Amended results from the T&T Hockey Board

Please click on the below link to see the amended results and standings at 29 April 2007.

First click on the link, then you may need to select OPEN in the dialog box to see the results in an excel sheet.

http://www.andrebaptiste.com/articles/documents/2007/hockeyresults29apr07.xls

WICB DIRECTOR TO RESIGN

Even as the West Indies Cricket Board ( WICB) prepare for a critical Board meeting in Antigua Today ( Sunday) , one director of the WICB is hinting that he has enough and will only serve one more year , then retire from WICB administration.

Chetram Singh, President of the Guyana Cricket Board, has been a member of the WICB since 1991 and admits “All good things come to an end and really and truly my plan is really to serve out my term which ends next year and retire from top administration, after all it is 17 -18 years, this has been part of my life.”

“That is my present plan, and I believe it is time to give other people a chance to serve , 18 years would be a very long time to devote to any administration…”said Singh

Questioned on the possibility of being nominated for the Presidency of the WICB again, after an aborted nomination three years ago, Singh responded “No I am no seeking presently any other position in the future in my present state of mind.”

But he admits that incumbent President of the WICB, Kenneth Gordon may be on his way out,” Yes, Ken Gordon offered his resignation last week Friday, but we discussed it and we rejected it at the moment. Brian Lara has already resigned , Bennett King has given notice that he wants to resign, and we thought that was enough at the time , so that is Elections (of a New President) are less than two months away, and if he does not want to seek elections okay, but nothing could change in a few months.”

“As to the future, let us wait until the meeting on Sunday is concluded, but I expect there to be fair discussions and straight talk on Sunday,” remarked the wily Singh.

Singh was also surprised about the announcement on Monday, that the team and captain would be announced on Wednesday gone,” I do not know, how this could have stated, as the appointment of a captain must be done by a Board meeting, and that was scheduled for Sunday, so it could not happen before Sunday, and therefore why say Sunday, as they knew the recommendation had to come before us on Sunday.”

“My understanding is that after the meeting on Monday (23rd April, 2007) with the Cricket Committee, Selection Committee, the President and some other members of the Board, the selectors met on Monday afternoon and nominated a captain, whom will have to be approved now by the Board on Sunday,” he revealed.

And while Singh admits that insularity exists elsewhere in the region, he believes that WICB members have the interest of West Indies cricket at heart in their decision making,” I don’t think Insularity is so heavy at the Board level, we think of West Indies cricket and not where we come from, that is why you are now a West Indies Director and not a delegate from your country…so that, this does not come up as much..It has not reared its face as often as it reared itself in the past,”

Singh also believes that there are three main contenders for the Captaincy role with the West Indies team following the shock retirement on Saturday 21^st April of Brian Charles Lara

“There are three names which have been mentioned, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Daren Ganga and Chris Gayle,” noted Singh.

“I believe that a lot of what is being said about Sarwan’s discipline record is related to things that happen in the past , when he was not a leader of the team and not a senior player , that has changed, and he has done good work with the Guyana national team demonstrating a lot of maturity , he has improved…”

“ Brian lara demonstrated that as a player , even if you are not the captain, you must be willing to play on the team under any leader and I hope that any member of the West Indies team realize this , there is no must that you have to captain, so I do not foresee any problems , whoever is the captain,”

“If there is any player on the team, who is not discipline, then they should be dropped, we cannot tolerate this,”he added.

The veteran West Indies administrator while admitting that the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) is a necessary body and that the WICB encouraged the formation of this body many years ago, still believes that WIPA has “being taking away nearly every cent from the WICB, and therefore not allowing the WICB to be able to have enough funds available for the development of cricket in the various territories.”

“But most likely in a year or two with the development of the retainer contracts and other programmes, all of these situations should be over,” said Singh.

Singh though has one major concern” The future does not look bright; we have not achieved a high enough standard among the second tier of players in the region. Just look at the regional tournaments, sometimes a player has one good year and then the next year, he fails, the consistency is not there … our coffers are empty and there lies the problem.”

 

:: AB

 

TTFF News - T&T U17s start quest for Korea in Kingston battle with Ticos

Photos show T&T U17s in training at the National Stadium, Kingston, also looking on at the Costa Ricans. Photos courtesy TTFF Media.

T&T U17s start quest for Korea in Kingston battle with “Ticos”

Issued by Shaun Fuentes, TTFF Media Officer in Kingston, April 27, 2007

Trinidad and Tobago’s National Under 17 footballers came face to face with their Costa Rican counterparts on Thursday evening at the National Stadium in Kingston and will now come body to body with them on the battlefield as both teams square off in the opening game of the CONCACAF final round of qualifying for the FIFA Under 17 World Championship from 5pm (6pm T&T time) on Saturday.

The T&T team arrived for their one hour session at the match venue moments before the end of the Costa Ricans session and took their seats in the stands for some 15 minutes before the opponents completed their practice. The Central Americans in turn also lingered around for a few minutes to catch a glimpse of skipper Jesse Fullerton and his boys.

Also looking on was Jamaican technical director Bora Mulitonivic who met briefly with T&T senior team head coach Wim Rijsbergen and Anton Corneal as the trio shared a few laughs before Corneal got down to work with his players.

The outfield at the “Office” was described by Corneal as less hard than usual as the well grassed surface had a cushion feeling to it as midfielder Leston Paul and the rest got a good sense of it during the work out.

The next few days is expected to bring the best out of the bunch of junior players as Canada, United States, Costa Rica and the hosts have made their intentions clear of securing one of the three spots at the World Championship. The Canadians checked in at the Knutsford Hotel (same as T&T) on Thursday evening led by Trinidadian head coach Steven Hart and by all indications are here on a no-nonsense mission.

As for the Costa Ricans though, though knowing that their first match is on Saturday, they seemed less aware of their opponents. The words of trainer Alan Browne left the feeling that they were less concerned about Corneal’s team.

