The Gros Islet Football League is using football as a tool to steer young people away from crime and violence with the launch of the third edition of the Caribbean Youth Challenge Series.
The tournament, held under the theme “Kick Out Crime and Violence,” runs from August 8 to 17 at the Corinth and Gros Islet Playing Fields, featuring competition in the Under-11, Under-14 and Under-17 age groups.
League President Shayne Paul said the tournament is about more than football, describing it as a safe space where young people can develop while building friendships with players from across the Caribbean.
“Crime and violence are no longer just Saint Lucian issues—they’re regional issues,” Paul said. “By bringing teams together, we’re creating opportunities for our young people to learn from each other while giving coaches the chance to exchange ideas that can strengthen youth football throughout the region.”
The tournament will feature some of Saint Lucia’s top youth teams, including Monchy FC, GMC United, DCYO of Dennery, the Marchand Football League, Pioneers, ADC Lancers, Valley Soccer, and New Generation of Babonneau, while Barbados’ National Sports Council will compete in the Under-14 division.
Paul said the competition also provides young players with valuable regional experience outside the FIFA and CONCACAF calendar, helping prepare those with ambitions of playing professionally.
Looking ahead, he revealed plans to expand the Caribbean Youth Challenge Series by taking future editions to other Caribbean countries, allowing Saint Lucian teams to gain even greater regional exposure.
The tournament is supported by the National Lotteries Authority, First National Bank, Scott Sports and Awards, Golden Sports 758, Jason Mondesir and the St. Lucia Football Association.