ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries has unveiled the glittering roster of nominees for Antigua and Barbuda’s 2024 Senior Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year awards.
Among the honorees is West Indies cricket sensation Alzarri Joseph, who leads a line-up of 12 extraordinary athletes vying for the coveted accolade at the March 15 awards gala.
Joseph, the 28-year-old fast-bowling maestro, is joined by track and field sprinter Cejhae Greene and sailing virtuoso Rocco Falcone as standout contenders for this year’s Senior Sportsman of the Year title.
Men’s nominees: A symphony of talent
The illustrious men’s category also includes Daren Benta (softball cricket), Noah St. Clair (rifle shooting), Dante Browne (fencing), Marlon George (golf), Tony Phillip (bodybuilding), Raheem Deterville (football), Yashid Auguiste (volleyball), Xavier Meade (basketball), and Jadon Wuilliez (swimming). The competition promises to be fierce as the nation’s finest athletes take center stage to celebrate their indelible contributions to their respective sports.
In the Senior Sportswoman of the Year category, bodybuilding sensation Kimberley Percival emerges as the frontrunner in a distinguished field of 11 nominees. Percival is expected to shine brightly among accomplished competitors such as track star Joella Lloyd, swimming phenom Bianca Mitchell, fencing standout Jewel Crump, sailing’s Junella King, and volleyball powerhouse Josanne Lewis. The line-up is rounded out by Reyana Regis (netball), Amanda Edwards (cricket), Alexandria Hunte (golf), Makada Samuel-Hector (softball cricket), and Iressica Allen (football).
A national celebration of Excellence
The awards ceremony, an annual highlight of Antigua’s sporting calendar, underscores the dedication, perseverance, and skill of athletes who elevate the country’s profile on both local and international stages. With Joseph’s electrifying performances for the West Indies, Greene’s dominance on the track, and Falcone’s mastery of the waves, the stage is set for a night of inspiration and celebration.
“These awards are more than accolades; they are a testament to the hard work, resilience, and passion that our athletes bring to their disciplines,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry. “We are proud to honor these individuals who continue to make Antigua and Barbuda proud.”
As anticipation builds for the March 15 event, the nominees embody the spirit of excellence, promising an evening that will spotlight the brilliance of Antigua’s sporting heroes.