“We feel that USA, Canada and Jamaica will all have a good chance and will be strong teams to play,” he told reporters, mostly Jamaicans after their session. “We want to win every game and it will be the same for them. We are here to do well. We want to qualify and we will play that way. Only on the final question about Saturday’s opener did he mention Trinidad. “The first game is always important for any team. We do not know too much about Trinidad but we saw a DVD of their match against Honduras. All our teams play the same style of football. It’s the same from the senior to the junior teams and you can expect that from us on Saturday,” Browne added. Costa Rica have played in five FIFA Under 17 World Championships, the most by any Central American nation. They lost to Panama but beat El Salvador, Nicaragua and Guatemala on their way to the current final round.

Corneal on the other hand remained optimistic but is well aware that the Costa Ricans are a good all round side and they try to play for long periods.

“We have seen them and the players have watched the DVD of them very closely. We know that they like to play with the ball and they pressure very high which means that we also cannot allow them to have the ball for too long. They will try to force us to make mistakes and we must counter that,” he told TTFF Media.

“We have come here with good hopes and we will be firm in our approach to every game. There will be no easy match for us but at the same time we cannot make it harder for ourselves. We must stick to our game plan and work off our strengths. I think the boys are aware of the challenges in this tournament and they will try their best to rise to it,” Corneal added.

He was also quizzed by the Costa Rican media, being asked what pressure the team was under with the expectations of Jack Warner as a Trinidadian being CONCACAF President. “I don’t think there is any pressure on the team because of Mr Warner. He has his business to handle as the head of CONCACAF and we have ours to take care off as a national team of Trinidad and Tobago,” Corneal responded. T&T is playing in the CONCACAF Under 17 final round for the first time since 1999 but is appearing for the eleventh time, the most by any Caribbean team. They appeared at the FIFA Under 17 Championship once in the 2001 Finals hosted in T&T.

One of the additions to the current T&T team is striker Isaiah Ferguson who hails from New York and is attached to the Under 16 team of MLS club New York Red Bulls. Ferguson said he is focusing on giving his best effort for T&T.

“I came here to try and give my best for the team. My dad is Trinidadian and he spoke with the coaches when the team was at the Dallas Cup and I got the opportunity to play for T&T. I have followed the World Cup team and I always heard about players like Russell Latapy, Stern John and Dwight Yorke and now I’m just looking forward to wearing the Trinidad shirt and hopefully making a good contribution to the team,” Ferguson told TTFF Media.

He and striker Stephen Knox will carry T&T’s scoring hopes on Saturday. Jamaica will play Canada in the second match from 7pm.

TTFF News - Call ups for Gold Cup and Olympic squads

T&T head coach Wim Rijsbergen and Jamaica's technical director Bora Milutonovic chat at the National Stadium in Kingston on Thursday evening. Photo courtesy TTFF Media.

Calls ups for Gold Cup and Olympic squads
Issued on April 27, 2007 by Shaun Fuentes, Media Officer

Trinidad and Tobago head coach Wim Rijsbergen has come with an “unfinished” list of players to begin training towards selection for the CONCACAF Gold Cup which kicks off in the United States on June 6.
Currently in Jamaica with the National Under 17 team, Rijsbergen and his assistants came up with the list which includes five overseas-based players . The home-based players on that list began training on Thursday under assistant Jan Van Deinsen.

The five overseas based players, including four of them who have made themselves available for selection by omitting their names from the list of World Cup players involved in an impasse with the TTFF, are Sunderland midfielder Carlos Edwards, Swansea City defender Dennis Lawrence Walsall goalkeeper Clayton Ince, St Johnstone striker Jason Scotland with Sparta Rotterdam midfielder Darryl Roberts completing the handful. They will report to camp from May 21.

The rest of players include returning W Connection midfielder Silvio Spann, captain Densill Theobald, Andre Toussaint, Gary Glasgow, young Jabloteh player Khaleem Hyland and striker Kendall Jagdeosingh. There is no room to this point for injured midfielder Leslie Fitzpatrick.

Rijsbergen explained that this list was made up of players based on those he felt was worthy of selection along with those he had at his disposal at this time. Several fans may be disappointed on not seeing some other names, but the Dutchman maintained that it was his best available players at this time and he was prepared to work with those names. T&T opens its Gold Cup campaign on June 7 against El Salvador in Los Angeles followed by clashes with United States and Guatemala. The tournament’s winners will walk away with US$150,000 and a spot in the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa.

Meantime, Van Deinsen also called up a list of players for the Under 23 Olympic Team which also trained on Thursday. The current Senior squad will continue with sessions up until May 17 while the Olympic squad will continue until competition time later this year. (April 27,2007.Photo above shows Wim Rijsbergen and Jamaican technical director Bora Milutinovic in a chat after meeting at the National Stadium,Kingston on Thursday.)

The Senior Squad:Jan Michael Williams, Nicholson Thomas, Andre Toussaint, Silvio Spann (W Connection); Kerwyn Jemmot (Superstar Rangers);Abiola Clarence, Romauld Aguillera, Keon Daniel (United Petrotrin);Christian Baptiste (Defence Force);Densill Theobald (Caledonia AIA); Daurance Williams, Nigel Daniel, Trent Noel, Dwayne Jack, Khaleem Hyland (Cl Financial San Juan Jabloteh); Gary Glasgow, Seon Power, Anthony Noreiga, Keyeno Thomas, Kerry Baptiste (Joe Public); Glenton Wolfe, Marvin Phillip, Kendall Jagdeosingh (Economy North East Stars); Carlos Edwards (Sunderland); Dennis Lawrence (Swansea City);Clayton Ince (Walsall); Jason Scotland (St Johnstone) and Darryl Roberts (Sparta Rotterdam).


Olympic Squad: Adrian Foncette, Cristian Thomas, Corneal Thomas (Superstar Rangers); Larry Bacchus, Simcon Augustus, Kennedy Hinkson, Devon Drayton, Shevon Fredericks, Ghmyo Harper (Petrotrin); Colin Belgrave (unattached), Reon Pegus (unattached);Criston Redhead,Shervin Charles (North East Stars); Silas Spann, Dion Peters,Thorne Holder (Joe Public); Johan Roberts, Keon Samuel, Marvin Wright, Trevin Caesar, Kevon John,Delano Davis (Tobago United); Marcus Ambrose, Carlyle Mitchell, McKenzie Cadette, Judah Hernandez, Hayden Tinto (Caledonia AIA); Akil Edwards, Sean Narcis (Defence Force); Marcelle Francois, Carlon Murray, Elton John (Jabloteh);Shane Calderon, Kerron Smith (W Connection);Kareem De Freitas and Shakan Olivieri (Harvard Sports Club).

