GMC United (Grand Riviere, Marisule, and Corinth) celebrated a remarkable victory in the Caribbean Youth Challenge Series 2024, securing both the Under-17 and Under-15 titles.
In front of an enthusiastic home crowd at the Corinth playing field on Sunday, GMC United showcased their prowess by defeating Black Panthers in a thrilling Under-17 final with a score of 3-2. Their well-balanced offensive and defensive strategies kept their opponents at bay, ensuring a hard-fought victory. The atmosphere was electric, with fans providing incredible support.
Additionally, GMC United’s Under-15 team was crowned champions of the Caribbean Youth Challenge Series 2024 U15 Division, while Nyah FC claimed the U12 championship title.
Individual prize winners and coaches from each division were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the tournament. Shayne Paul, President of the Gros Islet Football League (GIFL), emphasized the tournament’s role in addressing social issues such as crime and violence, and its focus on the holistic development of young athletes. He highlighted the tournament’s aim to “Kick out Crime and Violence,” which has been a significant issue in Saint Lucia and the wider region.
The tournament also aimed to enhance the abilities of young players through various activities, including soft skills workshops and curriculum activities. The initiative was a great success, with the GIFL president acknowledging the support of sponsors and expressing excitement for future tournaments with more teams participating.
Paul commended the participating teams, including two clubs from the Republic of Dominica, Point Michel and 7Six Select, for their commitment and participation. He added, “We do not want to only teach people football skills… but we want to build them, so they can be good sportsmen.” He explained that the programme included football competitions, soft skills workshops, and curriculum activities such as Games Night, aimed at bringing together kids, families, and community members. “I feel we really championed that cause,” he concluded.
Overall winners in the respective divisions were as follows:
Under -12
1st – Nyah FC, 2nd – Black Panthers and 3rd – GMC United.
Under-15
1st- GMC United, 2nd – City Foundation and 3rd- Lancers.
Under-17
Ist – GMC United, 2nd – Black Panthers, and 3rd – Northern United.
Individual Prize Winners were as follows:
Under -12
Best Goalkeeper – Elamati Gustave
Best Defender – Ajani Walker
Best Midfielder – Courtly Augustin
Best Attacker / Most Goals – Kendall Allain
Tournament MVP – Levon Narisse
Coach of the Tournament – Thomas Francis
Under -15
Best Goalkeeper – Mc Quain Byron
Best Defender – Cornelius Edmund
Best Midfielder – A Aurelien
Best Attacker / Most Goals – Mike Florent
Tournament MVP – Donte Green
Coach of the Tournament – Chris Morris
Under -17
Best Goalkeeper – Tyrel Vidal
Best Defender – Michael Justin
Best Midfielder – Jarden Etienne
Best Attacker/Most Goals – Josh George
Tournament MVP – Josh George
Coach of the Tournament – Miran Louis.