The Kenson Casimir ‘Bay Bay Cup’ football tournament makes a triumphant return to the Gros Islet community this weekend after a three-year hiatus due to logistical challenges.
This year’s tournament promises an action-packed lineup as teams vie for the title and a share of over $10,000 in cash prizes.
Kicking off on January 25 (Sunday) at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds, the 2026 iteration of the tournament is vital for revitalizing football in the northern community and forging a stronger district team.
The opening fixture on Sunday is as follows:
– New Generation vs. Dominators FC – 6:00 p.m.
– Northern United vs. Monchy FC – 8:00 p.m.
Under the Gros Islet Football League’s management, this tournament will also serve as essential preparation for the upcoming third edition of the Saint Lucia Semi-Professional Football League [SPFL] , set to begin in June.
The Bay Bay Cup competition features top teams, including the reigning national club champions GMC United, current Bay Bay Cup holders Northern United, warm-up soccerama winners Monchy United, and the seasoned Gros Islet Veterans, which includes Trinidad & Tobago international and Saint Lucia men’s head coach Stern John. As a result of the January 20 draw, GMC has landed in Group A alongside Dominators FC, Gros Islet Youth, and New Generation FC from Babonneau. Group B comprises Northern United, Monchy United, Veterans, and Police.
Matches will take place at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds, Corinth Playing Field, and Grande Riviere Playing Field. Plans are in place to prepare the Monchy Playing Field as a fourth venue for the 2027 competition. Games will be held on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with two evening fixtures scheduled each day.
The District Representative football competition has consistently showcased the best of competitive football among elite teams from the Gros Islet constituency, representing Gros Islet town, Monchy, Corinth, Marisule, and surrounding areas.
Kenson Casimir, Member of Parliament (MP) for Gros Islet, emphasized recent upgrades to the Monchy playing field and various sports facilities in the northern region, led by the government through the Ministry of Sports. He called on athletes to maintain their hard work, discipline, and determination to “bring glory” to the Gros Islet community.
Additionally, he announced that a mobile bus service will soon be implemented to support athletes and technical units.
Casimir also assured that all administrators will receive fair compensation for their services and praised the four fully equipped venues available for sports in the northern community.
Tournament Overview:
Eight teams will compete in two groups during the preliminary rounds, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the Qualifiers.
Sponsors for the 2026 competition include Scott’s Sports Shop and the National Lotteries Authority (NLA).
R.A.