Physio's report describes fitness, training mutiny

Physio's report describes fitness, training mutiny

Mon, Apr 16, '07

 

This verbatim report, penned by West Indies team physiotherapist Stephen Partridge after the 2006 home series, provides evidence of an astonishing breakdown in communication between the coaching staff and the team on the issue of fitness, training and diet.

At one point during the 2006 home series, the players demanded that the intense physical training program be cancelled, forcing the coaching staff into a no-win situation when trying to manage in-season injuries. The report is published verbatim (typos included) but we have deleted information detailing personal injuries and illnesses.

Physical Preparedness

 

At the commencement of the series against Zimbabwe, we had many players with minor niggles and soft tissue issues that were initially sustained in the series in New Zealand some 6 weeks previous. Further to this as in all past series where the players were assembled after a period apart, a number of weeks were spent playing ‘catch up’ on base physical fitness and soft tissue rehabilitation.

 

It is very obvious that much of the programs prescribed (rehab and strength and conditioning) are not followed or poorly completed. As a consequence when assembled squad training is undertaken and an assumption of compliance with physical programs is erroneously made, the end result is further soft tissue pathologies and player complaints of training being too hard and wholly responsible for injuries. The primary contributing factor is however the inconsistent physical loading applied when an individual attempts to go from complete rest into a full training environment.

 

Recommendations

 

Require Rehab/Strength and Conditioning Co-ordinators in each region that the athletes are required to report to and undertake prescribed work. Retainer contracts that specifically indicate player obligations to undertake this work as directed.

 

During the current series a players meeting in St Lucia (May 06) concluded that the physical loading being undertaken was too excessive and that hence forth this should be largely cancelled. The players concluded that the amount and intensity of work was responsible for injury and general player fatigue. The decree was presented in such that to have not acquiesced would have made further relations with the group untenable.

 

The point that unfortunately no player quite grasped was that most of the simpler injuries (soft tissue) were due to the lack of pre tour personal physical preparation and not the in series work. It was interesting to note during discussions with our Indian counterparts that their players were undertaking 7-10 day physical preparation camps as a separate entity to cricket specific skills work.

 

In moving in this direction we now have only the assumption that players will follow their prescribed programs when apart from the group. Every indicator to date has suggested that the majority of the group will have poor adherence. There also continues to be no regional monitoring or assistance facility in place.

 

FACILITIES

 

Guyana

Accommodation; Pegasus Meredien. Without any great knowledge of what other alternatives exist in Georgetown the Pegasus is probably the only viable option. But (there is always a but), the beds are very small and of poor quality. Pillows are again poor with multiple individuals complaining of morning neck/back stiffness.

 

Ground Facilities; Bourda - In the knowledge that this is the last time that this facility will be used but as an indicator of what is required in the new facility. There is no devoted therapy or treatment area. No treatment table. No immediate access to ice. Toilet/shower facilities very very poor. The water is often turned off. Simply put these facilities are not suitable.

Jamaica

Accomodation; Pegasus. It is probable that this will be our base for the World Cup in 2007. At present the rooms/beds etc are of reasonable standard. The in house food is average (quality and variety) and will be an issue with a prolonged stay such as with the World Cup. Breakfast in particular is fairly limited in scope.

 

Ground Facilities; Sabina Park. Again in the knowledge that these are temporary facilities but as an indicator of what not to do. There is no devoted therapy area, no treatment table, very cramped space with very poor facility for the players to relax. Dressing room as a whole is not very private. Viewing area too exposed, no devoted analyse/video capture area. Dressing room floor is very dangerous with all tiled floor, highly slippery once wet and is always wet in some form.

 

Recommendation; During World Cup preparation perhaps look at selected amount of time training playing away from Kingston. That is to break up the monotony of what will be a long stay at the Pegasus. Look at providing for the whole group, suites as possible to allow for greater living space. Establish permanent team recreation room for duration of stay with movie capacity, Playstation, pool/table tennis table etc. It is possible that a local business could assist in setting this up.

 

Refer to operational list attached for dressing room minimum requirements. Ensure new room does not have a tiled floor. Look to type of matting utilized at St Kitts as best practice guide.

St Lucia

Accommodation; Rex St Lucian. No room service available on check in after travel day. Room service for further days had to be negotiated. Many of the in room air conditioners either do not work or work loudly and or poorly. Quality of beds/pillows only fair. No internet access. Poor gym facility. Pool is adequate. In general one of if not the poorest facility we use within the Caribbean. Received multiple unofficial complaints from touring Indian management.

 

Recommendation; Must seek alternative accommodation. The Rex is not suitable

 

Ground facilities; Again as in the 05 home series, the dressing room and room attendant services were in my opinion the best in the region. I would defer to Bryce Cavanagh as to the quality of the food/drink provided, but in terms of my requirements (devoted area, treatment table, immediate access to ice) the general provision was good. My only concern as previous and consistent with most venues was the lack of an identified medical officer.

 

Recommendation; Require nominated medical officer.

 

St Kitts

Accommodation; Marriott. Excellent. Only small criticism is isolated nature of facility.

 

Ground; Dressing room very good. Player viewing area private and comfortable. Has devoted therapy area in room but with limited view of playing arena. Would suggest needs further television monitor/s in room. Baths as included in development are excellent.

Antigua

Accommodation; Jolly Beach. Poor quality. Rooms/beds/pillows are dated and well past their best. Food is not suitable for professional athletes.

 

Ground; ARG. Again in the knowledge that this is the last time at this ground but as a not how to do it indicator. The dressing room is far too small, there is no devoted treatment area or treatment table. Viewing area is congested and affords a generally poor view. Access to ice is slow. No baths available.

