Undefeated
Bahamas boasts perfect 4-0 record
By BRENT STUBBS
It was a big celebration day yesterday for Team Bahamas aftertheycompleted pool B of the Davis Cup American Zone IV tie with a perfect 4-0 win-loss record in Tacarigua, Trinidad&Tobago.
Now they await to see who their opponents will be in Saturday’s promotional playoffs to determine who will return to Group III next year and who will remain in Zone IV. Intheirfinalmatchofthe tieyesterday,TheBahamas whitewashed Panama 3-0 to head into Saturday’s crossover playoffs with the momentum of the team to beat.
BAHAMAS GOVT. SHOULD HONOUR ‘ELISHA OBED’
THIS year will mark the 50th anniversary since Everette “Elisha Obed” Fergusonclaimedtheworld boxing title, but Wellington Miller said the boxing fraternity is still disappointed that the Bahamas Government has not yet honoured him.
On November 12, 1975, Ferguson captured the World Boxing Council’s light middleweight title by defeating Miguel de Oliveira in Paris, France and defended it twice before losing it to Germany’s Eckhard Dragge on June18,1976inCharlottenburg,Germany.
Donte Armbrister once again, playing the number two spot, won his opening singles with a 6-1, 0-1 retired victory over Chad Valdes, while national champion Denali Nottage blanked Diego Rodriguez Tobar6-0,6-0intheirNo.1 spotmatch.
With the tie already secured, the Grand Bahamian duo of Nottage and Kofi Bowe combined for an identical set score of 6-3,6-3forthedoubleswin over Rodriguez Tobar and Guillermo Davis RodriguezPinillatoputtheicing onthecake.
row’s matches are finished. But just another great BAZARD: THE DANGERS OF ENERGY DRINKS IN YOUTH ATHLETES
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With a day to rest and recuperate from the intense matches they played all week long, team captain John Antonas said
they can now celebrate beforetheyprepareforthe promotion playoffs on Saturday. “Another solid day. Clinched our group,” said
Antonas as the team gets a well-deserved rest today. “We cannot wait for Saturday to have the chance to move up. We won’t know
Roadrunners Trent Ford and Akaree Roberts are heading off to college
By BRENT STUBBS
SPRINTER Trent Ford andmiddledistancerunner
Akaree Roberts are the two latest members of the Roadrunners Track and Field Club who are headingofftocollegetofurther theirathleticcareers.
While Ford will be leaving on Sunday for Indiana Tech, who competes in the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) and is member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), Roberts left yesterday for Hinds Community College in Mississippi, a member of theMississippiAssociation of Community Colleges Conference (MACCC) in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA). Roberts said just as she madethetransitioninhigh school, she’s looking forward to doing it in college under head coach ReginaldDillon.
“It’s a community college, so it’s not a lot of people. I don’t really like the crowd,” she said. “I just want to improve and
Miller, a former heavyweight champion who has gone on to become the president of the Bahamas Olympic Committee, said November 15 will be the 50th anniversary of Elisha Obed’s feat and it’s high time the deceased boxer gets the recognition that he deserves.
“This is a great opportunity for the Bahamas Government to honour Elisha Obed,” Miller said. “We’re asking the Prime Minister to announce a proclamation to honour Elisha Obed on November 12 and show the fight on ZNS so that people can see it. There is a vast amount of Bahamian people who have not seen it and a lot of people don’t realise that The Bahamas has had a world boxing champion. Fifty years is always
FUN-FILLED DAY TO CLOSE OUT THE 37TH JEFF RODGERS CAMP
THE curtain will come down on another successful Jeff Rodgers Summer Basketball Camp today with a fun-filled day at the Kendal IsaacsGymnasium.
Beforethe37theditionof the camp came to a close, the participants got a real treat last night as a number of international stars, including Bahamian superstar Mychal “Sweet Bells” Thompson, not only shared their basketball experience, buttheyalsoparticipatedin theFamilyNightactivities.
Camp organiser Jeff Rodgers, who now resides in the United States, thanked God for bringing him back to continue the camp during his vacation time to give back to the Bahamiancommunity.
“When you look at this camp and see some of the young men and young ladies who come out of this campandtoseewherethey are today, like Kai Jones and Deandre Ayton, it just makes it easier and better to encourage others to believe in themselves. And soallofthatisjustawayof
NP AMATEUR BASEBALL LEAGUE
WITH its playoffs completed, the New Providence Amateur Baseball League is now looking to crown its initialchampions. The NPABL is scheduled to begin its best-of-five championship series between the Blue Reapers Baseball team, led by Alfred Ferguson Jr against the
Rebels, led by Junel Bain, 8pm tonight at the Andre Rodgers Baseball Stadium.
The Blue Reapers swept aside the Joshua Outlawz 2-0 in their playoff matchup, while the Rebels ousted the Sharks in a two-game sweepaswell.
NP SOFTBALL AFTER taking a break over the holiday
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who we play until tomor-
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SPRINTER TRENT FORD, left, and middle distance runner Akaree Roberts, far right, are the two latest members of the Roadrunners Track and Field Club heading off to college to further their athletic careers.
Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr
DENALI NOTTAGE, left, after his singles win over Panama. Team Bahamas doubles team of Denali Nottage and Kofi Bowe.
By BRENT STUBBS
PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: Bahamas team of Kofi Bowe, Denali Nottage, captain John Antonas, Donte Armbrister and Michael Major Jr after their victory over Panama.
Elite Skills campers dribble toward a brighter future with Consolidated Water backing
FOR12consecutivesummers, the Denykco Bowles Elite Skills Basketball Camp has been more than just a training ground for young athletes. It has been a launchpad for discipline, confidenceandlifeskills.
Hosted by the International Basketball Academy Bahamas(IBAB),thecamp welcomes dozens of youth from across the country to participate in weeks of skill development, mentorship sessions and characterbuilding activities at the KendalIsaacsGymnasium.
SPORTS CALENDAR
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weekend to host their Dwaine ‘Mann’ Stevens Memorial Tournament, the New Providence Softball Association is scheduled to resume its regular season this week. Here’s a look at the games on tap in the Bankers’ Field at the BaillouHillsSportingComplex.
Each year, the camp also ensures that no child is left behind due to financial barriers by sponsoring up to 50 participants from mostly inner-citycommunities.
Saturday 7pm - Sunshine Auto Wildcats vs Platinum Lady Sharks 9pm - Titans vs Chances MightyMitts CYCLING “THE CHALLENGE” THE New Providence Cycling Association is scheduled to hold its “The Challenge” cycling championships on Sunday, August 10, at the Clifton Pier parking lot, Western New
Helping to make this possible again in 2025 was a generous donation from Consolidated Water (Bahamas) Ltd. (CWCO), a long-time supporter of the programme.
Said Henderson Cash, CWCO’s general manager: “At CWCO, we believe that investing in young people is investing in the
Providence Island (next to JawsBeach).
The NPCA invites all cycling enthusiasts to compete in “The Challenge” - a high-energyroadraceevent featuring three exciting categories.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a junior rider or a senior master, there’s a challenge just for you. This event also serves as ideal training for athletes
futureofournation.Weare proud to continue supporting this impactful initiative and to help ensure every child has access to positive, meaningful opportunities likethiscamp.”
Throughout the camp, participants are exposed to motivational speakers, visiting coaches from the United States, and a lineup of events such as Jersey Day, Media Day and the highly anticipated IBA Bahamas Family All-Star Event and Dinner Awards andBanquet.
of the Bahamas National Cycling Team and National Triathlon Team preparing for major competitions this August.
Theracecategoriesareas follows: Challenge A – Open Road Competition (60 Miles), which is open to all male and female cyclists. The route will be a 6-mile loop at Clifton Pier, coveringatotalof60miles. Thestarttimeis6:40am.
Denykco Bowles, the founder and director of the camp, expressed his appreciation for CWCO’s consistentsupport.“CWCO has stood with us for many years, and their support has been instrumental in helping us grow. Their generosity opens doors for youngpeoplewhojustneed a chance and that is what thiscampisallabout.”
Prizes: Final Lap Only: First 3 cyclists across the finishlinewillreceiveprizes Challenge B – Juniors & Senior Masters (30 Miles). Eligibility: Junior Cyclists (Boys&Girls) Senior Masters (Age 50+)-Route:6-mileloopat CliftonPier-Laps:5(Total: 30 miles). Start Time: 7:20am
Prizes: Final Lap Only: First 3 cyclists across the finish line will receive prizes.
Challenge C – Juniors Under15(18Miles)-Eligibility: Junior Cyclists (Boys &Girls)under15.
Route: 6-mile loop at Clifton Pier. Laps: 3 (Total: 18 miles). Start Time: 7:20
AM
Prizes: Final Lap Only: First three cyclists across the finish line will receive prizes. For more information, persons can contact coach Barron Musgrove at (242) 433-5568 or email bammus1967@gmail.com
BASKETBALL
BBSF TOURNAMENT
THE Bahamas Baptist Sports Federation is scheduled to hold a meeting 6pm Thursday, August 28 at its office upstairs in the Bahamas Baptist College, Jean Street, for all churches interested in participating in the 2025 Basketball Tournament. The tournament is scheduled for the weekend of September 26-27 at the CI Gibson Gymnasium for the 12-and under and open divisions. Each team will consist of 12 players. Trophies sponsored by AID will be distributed to the champions and runners-up in each category as well as medals forthethird-placeteams. Interested persons can contact Sean Bastian at seanbasbastian@gmail.com or call 826-8535 or Brent Stubbs at stubbobs@gmail. com or call 426-7265 for moreinformation.
TRACK
THE Baptist Sports Federation is slated to hold its 2025 Track and Field Classic during the Baptist month of activities on Saturday, October 25 at the ThomasA.RobinsonTrack andFieldStadium.
The camp continues to serve as a vital space where sport meets purpose and every child is given the opportunitytothrive.
