Guyana’s junior squash team heads to BVI chasing back-to-back Caribbean titles

Guyana’s junior squash team has departed for the British Virgin Islands, brimming with confidence as they prepare to defend their Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Junior Championship title.

The tournament runs from July 10 to 16 in Tortola, and Guyana enters the competition as reigning champions, having reclaimed the prestigious regional crown in the Cayman Islands last year.

That title marked Guyana’s first overall title since their 2022 victory on home soil, reasserting a dominance that saw them win an unprecedented 12 consecutive championships from 2005 to 2016.

Guyana Squash Association President David Fernandes expressed immense pride in the young squad and highlighted the vital role that improved infrastructure has played in their journey.

Fernandes extended his gratitude to the government and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for providing the resources necessary to fine-tune the squad’s skills.

“I want to say a special thanks to the government of Guyana for these facilities which have served as a great training ground,” Fernandes said, noting that the investment greatly aided the players’ preparation.

“This tour is an important part of our commitment to player development, providing opportunities for our athletes to test themselves, learn, and grow. We are pleased with the dedication and the effort the players have shown throughout their preparation and selection process.”

Fernandes added that the association’s ultimate focus remains on creating a positive experience that supports the development of the youths as both athletes and young ambassadors for their country.

The team will compete in custom uniforms beautifully depicting Guyana’s rich flora and fauna.

The tournament campaign has drawn significant corporate support, with Alicia DeAbreu, Chief Executive Officer of ACADO Guyana, noting that it is “deeply fulfilling as a sponsor to see the commitment from the team.”

Along with ACADO Inc., the team’s notable sponsors include ENet, KFC Guyana and Bounty Farms Limited.

Led by captain Blake Edwards, the talented Guyanese contingent features Brenno DaSilva, Egan Bulkan, Emily Fung-A-Fat, Ethan Bulkan, Jibril Alli, Joshua Verwey, Justin Ten Pow, Kaiden Alli, Kaylee Lowe, Malia Maikoo, Paige Mendonca, Rylee Rodrigues, Shiloh Asregado, Tehani Munroe, Zoey McDonald, Averi Simon, Azaria Profitt, Ella Fernandes, Jacob McDonald, Jude Gobin, Zain Alli, Zion Hickerson and Alexis Arjoon

Lowe would have won the U-15 gold last year, while Alexis Arjoon won U-11 gold and Fung-A-Fat copped the U-17 silver, finishing behind teammate Avery Arjoon, who is not attending this year.

Other silver medals in 2025 were won by Ethan Bulkan (U-13), Zion Hickerson (U-11), and Justin Ten Pow (U-15).

Returning from the doubles standpoint are Shiloh Asregado and Justin Ten Pow, who claimed bronze, and Lowe and Fung-A-Fat, who secured the same honour in the Girls Doubles.