Richardson remains optimistic despite not advancing beyond the quarter-finals.
Jamaica’s Women’s champion Tahlia Richardson, despite not making it past the quarter-finals in any of her events at the recent XXIV Yonex Pan American Individual Championships at the GC Foster College in her home country, remains positive and grateful for the experience.
Richardson, who played in mixed doubles, women's doubles, and singles events, faced tough competition from players around the world. Speaking about her mixed doubles match with partner Samuel Ricketts, where they lost to Canada’s Joshua Hurlburt-Yu and Rachel Honderich, Richardson said, "It was a good match. We don't usually get to play people of that calibre; these people are playing in England and on the other side of the world. There were some things we could have capitalized on more."
While disappointed with not progressing further in the tournament, Richardson remains grateful for the opportunity to compete against top players and is looking forward to continuing to grow as a player. "I am not too disappointed because I see where I have grown, especially from previous games just in this tournament so I am really grateful that we were able to play and get to the quarter-final match where we showed that we were able to play these top countries and in few months’ time we will be able to compete against them better," she added.
In the opening round of mixed doubles, Richardson and Ricketts beat the third seed, Johnathan Solis and Diana Corleto Soto, in a closely contested match. Richardson said, "For Mixed Doubles we drew the third seed that was a pretty tough match that went to three sets but it showed what we were capable of doing. Our second round against Mexico was easier than the third seed that we had played, so we were pretty confident going into play the quarter-finals. Sometimes players are better and they were better than us."
In singles, Richardson made it to the second round before losing to Mexico's Vanessa Maricela Garcia Contreras. Despite the loss, she remains pleased with her game play and sees areas for improvement. "I have seen my growth but my legs need to get stronger so I need to work on that. I am not disappointed in my game play because based on what my coaches were telling me tactically I was playing well so I am pleased with that I am able to absorb the information that my coaches give me," she explained.
In women's doubles, Richardson and partner Kathryn Wynter lost to Fatima Beatriz Centeno Fuentes and Daniela Hernandez in a closely contested match. Reflecting on the game, Richardson said, "For the Women’s doubles, it was a winnable match but I didn’t step into the role that I need to play and I didn’t realize that until I reflected on the match and seeing that where my strength is and where my partner Kathryn Wynter’s strengths are."
Overall, Richardson remains optimistic about her future as a badminton player and is looking forward to continuing to work on her weaknesses to improve her game.
Leighton Levy is a journalist with 28 years’ experience covering crime, entertainment, and sports. He joined the staff at SportsMax.TV as a content editor two years ago and is enjoying the experience of developing sports content and new ideas. At SportsMax.tv he is pursuing his true passion - sports.
KFC sponsorship lights up the 2024 Star Search Basketball and Life Skills Camp
With a robust investment from Restaurants of Jamaica Limited, the 2024 Jamaican Basketball Association Star Search Basketball and Life Skills Camp soared to new heights, attracting increased participation from young basketball enthusiasts and drawing attention from international scouts. This initiative, designed to identify and nurture emerging basketball talent, brought together hundreds of Jamaica’s youth for a memorable week-long camp, culminating last Friday at the G.C Foster College in St. Catherine.
KFC's significant contribution—JMD $2 million in cash and JMD$1 million in meal sponsorship—enabled young athletes to benefit from the expertise of seasoned coaches while exploring opportunities for scholarships to study and play overseas, potentially paving their way to professional basketball careers at the highest level.
Among the standout participants, Joel Ricketts of Wolmer’s Boys and Bri’an Barrow of Immaculate Conception High were honored with the camp’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards. “It was an exciting experience,” Ricketts said. “I never expected to earn this award but I put my best foot forward and ensured I had fun at every step of the way.”
International scouts, who regularly attend the camp to identify new talent, were equally impressed. Chief Scout Mark Cooke, based in the U.S., remarked, “The level of talent here is phenomenal. These young athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination. It’s been a privilege to work with them and help them reach their potential.”
KFC’s sponsorship has delivered immediate benefits to the camp participants and has also made a significant impact on the broader community. By supporting initiatives like the Star Search Basketball Programme, KFC is paving the way for young athletes to achieve their dreams and build brighter futures.
Andrei Roper, Marketing Manager at Restaurants of Jamaica, expressed his enthusiasm for the camp’s success. "We're grateful for another fantastic year of Star Search. This program is near and dear to our hearts at KFC as we are dedicated to developing Jamaica's youth and shaping them for greatness. We continue to see the amazing talent that Jamaica has to offer in basketball. We share the Jamaica Basketball Association's vision of creating well-rounded individuals who contribute both on and off the court."
Roper also highlighted the camp’s dual focus on basketball and life skills. "It's not just a basketball camp; it’s also a life skills camp. We are proud to provide campers with knowledge and resources that will benefit them during the camp, in the sport of basketball, and beyond," he added.