MEDICAL OFFICERS

Again through the regions it was often very difficult to determine who was the designated WICB Medical Officer. As per discussions with Dr Mansingh and Zorol Bartley I would ask that a schedule of preferred WICB doctors was determined and that this list be widely published.

Further on match days that this person or a nominated colleague make themselves known prior to the start of play (approx 30 min). I feel it is a base duty of care that we have a qualified and designated medical officer at every days play. I also understand that at present there is no remuneration made available. This situation needs to be reviewed.

 

During the course of the St Kitts and Jamaican games (ODI and Test) Dr Mansingh was readily available and valuable in accessing investigative tools in establishing player diagnosis and prognosis. This type of medical service access should be our norm.

 

MASSAGE THERAPY

Again due to financial constraints Massage Therapy was not utilized during this series.

Recommendation; Massage Therapy is I feel an essential part of physical recovery. I would highly recommend that a Massage Therapist be included as part of the World Cup Support Staff. That is, as a permanent member of the squad.

 

INDIVIDUAL PLAYER SUMMARY

Player   Injury & Management

 

Barbados        

Tino Best          Nil issues

 

Dwayne Smith   (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment; Right shoulder at issue end of NZ tour fully resolved. EIA still intermittent issue. Currently using ventolin prn. Dwayne is one of our best trainers but continues to have chest tightness (EIA?) with high end aerobic work. He has been instructed to use his medications and concentrate on settling his chest symptoms when they occur rather than try and push through the tightness. He has been very honest in reporting his chest problems as they occur. Nil other physical issues.

 

Pedro Collins     (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment; Has obviously been completing levels of preparation work in excess of that previously. Still through own admission had ceased working as hard in last month prior to selection. Greatest single issue in recommending Pedro particularly for Test cricket continues to be his physical preparedness. Has in some way began to address that through this current series but needs to maintain and increase off field work.

 

Fidel Edwards    (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: Fidel as in the home series of 05 sustained a right hamstring injury. All be it in a different part of the lateral hamstring. In conjunction with Bryce Cavanagh the plan is to incorporate more short high velocity loading in his program with a particular emphasis on eccentric loading ie; rapid acceleration/deceleration drills. Unfortunately Fidel did not undertake the bowling loads required before the 4th Test and I was therefore unable to recommend him as fully fit. The lower limb (MTSS) have been somewhat alleviated with the new orthotics. I have also asked Fidel to report any planned changes in footwear. His lumbar spine was not at issue during this series.

 

Ian Bradshaw     (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: Apart from general soreness after a marathon bowling effort in the 1st Test, Ian has chronic left ankle and knee issues primarily related to FFI. Neither of these should require time out from training or games but will require monitoring and regular treatment.

 

Corey Collymore            (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: Has been able to return well after knee surgery. Still requires to further improve base leg strength and muscle hypertrophy. Generally very good result. Right shoulder still ongoing issue. Awaiting scan results (MRI contrast) before considering management options. To be advised.

           

Trinidad          

Brian Lara         (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: Copes far better physically with Test cricket than ODI. Chronic lumbar and right hamstring/hip problems flared during ODI’’s but were able to be controlled during Tests. Continues with modified physical program (Bryce).

 

Dwayne Bravo    Comment: As per concerns forwarded earlier, I believe that Dwayne needs to be bowling on a more regular basis. His loads at present are too episodic and will in my opinion have a greater potential for injury. His approach to bowling training is minimalistic. I have spoken with him in regard to this and detailed what I believe to be appropriate volumes. I also have concerns that he has largely moved away from adhering to his prescribed physical program (Bryce).

His diet is also of major concern, consisting of much sugar and little else. Whether he truly believes some of his foundation beliefs (sugar is energy, I need to rest not bowl etc) or that these are just for path of least resistance. We need to be consistent in our messages concerning his approach to training and diet. I suspect any gains will be gradual and will directly linked to the level of support we gain from his fellow countryman and patron.

 

           

Dave Mohammed           L knee. Landed directly on ball after attempting catch during 1st Test. (Injury/illness information deleted). Nil long term issues.

Comment: Diet fairly poor. But has been able to access Bryce re; correct approaches and appeared keen to take on board.Nil other issues.

 

Darren Ganga    (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: Darren took several hits to each hand during the course of the series. This had some small impact on his fielding during the latter part of the 3rd and 4th Tests. It did not impact on his batting. Whilst these are minor problems, this type of joint injury is easily irritated with contact and typically slow to fully settle. Nil other issues.

 

Denesh Ramdin (Injury/illness information deleted).

Comment:Denesh as is the case with a number of our athletes does his best work after being dropped and looking to re establish himself in the team. Once returned to the fold he lets his work ethic drop. His return to the Test team on this occasion has in my opinion seen a better approach to his work and he has been told and encouraged to continue doing so.

Jamaica           

Chris Gayle       (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: In terms of his physical preparation and recovery strategies, Chris has made a few small progressions. He still can however be very inconsistent in his approach. At present he has no injury or pathology that will exclude him from undertaking his S & C program in full.

 

Marlon Samuels (Injury/illness information deleted).

Comment: Marlon continues to be excluded from certain activities (beep tests) in an effort to limit issues in his right knee. Nil other issues.

 

Jerome Taylor    (Injury/illness information deleted)

Comment: Jerome was able to work fully through the whole series without issue from the hamstring injury sustained during the NZ tour. His lumbar spine (past Hx stress #’s) was not at issue. I understand that Jerome has been withdrawn from the upcoming A series tour to the UK because of concerns re his value to the team and risk of injury.

This is contrary to the advise that I provided to the selectors. It is my opinion that he be best served in an environment where team operations (A tour) can control his bowling volume and further his conditioning through direct supervision with Bryce. Bowling volume, or more specifically regulation of a consistent volume is one of the key indicators for pathology, particularly so in a 23yr old fast bowler with a history of back injury.

I believe the A series is a perfect opportunity for Jerome to further his physical development and further reduce his risk of overuse injury. The tour also allows for a 4-6 week rest window at completion. With him now not touring he must find a way of completing his bowling load and physical program load requirements in rural Jamaica. A requirement that recent history and poor facilities access would indicate is highly problematic.

