The Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, Olivia Grange, extended her heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Alf Remekie, a dedicated basketball administrator and former national player in Jamaica.

Remekie, who was national coordinator for the Jamaica Basketball Association (JABA) up to the time of his passing, died on Friday morning at the age of 68. He became ill and was hospitalized on Wednesday. 

Grange reflected on Remekie's journey and dedication to community building through basketball.

"Alf represented Jamaica in the inaugural CARICOM tournament held in Guyana in 1981, both as a player and a physical trainer, contributing to Jamaica's victory in the tournament. His unwavering commitment to the sport and efforts in fostering talent have made a significant impact on our community," she said.

"Alf’s passion for the game and his leadership inspired many, leaving a lasting impression on players and fans alike. As we mourn his passing, we celebrate his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind. Rest in peace, Alf. You will be missed," Grange added.

Meanwhile, JABA president Paulton Gordon was also saddened by the passing of the veteran basketball administrator. He explained that Remekie has been one of the main contributors to local basketball.

“He was integral to all our technical areas in terms of how we position basketball and how the technical side of basketball has been going,” Gordon shared.

Remekie did two stints totalling 20 years as a coach and lecturer at GC Foster College before retiring from the institution in 2019.