After a week of intense games at two venues as part of the “Kick Out Crime and Violence” initiative, the third annual Caribbean Youth Challenge culminated with five exciting matches at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet. Saint Lucia’s top young players faced off against each other and the visiting National Sports Council (NSC) team from Barbados.
The NSC Tridents dominated most of the week. Competing only in the Under-14 division, they reached the final without losing a game. They beat Lancers FC 3-1 in the semifinals, while NYAH FC defeated Monchy United 2-0, with two quick goals from Mavalon Bernard (1′, 16′).
In the final, Darnell Boohlie’s decisive ninth-minute strike made all the difference for NYAH, as they lifted the Under-14 title. The NSC lads nonetheless enjoyed what their coaches called a “rewarding” trip. Monchy earned a 2-0 triumph over Lancers in the third-place fixture.
GMC United came away as Under-17 champions, continuing their strong showing at youth level in recent years. The lads from Corinth delivered a statement performance in the marquee clash, dominating Valley Soccer 3-0 with goals from Sherdon Sylvester (27′), Shaquil Martelly (42′), and Devonate Ayemany (55′).
Marchand reached the Under-17 final with a convincing 2-0 victory over NYAH. New Generation also advanced with a 3-0 win against Pioneers, benefiting from an early own goal and two more markers in the first half.
On the day of Babonneau Carnival, New Generation celebrated a 2-0 win over Marchand, with goals from Dershavee St Marthe (10′) and Jackson Joseph (19′).
Pioneers took third place after a 1-1 draw with NYAH, winning 3-1 in the penalty shootout.
The Gros Islet Football League organised the tournament.
