to the fullest and looking to be one of those three countries that will be advancing to the American regional finals.”
Roshane Jones
Roshane Jones, Member , National Cricket Team
“This is a big opportunity to show everybody our talent, Belize team and try bring back a victory for Belize and make the whole country proud of we.”
Paul Lopez
“What goes through your mind when you think about competing against these teams?”
Roshane Jones
“Well, I done play against them so much time. They have played in Belize in different tournaments. I have played against three national teams in Belize here. But, it is my first time going outside. To me, I got used to the opponent, so it does not bother me when it comes to cricket.”
The Belmopan Bandits Sports Club has a new owner and a new name! Now called the Belmopan Football Club, the organization was acquired by Cruz Gamez from John Saldivar. Gamez, who didn’t reveal the purchase price, is well-known for his disciplined approach. He has successfully managed several youth teams in the Cayo District and has experience working with the Football Federation of Belize. Today, we caught up with Gamez to hear about his exciting vision for the club’s future.
Cruz Gamez
Cruz Gamez, President, Belmopan F.C.
“The decision to acquire the Bandits Football Club, now the Belmopan Football Club, the negotiation has been ongoing for a while now. We had meetings with the previous owners, and we decided it is an opportune time to acquire the team and start to rebrand a new team in Belmopan for all that has been happening in the Bandits Club. Presently, we are strategically planning our next move. We are doing our best to bring back football to Belmopan, because I think that the level of football in Belmopan has dropped a lot. We noticed the fan engagement, turnout, sponsorship has fallen a lot. With this new initiative, I think we will be able to bring back football to Belmopan to the glory days that the Belmopan Bandits had at the time. I am about to partner with some strategic partner in Mexico. We have the DBC Stars that recently was a meeting with them to partner with them so that they can assist us in turning the entire structure of the club. They are connected with a team in Oaxaca, Mexico, whereby they play on the second division, below the top league in Mexico. We are about to sign a partnership with them and hopefully that will work through.”
