Cayman’s under-19 rugby team recaptured the Caribbean championship in fierce competition and were today (Tuesday, 26 July) personally congratulated by Premier the Hon. McKeeva Bush, OBE JP, and other Ministers of Government.
Their success in the event, held earlier this month, marked the third time in four years that Cayman has won the North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Regional U-19 Men’s Championship.
During today’s visit to the Government Administration Building, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Mark Scotland, JP congratulated the rugby players on their competitive spirit, and on working hard to win the championship.
At the championship game, held at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex on 16 July, Cayman’s youths played a tight final game against Trinidad and Tobago. With the final score tied eight-all, Cayman won the penalty kick-off to finish the battle.
Trinidad and Tobago placed second, Bermuda third, followed by Mexico, Barbados and Jamaica.
Mr. Bush today applauded the young men, saying, “Teamwork and sportsmanship are important, and these islands need good, positive young people.” He also encouraged them to continue their efforts, but to be mindful of their actions off the field and of the company they keep.
Also congratulating the team and rugby officials were Minister of Education, Training & Employment the Hon. Rolston Anglin, JP, and Minister of Community Affairs, Gender & Housing, the Hon. Mike Adam, MBE JP.
Morgan Hayward captains the team, which is sponsored by Dart Enterprises.
Today’s event was also attended by Cayman Rugby Union President Derek Haines, team manager Graeme Thomson, and coaches Gary Southway and Noel Phillips.
