Development Sports – By Samuel Peters
Development Sports Barbuda Faces
Amid calls for sports to be revived on the sister isle of Barbuda, the Barbuda Council, which is charged with the responsibility of undertaking the operation, is facing a dilemma of where assistance from sporting associations in Antigua are concerned are not forthcoming as previously promised.
In a lengthy radio discussion, Fitzroy Warner, Chairman of the Sports Committee for the Barbuda Council, addressed concerns about the lack of sports development in Barbuda, revealing ongoing efforts complicated by poor communication and logistical obstacles.
Warner expressed frustration after being accused of inaction, detailing his extensive outreach to various sports figures including the President of the Antigua and Barbuda Cricket Association Leon “Kuma” Rodney and prominent Antiguan sports officials like Neil Cochrane and Veron Edwards. He organized a “Revival of Sports in Barbuda” meeting on November 14, which was heavily advertised but poorly attended.
Warner recently held what he described as a “very positive” meeting with the Director of Sports and the Commissioner of Sports, along with Minister Chet Greene, who holds the Barbuda Affairs portfolio and heads the National Olympic Committee.
He highlighted that he has seen no communication to the Barbuda Council, despite promises made in past meetings years ago that remain unfulfilled.
The biggest hurdle is transporting school teams from Barbuda to Antigua for leagues and interschool competitions. Warner explained that accommodation, meals, and travel arrangements lack government commitment, forcing teams to “find our way, however possible.” This puts Barbuda students at a severe disadvantage, particularly for interschool competitions where they arrive only days before events.
Warner stated that he is committed to maintaining contact with sports officials and is hoping that they will follow through on commitments made in recent meetings, expressing hope for positive results despite past disappointments.