If he attempts to commence the 2 ½ month tour of the subcontinent in late September not having completed a regular bowling protocol he is at much greater risk of pathology. In this instance by giving in to this request (Captain’s) I feel we have lent credence to the player ethos that complete rest is the best curative and that any sustained work is the sole reason for injury. When every piece of evidence we possess indicates the opposite to be true.

 

Carlton Baugh    (Injury/illness information deleted). Nil specific issues

Comment: I found Carlton to be very active in seeking answers as to how he can better himself in terms of physical performance and recovery.

Nil other significant physical issues

 

Wavell Hinds     Nil issues current

 

Guyana           

Sewnarine Chattergoon   Nil issues current

 

Ramnaresh Sarwan        (Injury/illness information deleted).

Comment: Ronnie continues to have a number of chronic issues (shoulder, ankles, weight?) that require along term approach to rectify. Unfortunately to date his approach has been periodic short term enthusiasm followed by longer periods of inactivity.

If he is to improve these chronic issues his approach to programs provided needs to be regular and highly consistent.

Shiv Chanderpaul           (Injury/illness information deleted).

Comment: Shiv continues to have small soft tissue pathologies (hams/quads/ankle/forearm) that would best benefit from a more graduated approach to training. He like many in the group will move from a complete rest phase into heavy training and then blame the training for injury.

I have spoken at length to Shiv about a more graduated approach. Limiting his distance running (he likes this but his shins do not) and concentrate more on shorter sharper power based efforts. And within this apply the program timetable that Bryce has provided.

Leewards        

Renako Morton  (Injury/illness information deleted).

Comment: Had only limited playing time. Nil significant issues.

TTFF News - T&T roster named for Final U17 qualifying round

Photos show Under 17s in training, assistant coach Hutson Charles addressing players

T&T Final Roster announced for U17s final round in Jamaica

Issued by Shaun Fuentes, TTFF Media Officer, April 20, 2007

Trinidad and Tobago’s National under 17 footballers, vying for a spot in the 2007 FIFA Under 17 World Championship, will go into their final live-in training camp on home soil at the Chaconia Inn from Friday less than a week ahead of their departure for Kingston, Jamaica.

The local team of 20 players to contest the final round of the CONCACAF final qualifying round from April 28-26 was announced by head coach Anton Corneal as he related the fact that he will be taking a squad of players that have been part of the national set up for at least two years. Only two players forward Marcus Joseph, midfielder Micah Lewis and midfielder Kevin Molino have been with the squad for six months.

Additionally, US-born striker Isaiah Ferguson, who has trained with the national team before and is attached to American MLS team New York Red Bulls, will arrive in Trinidad on Saturday to join the squad for the tournament.

The rest of the squad have played for T&T at the Under 15 level and have been together since 2005. The TTFF began its screening in October 2004 and both Technical Director Lincoln Phillips and Corneal said back then that the process was to discover players for development teams for 2007.

“It’s all on the end of a process that we have stuck to with some of these same players making up the original Under 15 team that played in the CFU Youth Cup in 2005 and have graduated to the Under 17 level. Now the major test is going into the final round of qualification for the World Championship,” Corneal told TTFF Media.

The players omitted from the squad that has been in preparations include forwards Daniel Joseph who has a hamstring injury, defender Adrian Hall, forwards Franz Husbands and Jerrel Brito. The trio of Joseph, Brito and Husbands are three of the five strikers Corneal had in his training squad which means that a couple others may be rotate to fill the void if and when required.

The regulars such as TTFF Youth “Player of the Year” for 2006 Leston Paul, Chad De Freitas, captain Jesse Fullerton, striker Stephen Knox, defender Robert Primus, defender Jean Luc Rochford, midfielder Sean De Silva and central midfielder Chike Sullivan have all made the cut.

“This is the squad that we have come up with after months of preparation and close observation,” Corneal added. “We have tried to play teams that are a few years older than us because we have also played those closer to our age group and beaten them. We played W Connection’s Reserve team and won 1-0. We felt there was a need to get stronger physical challenges hence we went for the teams with more senior players. This allowed the boys to get a feel of what it would be like to play with added intensity and vigor,” he said.

The team lost 2-0 to Harvard in a training encounter with Mervyn Moore and Kareem Freitas scoring before the break on Thursday but Corneal is well aware that though his team pressured and created sufficient scoring possibilities to warrant a win, coming up against the likes of Costa Rica (April 28), USA (April 30), Canada (May 4) and Jamaica (May 6) will require less flaws and better finishing as they seek to be among the three countries from the group that will advance to the FIFA Under 17 World Championship in Korea in August.

“We know every game will be a tough one but we will start with Costa Rica first. That’s our main focus at the moment. We have seen what they look like and we got some practice against the Mexicans who faced them as well. We have a fair idea as to how the Americans and Canada play and we can expect them to be technically sound and solid at the youth level as they usually are. We have faced Jamaica before and even though we got the better of them last time it is anyone’s guess that they could be different this time around and they could be thinking the same as us. Everything will tell in the tournament,” Corneal assured. Also traveling with the team is teacher Nazir Baksh who has been working with the boys with some 12 of them preparing for the CXC O’level examinations.

T&T Under 17 team for Final Round
Goalkeepers – Jesse Fullerton (Cypress Bay High School, Florida), Glenroy Samuel (San Juan Jabloteh)

Defenders – Robert Primus (CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh), Aubrey Davis (Vessigny Government), Jean Luc Rochford (Joe Public), Brenton Balbosa (Defence Force), Stephen Chang (San Juan Jabloteh), Ryan O’Neil (Defence Force), Sheldon Bateau (San Juan Jabloteh)

Midfielders – Akeem Adams (W Connection), Daneil Cyrus (Stokelyvale FC), Chike Sullivan (San Juan Jabloteh), Micah Lewis (San Juan Jabloteh), Chad De Freitas (Superstar Rangers), Kevin Molino (San Juan Jabloteh), Sean De Silva (Superstar Rangers), Leston Paul (Defence Force).