Odd distance events will be staged for competitors in the under-7, under-11, under-15, under-17, under20, under-40, under-60 and 60-and over categories for menandwomen.Therewill also be a Pastors/Ministers category. Trophies will be presented to the divisional champions and medals to the top three finishers in each event. Interested persons can contact Ann Thompson at ann87609@ gmail.com or call 4253667 or Brent Stubbs at stubbobs@gmail,com or call 426-7265 for more information.
BASKETBALL 4 VS 4 TOURNEY THE Salt Life Promotions is scheduled to hold its Basketball Networking event on Saturday, August 9, at the Kendal Isaacs Gymnasium, starting at 3pm.Interestedpersonscan contact 826-3184 or saltlifepromotions242@gmail.com.
BASEBALL SUMMER CAMP THE inaugural Pheron Charlton TM Baseball Academy’s Baseball Summer Camp is slated to be held 9am to 1pm from August 11-13 at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex softballfields. The camp is designed for players between the ages of five and 12 years. The first 40 campers to register will receiveafreeuniform. Interested persons can call 1-242-544-8568 for more information. Players will receive instructions from former pro and collegebaseballplayers.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
FUN DAY
SPECIAL Olympics Bahamas is scheduled to hold their annual raffle grill fun day fundraiser on Saturday, August 16 from 11:30am to 6pm at the Stapledon School Grounds on DolphinDrive.Dinnerswill include chicken, steak, fish, hot dogs, burgers, pastries andsoftdrinks. Domino’s, Connect 4 and basketball games will be playedduringtheday.Interested persons are urged to call 426-0233, 477-0304 or 359-3558forinformationon ticketpurchases.
The dangers of energy drinks in youth athletes
By Dr Kent L Bazard
WALK into any convenience store near a high school and you’ll see the shelves stacked high with brightlylabelledcanspromising energy, focus and performance.
Energy drinks have become almost as popular among teen athletes as sneakers and protein shakes.
But while these drinks are marketed like sports supplements, they often do far more harm than good — especially in young, developingathletes.
It’s time we clear up the confusion and have an honestconversation.
Energy drinks are not sportsdrinks—andthey’re not safe for everyday athletic use, especially among teens.
Sports Drink vs. Energy
Drink: Not the
Same Game
Oneofthemostcommon misconceptions we see in sports clinics and on the sidelines is that energy drinks help hydration and performance. But this is
dangerously far from the truth.
Sports drinks are formulated to replace fluids and electrolytes lost during intense exercise. They contain sodium, potassium and small amounts of sugar — and are bestused during or afterlong-durationorhighheattrainingsessions.
Energy drinks, on the otherhand,areloadedwith caffeine, added stimulants, and high doses of sugar. They’re designed to give a mental and physical “jolt” — but that stimulation can place enormous stress on a youngathlete’sheart,brain, andnervoussystem. How Caffeine and Sugar Impact Youth Performance Caffeineisacentralnervoussystemstimulant. In small, controlled amounts, it can improve alertnessandreactiontime. But in large doses — especially in teens — it can increase anxiety, interfere with sleep, and elevate heart rate and bloodpressure.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends
zero caffeine consumption for children under 12, and no more than 100mg per dayforadolescents.
Yet many energy drinks contain 200-300mg per can — equivalent to 3+ cups of coffeeinonehit.
Combine that with the sugar surge found in most of these drinks, and now we’re talking about energy crashes, poor focus, and insulin spikes that can leave an athlete sluggish and dehydrated during performance.
There’salsoaseriousrisk of cardiac complications. Cases of irregular heartbeat, fainting, and even sudden cardiac events have been reported in young athletes who consumed excessive energy drinks beforecompetition—especially in hot climates like oursinTheBahamas. There Are Better Ways to Fuel Performance
If the goal is pre-game energyormentalsharpness, there are safer, evidencebasedstrategiesthatwork.
Pre-game fuelling should focuson:
A light, balanced meal 1.5 to 3 hours before the event: think grilled chicken with rice and veggies, or a turkeysandwichandfruit.
A small snack 30–60 minutes before: a banana, Greek yogurt, or a handful of trail mix can provide quick energy without the crash.
Hydration with water or electrolyte-based sports drinks, not sugary or caffeinatedproducts.
Mental focus techniques like breathwork, visualisation, and positive self-talk
— proven tools used by top-level athletes around theworld. For more long-term energy and performance, regularsleep,properrecovery and balanced meals throughout the day will always outperform any cannedshortcut.
The Bigger Issue: Culture, Marketing, and Education
Part of the problem is marketing.
Energy drinks are cleverly packaged as athletic performance aids, with images of high-performing athletesandextremesports. But these endorsements don’ttellthefullstory—or therisks.
It’s also about peer culture. Teens are more likely to copy what they see others doing, especially in locker rooms and on TikTok. That’s why education must be a community effort — involving parents, coaches,schools,andsports professionals.
We must make it clear: these products aren’t just “fun and harmless boosts.” They can pose real danger
to the health and performanceofouryouthathletes — and we all play a part in guiding them to better choices.
