Category: Youth Football

Barbados U15 Team Ends FIFA Campaign with Victory

Barbados’ Under-15 team ended its inaugural FIFA World Cup and Festival campaign in Baku, Azerbaijan, by defeating Suriname 4–2 in the Tier F consolation final on 30 October 2026. The result crowned the young Tridents Tier F consolation champions after a difficult opening stage and a strong recovery in the latter part of the tournament.

Earlier, Barbados had recorded a landmark 5–0 victory over the US Virgin Islands on 28 October, with Kaleb Catwell scoring twice and Raezario Roach, Jevonte Ward and Zion Greene also finding the net. That result followed a narrow penalty-shootout defeat to Grenada, after a 2–2 draw. Captain Danari Griffith also made history by scoring Barbados’ first goal at a FIFA World Cup finals event.

The squad returned to Grantley Adams International Airport on 2 November to a welcome from relatives, supporters and officials, including Minister of Sport Charles Griffith, BFA President Randy Harris and General Secretary Nicholas Branker. Head coach Stefan King said the players grew in confidence and understanding as the tournament progressed, making the experience a valuable foundation for future development.

Barbados Under-15 players and officials before departing for the FIFA event.

Young Tridents Prepare for Historic FIFA U15 Event

Barbados Under-15 players and officials before departing for the FIFA event.
Barbados Under-15 players and officials before departing for the FIFA event.

Barbados’ Under-15 national team departed the island on 19 October 2026 for Baku, Azerbaijan, where the young Tridents were set to take part in the inaugural FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival from 24–30 October. The trip marked a historic opportunity for a Barbadian national team to compete at a FIFA World Cup event.

The tournament used an eight-a-side format, with matches played in two 20-minute halves. Barbados was drawn in Group E alongside Spain, Chile, Congo, Kuwait and Tajikistan. The team was led by head coach Stefan King and captain Danari Griffith, a Queen’s College student who spoke of the squad’s excitement and preparation ahead of departure.

BFA President Randy Harris described the opportunity as an important milestone and encouraged the players to enjoy the experience while representing their country. Beyond the results, the tournament offered exposure to different playing styles and a chance for young players to measure themselves against international peers.

Thierry Gale Inspires Young Footballers at Pro-Shottas

Barbados international Thierry Gale returned to Pro-Shottas Soccer School, the club where his football journey began, for a visit reported by the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation on 8 October 2026. The Bolton Wanderers winger spent time with young players, sharing encouragement and reflecting on the path from local youth football to the international game.

Gale, who has represented Barbados in the Concacaf Nations League, offered the youngsters a relatable example of what dedication and sustained effort can achieve. For many of the current Pro-Shottas players, the visit was an opportunity to meet a footballer who once trained in the same environment.

BFA General Secretary Nicholas Branker praised Gale for maintaining his connection to the club that helped shape his early career. The occasion also highlighted the role of community clubs and youth coaches in identifying talent, building confidence and preparing footballers for higher levels of competition.

Participants in the Concacaf Bigger Game Academy at the BFA Technical Centre.

BFA Takes Grassroots Football Development to 25 Schools

Participants in the Concacaf Bigger Game Academy at the BFA Technical Centre.
Participants in the Concacaf Bigger Game Academy at the BFA Technical Centre.

The Barbados Football Association (BFA), working with Concacaf, has introduced the Bigger Game Academy to 25 primary schools as part of an effort to combine grassroots football training with life-skills development. The initiative opened with a two-day training session for coaches at the BFA Technical Centre in Wildey on 7 October 2026.

Technical Director Philip Marin explained that participating schools would select groups of boys and girls for a 10-week programme covering football fundamentals and social skills. An introductory activity day was planned for 130 children from the schools, using 10 stations featuring passing, dribbling and small-sided games. Coaches also received guidance on coaching methods and safeguarding.

BFA President Randy Harris and General Secretary Nicholas Branker welcomed the programme as an opportunity to make a positive contribution to children’s development beyond the football field. Following school-based sessions and assessments, the initiative is expected to culminate in a festival bringing together participants from all 25 schools.