Forwards – Marcus Joseph (Petrotrin), Stephen Knox (San Juan Jabloteh), Isaiah Ferguson (New York Red Bulls)

Staff – Anton Corneal (head coach), Hutson Charles (assistant coach), Ross Russell (Goalkeeper coach), Gilbert Bateau (Trainer), Michael Taylor (physiotherapist), Mario John (Doctor), Esmond O’Brien (equipment officer), Christopher Gouveia (manager), Oswald Davis (assistant manager).

Romany;Lara's retirement a sad moment

Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee(TTOC)President Larry Romany says the retirement of Brian Lara is a

sad moment .Romany described Lara as one of the greatest sportsmen ever produced by T&T ,a gifted "son

of the soil" who worked hard and made the most of his world class talent and potential.

 

The National Olympic chief believes that the true worth of Lara's contribution will only be appreciated

now that he is retired."The weight of expectation and at times unfair and overly personal criticism may have

tested his character .But his steely determination and indomitable will stood out.The fact remains that Brian

Lara acheived greatness.All of us make mistakes and Brian would have had his share.But he served his

country and the region in the field of sport with unquestioned distinction "

 

Romany said that the Trinidadian shouldered the burden for the failures of the West Indies team and in many

ways was made the scapegoat for administrative shortcomings and the failure of members of the West

Indies team to take personal responsibility for their individual performances.

 

On behalf of the TTOC I extend public thanks and appreciation to Brian Lara for the pride and honour he

brought to the youth of Trinidad and Tobago .We wish him well in his future endeavours.

Table Tennis Athletes Join List of Trinidad & Tobago's Elite

Image 1: Director of Sport and Physical Education, Paul Newallo makes a point to swimming biomechanics expert, Dr. Rod Havrilock behind Mrs. Sharon McLean, mother of cheque recipient Sharntelle McLean.
Image 2: Michael Valentine speaks on behalf of TT Table Tennis Association while PS Margaret Farray look on.
Image 3: Raphael St. Louis, father of Dexter speaks with Barbara Bovell and Reon Castillo, cousin of Rheann Chung.
Image 4: Deputy PS, Ashwin Creed observes at the proceedings in front of Time to Shine banner.

Four athletes in swimming and table tennis have now qualified to receive funding from the Government under the Elite Athletes Assistance Programme.

The cheque presentation took place on Thursday 19 April 2007 from 1:30pm at the 5 th Floor Conference Room, Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs, 12 Abercromby Street, Port-of-Spain .

The athletes will received $100,000.00 towards their training and other preparation for upcoming international events such as the Pan American Games. The athletes to receive funding are:

v Swimming: Nicholas Bovell, Sharntelle McLean
v Table Tennis: Dexter St. Louis, Rheann Chung

Like his older brother, Olympic bronze medallist George Bovell III, Nicholas attends Auburn University where he is a sophomore majoring in Geology. Nicholas specialises in the IM, Backstroke and Freestyle events. Sharntelle McLean is also a sophomore, but at the University of South Carolina majoring in Business. Sharntelle's strokes are the freestyle and butterfly.

37-year old Dexter St. Louis has been the backbone of this country's table tennis history for many years. He most recently qualified for the singles event at the Pan American Games in July 2007. Dexter's step-daughter, Rheann Chung has quickly risen to the top of the heap representing T&T at all major events except the Olympics.

LARA CALLS IT QUITS ON SATURDAY

Lara to quit international cricket

Dileep Premachandran in Barbados

April 19, 2007

After days of scathing criticism and ceaseless innuendo, the penny finally dropped. "I gave extensive consideration to this," said Brian Lara. "I want everybody to know that on Saturday I'll be playing my last international match. I've already spoken to the board and the players about this." It was a fairly routine press conference at the end of a insignificant game, but the answer to the last question caused even the most tired journalist to look up from his notepad.

And with that, it was over. He stopped to sign a few autographs - jaded hacks too aren't immune from the spell cast by his batting - and then walked away through the side door. Though there will be nothing at stake on Saturday when two frankly mediocre teams play for nothing more than pride, the stands could be packed as fans flock in to pay their own tributes to the prince among modern-day batsmen.

Ever since West Indies were ruled out of semi-final contention earlier in the week, speculation has been rife that Lara wouldn't be part of the Test squad to England. For a man who has carried the team piggyback for so much of his career, it would have been an unkind cut, one that he was clearly in no mood to take.

When asked to rake over the pieces of yet another ill-fated World Cup campaign, Lara refused to dwell on "spilt milk". "We've got to move on and focus on the future," he said.

His one-day career will end at 299 games, and he won't now add to the 131 Tests and 11,953 runs he scored in Test cricket. "I was very confident that I'd play my 300th game at the World Cup," he said. "It wasn't to be. So be it."

Though he will be remembered for two glorious centuries against South Africa (1996 and 2003), Lara has little else to cherish as far as the World Cup is concerned. Winning the ICC Champions Trophy in the gloom at The Oval in 2004 was a highlight, and he'll hope for a reprise against the English team that was beaten that day.

"West Indies cricket is something I hold dearly to my own heart," he said when asked what his feelings would be as he donned the maroon colours for the last time. "I've had a very good run, 299 one-day matches and 130-odd Tests under my belt. That's testimony to the fact that I've been out there toiling for West Indies cricket. I've enjoyed every single day."

He leaves behind quite a legacy as a batsman. "I've come out there and tried to entertain," he said, when asked how he'd like to be remembered. "You have to remember that people pay to come through the turnstiles.

"Another thing that I'm proud of is that I've been knocked down so many times, both as a player and a person, and come back. I need to thank my parents for that, for being able to go out there in the face of adversity and perform. It's a family trait."

Dileep Premachandran is associate editor of Cricinfo

TTFF News - U17s "MVP eager to prove worth in CONCACAF qualifiers

U17s “MVP” eager to prove worth in World Final qualifiers

Issued by Shaun Fuentes, TTFF Media Officer, April 18,2007

Trinidad and Tobago Under 17 head coach Anton Corneal spent the last few days in Jamaica inspecting the facilities there as this country gets ready to contest the final round of CONCACAF qualification for a spot in the FIFA Under 17 World Championship in Korea in August.