The Bottom Line The goal of youth sports isn’tjustperformance—it’s development.Thatincludes building a strong, healthy body and a resilient mind. Relying on energy drinks underminesboth.
As a sports medicine professional, I advise all athletes and their families: ditch the energy drinks, focus on real food, sleep, hydration, and smart preparation.
Let’s protect our young athletes’ hearts, minds, and futures — not just their game-dayperformance.
•DrKentBazard,sports medicine physician at Empire Sports Medicine, specializes in ensuring athletes reach their peak performance safely. With extensive experience and a passion for sports health, Dr. Bazard provides insights and guidance for athletes of all ages - men andwomen.
RELOADED GAMES AND TRAINING IN SANTIAGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
A NUMBER of children signed up with the Reloaded programme to take advantage of a trip to train and play games against Dominican teams fromJuly27toAugust3.
According to a press statement, the Reloaded programme took the next step and engaged CPD Academy with the aim of providing the kids with the experience training at a more intense level “along with seeing pitchers who were throwing between 80 and90.”
“In pursuant to our mandate to continuously strive to enhance development and exposure in the Reloaded programme we took the next step and engaged CPD Academy, of whom we introduced to The Bahamas a while back, to train and play games against Dominican teams fromJuly27toAugust3.
“We took a mixture of kids from Grand Bahama, namely: XavierThompsonAaronTaylorTravisAdderleyJr.ColinBainThaddeusRussellAmariKnowlesRaheemKnowlesKyalnTaylor EvanKnowles and from New Providencenamely: EthanBurnside JayceDeveaux JaycobClarke GeralleGabriel11 TerranceBrown
The workout regimen started everyday with a 5am wake-up call, bath, breakfast and then to the baseball diamond where they engaged in intense agility and footwork,
fielding, proper batting mechanics and pitching drills.
The games against the Dominican teams were organised as well “and our kids stood up to the challenge,”saidtherelease.
“During our daily training sessions, Division I and Major League scouts were at the field which allowed a few of the older kids to be seen by them and a few got theinterestofthescouts.
“This provided an extra layer of exposure and opportunity for the kids as well. Initially we wanted
to see how the kids would adjust to the time scheduling and workouts but surprisingly, we assume due to the kids desire to train and play games, they adjustedafterthefirstday.”
The Reloaded baseball and softball administrators have deemed the first DominicanRepublicahuge success for exposure and levellingupforthekids.
“We have now been engagedtoholdaReloaded tournament in the Dominican Republic that is being supported by the likes of CJ Beatty and the Pro
Youth Foundation along with numerous baseball academies in the Dominican Republic and teams throughoutTheBahamas.
“We are now aiming to hold the next Reloaded Invitational in the Dominican Republic which will be the first ever done by a baseball/softball entity originating out of The Bahamas.
“We would like to thank those who have supported us along our journey which has afforded the kids opportunities that would have otherwise not been
possible. Those include Adonis A Media, Rush Imports, the d’Albenas Agency, PWC, Family Guardian, Sterling Bank and Trust Limited, Balance Advisors and RF Bank & TrustBahamas.
“We are humbled and gracious for these entities embracing the Reloaded’s developmental journey as wepursuetomaptheminto scholarships, where their skill sets take them, and possiblyfurther.
“We have solidified relationships with powerhouses in the baseball and softball
world internationally and we will tap into every opportunity for our Bahamian kids as good is never enough as we are developingtomorrow’sleaders.”
YOUNG, aspiring baseball stars with the Reloaded programme take advantage of training and games against Dominican teams from July 27 to August 3.
ROADRUNNERS SPRINTER TRENT AND MIDDLE DISTANCE RUNNER AKAREE SET TO FURTHER THEIR ATHLETIC CAREERS IN COLLEGE
mother Erica Rollins was accompanying her to Mississippi just to make sure thatshehasalloftheamenities that she will need to get set up for her collegiate journey.
Coming from a family of seven siblings, Roberts, whose father is Dario Roberts, is the only one competing in track and the only one to head off to college, so she considers herself to be the pacesetter.
Ford, a graduate of St Augustine’s College, will be leaving on Sunday. He will bejoiningfellowSACgraduate Jelani Morrison and CR Walker’s Reanno Todd on the men’s team and team-mate Tamia Taylor from St John’s College and Grand Bahamian Kaily Pratt, who compete on the women’s team.
“I’m about 50-50 excited because I’m leaving everything in Nassau,” Ford said. “I’ve been here at home all my life, so it’s a new beginning for me to take on.”
Ford, 18, said he selected Indiana Tech, coached by Doug Edgar, because they have a good academic programme and an excellent sprint programme that will only enable him to run faster than his personal best of 10.75 in the 100m and 21.24 in the 200m.
“I just want to stay healthy, keep my faith in Godandjustruntothebest of my ability,” he said. “My high school career has had its ups and downs.
“At one point, I wasn’t running after I fell out of love with the sport about three years ago. But my parents, Ian Ford and Joyce McKenzie, and my coaches
told me to have faith in God and to stick with it.”