The Star Search camp has produced notable talent, including former Cleveland Cavaliers player Samardo Samuels and current Charlotte Hornets player Nick Richards. This legacy underscores the camp's role in shaping the future of Jamaican basketball.
Jamaica announces teams for 2024 CAZOVA U19 Boys and Girls Volleyball Championships
The Jamaica Volleyball Association (JaVA) is thrilled to unveil the official rosters for the Jamaican U19 Boys and Girls teams set to compete in the 2024 CAZOVA U19 Boys and Girls Volleyball Championships. The prestigious event will be hosted at GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport from July 26 to August 4, 2024, promising an exciting showcase of young talent.
The Championship will bring together teams from across the CAZOVA region, competing fiercely for the coveted title. For Jamaica, this tournament presents an excellent platform for young athletes to gain invaluable international experience and exposure. The selected players, having undergone rigorous preparation, are eager to demonstrate their skills and represent their country on home soil, buoyed by the enthusiastic support of local fans.
Leading the charge for the Jamaica U19 Boys Team is Toshiro Jones from Wolmer’s High School for Boys, who will serve as the captain. Jones is joined by Joshua Auboine of Oracabessa High School, Schillachi Batchelor from St. Jago High School, and Jordyn-Rhy Davis of Jamaica College. Renaldo Doeman from Mannings School, David Douglas of Wolmer’s High School for Boys, and Malik Ferron and Ajani Gordon, both from St. Jago High School, will also be key players. The team is rounded out by Jantje Neil and Edward Sterling from Wolmer’s High School for Boys, Ithran Softley from Papine High School, and Nicholas Watson of Suncoast Community High School. Guiding the boys through the competition will be Head Coach Adrian Ramdeen, supported by Assistant Coach Adrian James and Team Manager Travis Clarke.
The Jamaica U19 Girls Team features Kalia Baker from Paint Branch High School as the captain. Baker will lead a dynamic group that includes Ria Bertram of Campion College, Patrina Chisholm from Wolmer’s High School for Girls, and Morgan Esmie of Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. Tashari Gordon from Knox College, Jada-Lee Grant from St. Jago High School, and Mary Massias from The Rock School will add strength to the lineup. Winnifred Mitchell from Stouffville District Secondary School, Quaciann Stewart from Wolmer’s High School for Girls, and Treviann Taylor from Knox College will also bring their talents to the court. Completing the team are Ava Grace Troyer from Hiland High School and Hadijah Wallace from Knox College. Leading the girls' squad is Head Coach O’Neil Ebanks, with Colin Rose as the Assistant Coach and Erica Harris serving as Team Manager.
As the Jamaican teams gear up for the 2024 CAZOVA U19 Boys and Girls Volleyball Championships, the anticipation and excitement build. The local support is expected to be a crucial factor in their performance, driving them to showcase their best on this international stage. This championship is more than just a competition; it's a chance for these young athletes to make their mark and potentially set the foundation for a bright future in volleyball.
KFC Basketball Star Search Camp tips off at GC Foster College on Monday, July 15
The Jamaica Basketball Association's annual KFC Basketball Star Search Camp is set to tip off on Monday, July 15, at the GC Foster College in St. Catherine. The event, which begins at 11 a.m., will gather the top 120 youth basketball players from across the island, aged 12 to 20, providing them with a unique opportunity to hone their skills, interact with mentors, and prepare for potential scholarship opportunities.
This highly anticipated camp is known for its comprehensive approach to player development. Participants will benefit from the expertise of both overseas and local coaches who will guide them through various drills and competitions. The camp's itinerary includes general fitness tests, skills assessments, special drill stations, a 3-point shooting contest, and both 3x3 and full-court team competitions.
Beyond the court, the camp places a strong emphasis on holistic development. Campers will engage in life skills sessions, receive nutrition tips, learn about anti-doping guidelines, and partake in cultural presentations. This multifaceted approach aims to prepare young athletes not only for the demands of basketball but also for the broader challenges they may face in life.
One of the highlights of the camp is the presence of overseas coaches and scouts, who will be on hand to offer scholarships and provide valuable insights into the criteria and requirements necessary to maintain these offers. This exposure is crucial for young players aspiring to continue their education and basketball careers in North America.
The KFC Basketball Star Search Camp has a rich history of over 20 years, during which it has been instrumental in the development of numerous young Jamaican basketball talents. Many of these players have successfully transitioned into high schools, junior colleges, and universities in North America, thanks in part to the foundation laid by this camp.
This year's camp is supported by several notable sponsors, including KFC, The Bob Marley Foundation, Gatorade, and the Sports Development Foundation. Their contributions ensure the continued success and impact of the camp, fostering the next generation of Jamaican basketball stars.
As the camp kicks off on Monday, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. With a blend of skill development, mentorship, and holistic growth opportunities, the KFC Basketball Star Search Camp promises to be a transformative experience for all participants.
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