Corneal, who has been preparing the local squad, is expected to return today as the team prepares to go in a live-in camp in their run up to arrival in Kingston on April 25.

The team, which has played Honduras and Mexico in warm up matches over the past two months, will open its final round campaign against Costa Rica on April 28, USA (April 20), Canada (May 4) and Jamaica on May 6. The top three teams from the group will join Haiti and Honduras from Group B as the region’s five representatives at the World Championship.

“We have paced our preparations and it’s a matter now of going into the final stretch and getting set for the matches. It’s four matches and we know that all the teams will be well prepared and ready to snap up one of the three spots. We obviously will not take any of them for granted but we will also have it on our minds that we can get the right results against these teams to take us through,” Corneal told TTFF Media.

Instrumental playmaker Leston Paul knows well that he will need to be at the top of his game in the four-match series. Paul, named the TTFF’s Young “Player of the Year” 2006 is hoping that he and his teammates can rise to the challenge.

“So far I think our preparations have gone well. We had the chance to playa against a couple international teams and we have trained very hard at home. Now it’s up to us to go out there and play to win,” Paul told TTFF Media after collecting the award on Sunday at the TTFF’s closing ceremony at Crowne Plaza, Port of Spain.

He feels that the accolade could lead him to bigger things.

“It’s good to get an award like this at this time. I know it says something but I will have to go and prove it. This tournament is really the important one for us because we want to qualify badly and move on from here. I have my career ahead of me and the other boys have a lot of football to look forward to. We know that if we do well in this competition it could be a big step for us,” added the Mayaro-born midfielder.

“I have been working hard on my fitness because the time off with the injury had me out for about three months. But now I’m feeling normal again and the entire squad is just trying to be patient and wait for our chance to take on the other teams,” he added.

Meantime, one of T&T’s opponents, Canada, is coming off a training camp in Mexico where they lost 2-1 to Mexico, 2-0 to Club America and 2-1 to Cruz Azul. They will go into a camp in Sunrise, Florida before heading over to Jamaica.

“We have played well in every game, however playing well should also include capitalizing on our chances,” said Canada’s Trinidadian-born coach Stephen Hart. “The Cruz Azul game was typical of our play as of late. We should have won the game by five goals, instead we lost. On the positive side we are creating chances.”

The Jamaica group is expected to have some intense action. In Group A action earlier this month, more than 45,000 passionate and committed fans were on hand to witness the first of two CONCACAF Qualification groups for the FIFA U-17 World Cup in the Honduran capital of Tegucigalpa.

This excellent turnout is a testament to the unprecedented levels of excitement, importance and popularity of Under-17 football in the CONCACAF region. Attendances grew with each of the three match dates and an amazing 27,080 animated fans packed the Estadio Tiburcio Carias Andino for the third and final day of group play where all four teams still had everything to play for. Hopefully similar or the same can take place in Kingston and be echoed over in Port of Spain.

LARA UNDER PRESSURE

Pride on the line, no more

April 18, 2007

South Africa's demolition job on England killed off any hopes of West Indies getting back-door entry into the semi-finals, and they now go into Thursday's game against Bangladesh with only pride on the line. It will have escaped no one's attention that West Indies are currently level on points with Bangladesh and Ireland, an unacceptable state of affairs in a region that dominated the game for nearly two decades.

For Brian Lara, the tie against Bangladesh will mark his 298th in West Indian colours and the penultimate step on a journey that started on a November day in Karachi more than 16 years ago. It will forever be a source of regret for Lara that for all his individual achievements, West Indies accomplished little at the five World Cups that he was part of. Apart from the semi-final that Shane Warne stole from them at Mohali in 1996, each campaign has been as abysmal as the other.

"The two remaining games are of utmost importance to us," he said on the eve of Thursday's game. "It's important that we do start the second round. We still haven't actually. We want to finish on a high. These next two matches are of no consequence in terms of the World Cup, but they are very important for us, and the guys are fully aware of that."

The West Indian meltdown in the Super Eights, after they topped their first-round group, has been one of the most disappointing aspects of this competition, but Lara wasn't interested in playing the blame game. "This is not the time for condemnation but constructive criticism," he said. "We just did not play good cricket, we were beaten by better teams on the day. We have disappointed ourselves and our fans."

He accepted, however, that the prime reason for the debacle was the failure of the marquee players to deliver when it mattered most. "A lot of our seniors, including myself, have not performed like seniors in other prominent teams have done," he said. "The contributions from the seniors and the experienced players in the reason why teams like Australia, South Africa and Sri Lanka are in the semi-finals."

Several former players were scathing in their assessment of the team's performances against the tournament's best sides, with Colin Croft in particular pinpointing the lack of intensity at training sessions. According to Lara, such things were par for the course when things were going wrong. "There's no lethargy in the team and the boys are very upbeat," he said. "The result yesterday cast us out of the competition. The guys tried their best and have been under a lot of scrutiny lately. Unfortunately, that goes with the fact that we are not playing well.

"Bennett King and the support staff have been working really hard, but our trainer left last December, and we not had a trainer since. That is no fault of the players. The players are trying their best, but it is difficult at this time without a professional trainer."

With the pressure off, West Indies will hope to express themselves as best they can in front of the disappointed home support. As for Bangladesh, they have already embarrassed India and South Africa, but Habibul Bashar, the captain, brushed off suggestions that West Indies would be an easier mark.

"I don't think so," he said. "They're still a good team. For us, it doesn't matter who we play. It's how we play on that particular day. We beat India and South Africa, but also lost other games quite easily."

That inconsistency ruined any chance of a semi-final place, and the 74-run loss to rank outsiders Ireland was hugely disappointing for a team looking to kick on after the famous victory against South Africa. "There's been a big contrast in our performances," admitted Bashar. "Some days we're one of the best fielding sides. Other days, we're ordinary. It's very important that we learn to be consistent in all three departments of the game."

Bangladesh have only come close to beaten West Indies once in 12 attempts, at St Vincent three years ago, but such statistics didn't really worry Bashar. "Before we played South Africa [in Guyana], we had never beaten them before," he said. "Winning any game at the World Cup is very important for Bangladesh. We don't want to be No.8 in the Super Eights."