For those members of the Roadrunners and other track athletes still at home, Ford encouraged them to “stay focused, put in the work and don’t give up. I hope to see them go further than I have.”
Having competed as a Roadrunner all of his life, Ford said he owes it all to coach Bodie and the rest of the coaches and he hopes that one day “I can repay them back for their support.”
Roadrunners’ head coach Dexter Bodie said he’s confident that the two athletes will represent the Bahamas very well at their respective colleges. “Mentally and physically they have to be prepared for what is to come,” Bodie said. “I told them the way we train over here will be different in college.
“Sotheyhavetobeready to expect the unexpected and to be ready for the challenge.”
Bodie said he anticipates some great things for them as they shine in their new environments. “It will be a learning experience for them, but I’m sure that they will adapt to their new culture and programme that they will be entering.”
Ford will be among a list of about six to eight student-athletes who are still in school and an additional few who have finished, but are now working in the United States.
Additionally, Bodie said three of their athletes, who have completed their collegiate eligibility, have returned home and are now giving back to the club as coaches.
They are Christian Black, Shawn Lockhart and Edwina Missick.
The club, however, prides on the fact that one of their alumni, Dominique Higgins, is now a neurosurgeon and Olympian Ojay
Ferguson is coaching in the United States. “The club has produced some exceptional athletes, who have paved the way,” Bodie said. “I’m quite sure they are doing very well. They are all doing very well.”
Higgins will be returning home in December to be the guest speaker for the club’s 26th awards banquet. And the club’s highest award presented is named after Higgins, a former sprinter.
BAHAMAS COMPLETES POOL B OF DAVIS CUP AMERICAN ZONE IV TIE WITH PERFECT
4-0 WIN-LOSS RECORD
performance from Team Bahamas” Bowe said although the tie was sealed in the singles, he and Nottage wantedtoputtheirstamp of approval on it in the doubles.
“It is good to get a day offbeforewegooutthere and play the promotional round on Saturday. That was the goal all along,” said Bowe, the rookie member of the tem.
“The grouping was nice, but the real goal is to get to Saturday and take care of business.”
Armbrister, playing at No.2 in the first match of the day for the third straight tie, said he stuck to the game plan and got the job done.
“Unfortunately, my opponent retired at 1-0 in the second set, but I’m just grateful for the win,” said Armbrister, who is making his third appearance on the team.
“We’re excited for the win, but we understand that the job is not finished yet,” Armbrister lamented.
“But we’re locked in for Saturday for the promotion match. We’re excited for that and to bring The Bahamas back into zone three.”
As for Nottage, the team is still playing phenomenal.
“Today really confirmed that we will be in the promotional playoffs on Saturday, so we’re just getting prepared for that,” Nottage said. “We have tomorrow off, so we’re just going to stay focused,lockedinandget prepared for Saturday.”
The other member of the team, Michael Major Jr, sat out for the third timeafterplayingthefirst match of the tournament on Monday when Team Bahamas won 2-1 over Cuba.’’
“I think the teams did very well today, a dominating win, 3-0,” said Major Jr as he supported the players. “We just focused on Saturday and getting the job done tht we came here to do.
“We’re going to scout the two teams that we will possibly play on Saturdayandcomeupwitha game plan, strategies and implementing what we’ve been doing as a team.”
big. Every country honours someone every 50 years, especially when they do good.”
Elisha Obed’s achievement, according to Miller, was the first major accomplishment by an individual Bahamian, although Nathaniel Knowles won the silver medal as an amateur at the 1974 Central American and Caribbean Games, Sir Durward “Sea Wolf” Knowles teamed up with Cecil Cooke to win the gold in the Star class of sailing at the 1964 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan after he and Sloane Farrington won the bronze at the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne, Australia. And Ed Armbrister captured a Major League title with the Cincinnati Reds in 1975, but that was in a team atmosphere as well.
But Miller said Elisha Obed stood out for his individualprowessontheworld
stage as a professional, but he’s yet to receive any accolades for his tremendous feat.
“What really is discouraging is that we have sent letter after letter to the government and they never give you a reply to say that they received the letter,” he said.
“We’ve personally sent letters to this Prime Minister, Philip “Brave” Davis and the Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, Mario Bowleg, so they can’t say they have not received any communication from the committee.”
All through the Caribbean, Miller said athletes have been honoured and
recognised for their accomplishments, but they have still not gotten anything for Elisha Obed. He said the committee made the recognition, based on consultation with his family, to rename East Street, an area where the deceased boxer grew up, after him.