What is a worry is his form, or lack of it. "As captain, you always want to do something, to set an example for other players," he said. "It's important for me and my side that I score some runs."

In many ways he might do well to learn from his younger team-mates, who've shown oodles of confidence - perhaps too much at times - and no fear when confronted by illustrious opponents. "Bangladesh are really competitive in the Under-19s, and the boys think they can win," said Bashar, when asked about the impact of the youth brigade. "They have come to this level with that frame of mind."

It makes for a fascinating contest, a dead rubber with a fair bit at stake. "We have been disappointing," said Lara. "For Bangladesh, every game against the Test-playing nations is of utmost importance and we are aware of that. We don't want to be one of their victims. We want to come out and play our best cricket. Everyone wants to finish on a high, and we want to win back the support of the fans."

You sense that it will take more than one win to do that.

TTFF News - Edwards, Ince named in Teams of the Year

Edwards, Ince named on PFA “Teams of the Year”

 

Issued on April 16, 2007

 

Trinidad and Tobago World Cup team members Carlos Edwards and Clayton Ince have been named on the English Professional Footballer’s Association” “Team of the year” for the 2006/2007 season.

 

Edwards is enjoying an outstanding season for Sunderland as they continue their chase for promotion into the Premiership while Ince’s Walsall will be putting on their shirts in the English League One next seson.

 

Edwards, who joined Sunderland in January for £1.5m, has ten goals this season. The 28-year-old recently returned from a shoulder injury but continues to be a star for the “Black Cats” setting up one of their goals in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Queen’s Park Rangers which left them at the top of the English Championship Division with 82 points, and on the verge of promotion with three regular season matches remaining. Edwards and Dwight Yorke are also in line for Sunderland’s “Player of the Year” award.

 

Ince meantime, has been exceptional in goal for Walsall and will be looking forward to the League One action next season.  Ince gave a fine display on Saturday as Walsall defeated Notts County 2-1 to secure automatic promotion. The former Defence Force and Crewe Alexandra custodian is also in line for the Walsall “Player of  the Season” award after equaling a season record of 19 clean sheets.

 

Club manager Richard Money added: “ I think Clayton has been outstanding this season, He must be right up there in the voting. It’s a real confidence booster for a manager to see his goalkeeper constantly coming out and taking crosses and making vital saves at important times.” 

 

Mike Berry, agent for the two players said their recognition was fitting in light of their terrific seasons.

 

The PFA also announced its nomination for the “Player of the Year” award with the man of the moment Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes all making the six-man shortlist.

 

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, the 2006 winner, complete the contenders for the prestigious award, which will be presented on April 22.

 

T&T’s Shaka Hislop was given the merit award by the PFA in 2005 for outstanding service joining the likes of Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Stanley Matthews, Peter Shilton, Sir Matt Busby, the 1966 England squad,  the late George Best, Sir Bobby Robson and Niall Quinn who have won the prestigious award dating back to 1974.

TTFF News - McComie: Good support base essential for success

McComiue – Good support base is essential for success

 

Issued by Shaun Fuentes, TTFF Media Officer, April 16, 2007

 

National Olympic team assistant coach Michael McComie has paid tribute to his Joe Public coaching and playing staff for the honours he received following the 2006 Professional League season in this country.

 

McComie, a former National Youth and Senior team player, was on Sunday named by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation as the 2006 “Coach of the Year” after he guided Joe Public to the 2006 Pro League title.

 

McComie is currently working alongside national senior team head coach Wim Rijsbergen,Assistants Jan Van Deinsen and Anton Corneal,

 

“It’s an honour to get an award bestowed on me and it’s especially  nice to know that people vote for it,” McComie told TTFF Media following the awards ceremony at the Crowne Plaza. “It’s Michael McComie getting the award but none of it would have been possible without the fantastic staff I had working with me. The nice thing is that the members of the Joe Public staff were either people I played with or those who were members of the staff when I was a player. Persons like Wayne Lawson, Coulson Dick, Michael Williams, Ian Dore and Walt Noreiga were very supportive.”

 

He also commended his players for their excellent service and commitment during the 2006 season.

 

“Of course the guys that get the most criticism have a major part to play in all of this. They are the players and I said before that I had the best players in the League and the most in-form at the time. To play with some of them.. guys like Arnold Dwarika, Dale Saunders, Gary Glasgow and Lyndon Andrews and then have to be in charge of them… nobody knew how that would end up. But it turned out well. Every other day I get  a phone call from one of the players and that makes you realize that something good must be happening. The bosses at the club also ensured that we had the necessary resources available to us and that is always an important requirement. My role was really to put all the mechanisms together and make it work,” McComie added.

 

The former US-based goalie noted that no professional, whether coach, player or relevant official can perform their role in the sport  and be successful at it without the timely support of family members and close associates.

 

“I have to thank my family… my daughters especially.  At the end of a game everyone else goes away but the people involved are the ones that go back to the homes and the families. Sometimes it can be a frustrating night for you.  But having them as a good support base is always an asset,” he stated.

 

And while many might just recognize them as the men who prepare the national team for matches, McComie took time to make special mention of Dutch coaches  Rijsbergen and Van Deinsen. He has been heavily involved with them since his appointment as assistant coach to the Olympic team.

 

“I have to be very grateful for the opportunity to work alongside them. It’s a real eye opener. Most people see football as a 90-minute game but there is so much happening before and after both on and off the pitch. Working with professionals like them opens one up to a whole different perspective of the game.

 

“The qualities I gain off them is like something out of a coaching course that in some cases one would not be able to achieve. They are preparing me for a stint in England in August where I intend to further my qualifications. They are showing me the difference in coaching a club and a country. With a club you have the players all the time and with country’s it’s not like that and obviously means there needs to be different methods involved. They are also willing to spend the time with me and it’s really good to know we have quality people like them working in our football,” McComie concluded. He mentioned too that a squad has already been drawn up for preparations for the upcoming CFU leg of the Olympic qualifying tournament.