“We need to get to the point where we teach our young people the history of The Bahamas and by honouring these individuals for their achievements, they get a better understanding of the history of The Bahamas,” Miller said. Miller said the committee was started by himself and George Turner in 1997
when they ran across a few young men who were arguing about Michael Jordan, but they didn’t know anything about Elisha Obed. The committee, which now includes Vincent Strachan, Quincy Pratt, Marvin Smith, Michelle Minus and Pat “The Centreville’ Assassin” Strachan will continuetolobbyforjustice for Elisha Obed. Elisha Obed started his amateur boxing career at the age of 12, producing an impressive 46-0 win-loss record before he turned pro at the age of 14. He accumulated a 91-22 record before he
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ROADRUNNERS sprinter Trent Ford and middle distance runner Akaree Roberts are set to further their athletic careers in college. Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
In memory of Dwaine Stevens
ON THE REPLAY: New Providence Softball Association completed its Dwaine ‘Mann’ Stevens Memorial Classic late Monday night in the Bankers Fields at the Baillou Hills Sporting Complex. In the developmental league game, the Spartans knocked off the Cyber Tech Blue Marlins 12-7, the Sunshine Auto Wildcats doubled up the Black Scorpions 8-4 to take home the ladies’ title and the Superior Waste Gremlins were crowned the men’s champions as they held off the Titans 14-12. The mid-season tournament was held to honour their immediate past president Dwaine ‘Mann’ Stevens, who passed away recently while serving in office.
Eagles’ tush push play helps secure 34-27 preseason win over Bengals
By DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer
PHILADELPHIA (AP)
— Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and most of the startinglineupthatreturned for the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles tookanightoff.
Thetushpushisalwaysin play.
Without Hurts behind centre, the Eagles used the contentious short-yardage play to success again, beating a potential ban in the offseason, then getting a helpful shove on quarterback Tanner McKee for a score to help Philadelphia beat the Cincinnati Bengals 34-27 last night in the preseason opener for both teams.
The Eagles wasted no time breaking out the play that narrowly survived banishment to live on in the playbook.
Against a Bengals team that played starters, including QB Joe Burrow and NFL receiving leader Ja’Marr Chase, the Eagles had the crowd buzzing when they assembled in the familiar formation on fourth-and-1 on their opening drive of the game.
The Eagles used their rugby-style scrum to nudge McKee into the end zone for the first — of an expected many, many more — tush push TD of the season.
The Eagles are bullish on McKee, a sixth-round pick outofStanfordin2023,and he’s firmly entrenched as Hurts’ backup. The Eagles let McKee rip — he played
intothesecondhalfandfinished 20 of 25 for 252 yards and touchdown passes to Ainias Smith and Darius Cooper.
Kyle McCord, a sixthround pick out of Syracuse and raised a diehard Eagles fan, threw a pick-six in his debut in mop-up duty. McCord, from nearby Mount Laurel, New Jersey, led the FBS last season with 4,779 yards passing, a total that broke Deshaun Watson’s Atlantic Coast Conference single-season record.
Burrow got his work in and threw for 123 yards and two touchdowns that included a 38-yard score to Chase.
The Bengals had long oddstowintheSuperBowl, per BETMGM Sportsbook. The betting favorite to win the Lombardi Trophy remainedtheEagles.
Hurts and Barkley, who topped 2,000 yards rushing lastseason,wereamongthe scores of starters that coach Nick Sirianni rested. The Eagles’ whirlwind offseason included a parade and a White House visit and the page will officially be turned when the championship banner will be raised at Lincoln Financial Field next month in the primetimeseasonopener.
Brotherly love?
Burrow completed a 9-yard pass on the opening drive to Brown and the halfback was pushed out of bounds by a familiar face, his twin brother and Eagles safetySydneyBrown.
The brothers starred in college at Illinois and
played against each other last season in an Eagles’ win.
The birthday boy Hurts turned 27 on Thursday and was gifted a night off. What to get the Super Bowl MVP who has everything?
HurtsalreadyhasaSuper Bowl ring after the Eagles’ 40-22 thrashing over Kansas City and one other trip to the Super Bowl on
his resume. He signed a contract in 2023 that guaranteed him at least $179.3 million over the life of the deal that expires after the 2028season.
Hurts had his helmet off and broke into a wide smile when he watched McKee break down the team beforethegame.
Who needs two?
There’s one more preseason game at the Linc and
one more chance to see the Eagles in Philly at preseasonprices. Tickets in the 200-level Thursday night were going for about $30-$40 each on the secondary market; in the same ballpark for next week’s second home game against Cleveland. Consider, tickets were priced at $38 each in the second level. Seemhigh?
Ticket prices were listed as low as $630 and soared past $1,000 per ticket in the same section for the Sept. 4 season opener against Dallas.
Up next
Bengals: Play a Monday night game in Washington onAug.18.
Eagles: Host the Browns on Aug. 16. The teams will hold joint practices next week.
ANTHONY RICHARDSON INJURED AS COLTS FALL TO RAVENS 24-16 IN THEIR PRESEASON OPENER
By NOAH TRISTER AP Sports Writer
BALTIMORE (AP)
— Anthony Richardson’s preseason opener was cut short early, and the Indianapolis Colts went on to lose 24-16 to the Baltimore Ravenslastnight.
Rookie LaJohntay Wester scored on an 87-yard punt return for the Ravens, and Keaton Mitchell ran for 68 yards and a touchdown. Baltimore won despitejust16yardspassing in the first half — Lamar Jacksondidnotplay.
The Indianapolis quarterback situation was always the more compelling aspect ofthisgame.Butafterleading the Colts to a field goal on their opening drive, Richardson left with an injured finger in the middle of their second possession afterbeingsackedbyDavid Ojabo.
DanielJonescameinand played the rest of the first half but could not lead the Coltstotheendzone.
Derrick Henry joined Jackson in sitting this game out for the Ravens, but Mitchell showed he could be a useful backup for Baltimore this season. He broke away for a 23-yard run, then scored from 22 yards out two plays later to givetheRavensa7-3lead.
Wester, who was drafted in the sixth round this year out of Colorado, made it
14-3 with his touchdown on special teams. Wester also contributed a 30-yard reception in the second half.
Rasheen Ali added a 69-yard kickoff return late in the first half, setting up his own 2-yard TD run that gavetheRavensa21-9halftimelead.
Riley Leonard came in at quarterbackfortheColtsin the second half, and Indianapolis scored in the third quarter on a 1-yard run by KhalilHerbert.
Spencer Shrader made three field goals for Indianapolis but also hit the left uprightfrom52yardsinthe second quarter. Tyler Loop, the rookie draft pick trying to replace Justin Tucker for Baltimore, missed his first field goal try from 46, but then connected from 52 in the fourth quarter to give the Ravens an eight-point lead.
Injuries Baltimore DB Bilhal Kone was carted off in the first quarter with what looked like a severe knee injury.
Upnext Baltimore’s next preseason game is at Dallas on Aug. 16. Indianapolis hosts GreenBaythatsameday.
PHILADELPHIA Eagles wide receiver Ainias Smith (82) scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the Cincinnati Bengals last night in Philadelphia.
(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
BALTIMORE Ravens cornerback Marquise Robinson (28) reacts after making a hit on Indianapolis Colts running back Ulysses Bentley IV, not visible, during the second half of an NFL preseason football game Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Dencil Clarke All-Stars defeat the Brother John Williams All-Stars 9-8
ON THE REPLAY: The Dencil Clarke All-Stars pulled off a 9-8 victory over the Brother John Williams All-Stars on Monday at the Archdeacon William Thompson Softball Park at the Southern Recreation Grounds. Arthur Hamilton, third baseman for the Masqueraders, was named the most valuable player.
THE New Providence
Oldtimers Softball Association opened its 2025 season this past weekend with its All-Star Classic at the Archdeacon William Thompson Softball Park at the Southern Recreational Grounds.
The classic was held in honour of former players John ‘Brother John’ Williams (deceased) and Rev. DencilClarke.
• Here’s a list of the players who were selected to participate on the two teams: John Williams All-Stars, managed by Sandy Morley of Da Boyz and coached by Roberts Cox, Divers and Peter Rahming, Corner Boyz.
Pitchers - Val Mu7nroe (Rebels)and AndrickJohn (Masqueraiders).
Catchers - Kevin Hinsey (Pokers) and Greg Smith (Divers).
First base - Raymond Rolle (Rebels) and Michel Saunders(Vipers).
Second base - William Delancy (Masqueraders) and R=ivardo Major(Rebels).
Third base - Marvin Wood (Da Boyz) and BaltonDaxon(Pokers).
Shortstop - David Gardiner (KC Construction) and Ron Demeritte (Pokers).
Left field - Warfield Bain (KC Construction) and GarvinWilliams(Divers).
Center field - Garfield Bethel (Da Boyz) and GerrinoSaunders(Rebels).
Right field - Christipher Turnquest (Divers)
and Simeon Dean (KC Construction).
Utility players - Nkomo Ferguson (Corner Boyz), Carvin Cummings (Masquraiders), Mivhael Smith (KC Construction) and Stephen Brown (Da Boyz).
Dencil Clarke All-Stars, managed by Gary Johnson (Masquraiders) and coached by Clelia Armbrister (KC Construction) and StephenSands(Poker).
Pitchers - Moses Johnson (Divers) and Vernon Bowles(KCConstruction).
Catchers - John Lockhart *(Corner Boyz) and EveretteNeely(Rebels).
Firstbase-PhilipCulmer (Masquaraiders) and BensonYoung(Pokers).
Second base - Teran Wood (Da Boyz) and StephenBeneby(Vipers).
Third base - Arthur Hamiltopn (Masquraiders) and Demot Charlow (KC Construction).
Shortstop - Brandon Major (Rebels) and Amngelo Dillet (KC Construction).
Left field - Kevin Smith (KC Construction) and Wayne Farquharson (Drifters).
Center field - Sherman Ferguson (Rebels) and PatrickLockhart(Divers).
Right field - Jamaal Ferguson (Masquraiders) and Jamaal Johnson (Corner Boyz).
Utility players - Charles Rolle(DaBoyz),Marcantel Pratt (KC Construction), Shawn Culmer (Pokers) and Audrial Farquharson (Masraiders).
Photos by Chappell Whyms Jr
Jeff Rodgers campers get ‘a real treat’ on Family Night
giving back to the community,” he added. While basketball would only take the players so far in life, Rodgers said it’s good for them to listen and take the positive vibes that they get from the instructors to take themthroughlife.
“So the discipline part is very important for this basketball camp,” he insisted. “And so we try to prepare you on the court and we trytoworkwithyouoffthe court.”
Rodgers, a former talented basketball player, said he likes what he’s seen in the Bahamian basketball landscape with so many playersgettingtheopportunity to play in the National BasketballAssociation.
And he said that is why the camp is so important so
that they can instruct them to get them in the right directiontobeabletoexcel atthenextlevel.
Thompson, who pioneered the way as the first Bahamian to play in the NBA and was the first foreign born player to be draftednumberonein1978 by the Portland Trail Blazers,saidhewasdelightedto bebackhometoparticipate inthecamp.
“Talking to the kids is onething.Youcantellthem about your experience, so it’s so much fun to answer their questions,” said Thompson, whose name was placed on the driveway from Thompson Boulevard leading into the Kendal IsaacsGymnasiumin2015.
The six-foot, 11-inch centre, who played with Portland from 1978-1986 before he was traded to
the San Antonio Spurs and then to the Lakers in 1978 when he won back-to-back NBA titles in 1987-1988, said he was surprised that the players in the camp were so knowledgeable aboutthegame.
“They have some good, intelligent questions about the game. These kids are very knowledgeable about basketballhistory,”hesaid.
“The questions they were asking me were very intelligent and very knowledgeablequestions.
“And so I was very impressed that they knew about the history of the NBA. So it was fun to answer their questions about the game and tell them about the advantages of playing basketball and how it could really benefit yourlife.”
At age 70, Thompson is still around the game as a colourcommentatorforthe Lakers.
He said the Bahamas’ future is in great hands with players such as Jones, Ayton, Buddy Hield, Eric Gordon, his own son Klay Thompson and now VJ Edgecombe, who became the latest addition as the third pick in the June NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.
“We’re getting better.
We’re getting more young
kids coming up. You see them right here at the Jeff Rodgers camp,” Thompson pointedout.
“So basketball and the future of The Bahamas is great.
“Justhowitwasfortrack and field with Jamaica, we are dominating in basketball.”
At one point, the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture hosted the Mychal “Sweet Bells” Thompson and Osborne “Goose” Lockhart Summer BasketballCamp.
Thatnolongerexists,but Thompson said he’s just gladthathecancomehome and contribute to the Jeff Rodgers Basketball Camp because it’s camps that get things started for the developmentoftheplayers.
“I started coming here when my boys were babies themselves,” said Thompson, who has three sons who are all playing at the professional level, whether it’s Mychel and Klay, who playbasketballorTraycein baseball.
“And I bring them back andtheyenjoycomingback and seeing how much the camp has grown and how beneficial it is to young people in The Bahamas, so coming back here is like coming home. You can’t stayaway.”
With Ayton, the third Bahamian to play for the Lakers, joining Thompson and Rick Fox, who won three NBA titles in Los Angeles, Thompson said he will definitely be making reference to The Bahamas duringhisshows.
“We’re going to be talking about the conch fritters and bringing back all of the Bahamian traditions that weenjoyed,”hestated.
“So having Deandre there representing The Bahamasisgreat.
“Every time a Bahamian played for the Lakers, they won a championship, so hopefully Deandre Ayton can carry on that tradition.
I expect that his career will definitely elevate now that he is playing in a Laker uniform, even though some people down here like the (Boston) Celtics, I still think the Lakers are the number one team in The Bahamas and now that they have a Bahamian on the team too, that makes it evenbetter.”
As the No.1 pick in the draft in 2018 by the PhoenixSuns,Thompsonsaidhe anticipates that Ayton will have a season, averaging 18 points and 12 rebounds per game as the starting centre for the Lakers as they revive their status as one of thetopteamsintheNBA.
“That’s what his talent demands, Deandre has AllStar calibre talent and he hastoplayuptothatability and I think he understands the responsibility of being the Lakers’ starting centre and I think we’re going to see the best of Deandre Ayton, the best we’ve ever seen so far from when he was with Phoenix or Portland.
“I think now that he’s playing with Luka (Doncic) andLeBronJames,twolegendary players like that, I think he’s going to take his gametoanotherlevel.”
And although he didn’t gototheLakers,Thompson said it was another special moment to see Edgecombe Jr get drafted by the 76ers Sixers and to see the Bahamians in the stands waving theflag.
“Itbringsalotofnational pride to see the young fellows like VJ and future players to come to get drafted and to represent TheBahamas.”
Also returning to make another appearance at the camp were Shelvin Mack, who played on seven different teams in the NBA from 2011-2019 and Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues, perhaps the shortest player at 5-3 to playintheNBAfrom19872001
with four different teams.
BEFORE the 37th edition of the Jeff Rodgers Basketball Camp came to a close, the participants got a real treat last night as a number of international stars, including Bahamian superstar Mychal “Sweet Bells” Thompson, not only shared their basketball experience, but they also participated in the Family Night activities.
Photos: Chappell Whyms Jr
THE CAMPERS got a real treat last night as a number of international stars not only shared their basketball experience, but they also participated in the Family Night activities.