English-based midfielder Andre Boucaud has never played for the T&T Soca Warriors in a Caribbean Football Union Cup tournament but intends to make up for loss time when he dons the national shirt in the Group Seven semifinal phase of the regional tournament from Wednesday. 

T&T, record eight-time winners and beaten in the final 1-0 two years ago by Cuba will host Dominican Republic, St Lucia and Antigua & Barbuda at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva from Wednesday until Sunday.

The Stephen Hart-coached “Soca Warriors” kick off in the feature match of a double-header on Wednesday against Dominican Republic while Antigua & Barbuda faces St Lucia from pm.

The host then faces St Lucia on Friday also from 8.15 pm before ending with a clash versus St Lucia on Sunday from 6.15 pm.

At the end of the round-robin series, the top two teams from the pool will advance to the eight-team finals scheduled for Montego Bay, Jamaica from November 10-18 for which host and five-time champion Jamaica, and defending champion Cuba have already qualified. 

In the two other Second Round qualifying series, 2007 champions Haiti hosts St Kitts/Nevis, Barbados and French Guiana in Group Eight while Guadeloupe entertains Curacao, 1993 winner Martinique and St Vincent and The Grenadines in Group Nine. 

The 29-year-old Boucaud was a member of the T&T team at the 2013 Concacaf Gold Cup, has made appearances in World Cup qualification and also scored T&T’s third goal in the 3-1 win over Saudi Arabia in the OSN Cup last year and is anticipating a strong showing when T&T opens its account.

“For me it’s very important that we get off to the right start because these are the qualifiers for the Caribbean Cup finals and then the Gold Cup which are two tournaments we definitely want to be in,” he said.

“I’ve never played in this Caribbean Cup before but I’ve heard a lot about it and I know there is a lot of history in it with players like Dennis Lawrence, Dwight Yorke, Russell Latapy and Stern John having all played in it in the earlier years. 

“I know Kenwyne and Jan and these guys have also been there so I’d definitely like to get a couple games under my belt and hopefully we can go all the way this year,” added the former Luton Town man who is now with Dagenham and Redbridge. 

Boucaud is expected to be part of Stephen Hart’s midfield set up and is keen to help push T&T through in these qualifying rounds.

“I’ve seen the team coach Hart has come up with and it’s a pretty decent selection. 

“All these boys are very capable and I think it’s going to be interesting to see what happens when we come together on the pitch.”

T&T was scheduled to train at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar, last evening and will continue its sessions today and tomorrow before Wednesday’s opener. Tickets are priced at $100 (covered) and $60 (uncovered).

CFU Caribbean cup fixtures group 7

Venue: Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva:

 Wednesday 

Antigua & Barbuda vs St Lucia, 6 pm

T&T vs Dominican Republic, 8.15 pm

 Friday 

Dominican Republic vs Antigua & Barbuda, 6 pm

T&T vs St Lucia, 8.15 pm

 October 12 

St Lucia vs Dominican Republic, 4 pm

T&T vs Antigua & Barbuda, 6.15 pm.

T&T 20-man squad: 

Goalkeepers: Jan-Michael Williams (Central FC), Marvin Phillips (Pt Fortin Civic Centre)

Defenders: Yohance Marshall (un-attached), Sheldon Bateau (KV Mechelen), Carlyle Mitchell (Vancouver Whitecaps), Daneil Cyrus (Ha Noi T&T), Alvin Jones (W Connection), Justin Hoyte (Millwall)

Midfielders: Joevin Jones (HJK Helsinki), Andre Boucaud (Dagenham & Redbridge), Khaleem Hyland (Racing Genk), Kevan George (Columbus Crew), Ataulla Guerra (Central FC), Leston Paul (Central FC), Lester Peltier (Slovan Bratislava), Hughtun Hector (Hanoi T&T), Kevin Molino (Orlando City) Forwards: Kenwyne Jones (Cardiff City), Trevin Caesar (San Antonio Scorpions), Cordell Cato (San Jose Earthquakes)

SANTIAGO: ELMA - formerly of #10 Second Street East, Beaulieu Avenue, Trincity departed this life peacefully praying at her residence on Tuesday 23rd September, 2014 at the age of 84. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered as the:Mother of: Dr. Michael Santiago Grandmother of: Richard, Gemma and Christopher Santiago, Olivia & Passy-Jakob Palomaki Daughter of: Doris Santiago (Dec.)Sister of: Aldwin Darlington and Cynthia Chee-A-Wai.Great Grandmother of: Gabriel Santiago, Reuben, Ezra and Levi Palomaki Aunt of: Elizabeth Faye (Dec.), Maurice, Gerard Darlington, Nicole Darlington- Jacob, Giselle Darlington, Kurt, Sean and Alicia Chee-A-Wai The funeral service for the late Elma Santiago takes place on Tuesday 30th September, 2014 from 10:00am at the Woodbrook Pentecostal Church #53 Gallus Street, Woodbrook followed by a 2:00pm Cremation at Belgroves Memorial Centre and Crematorium #10 Orange Grove Road, Trincity 223-2178 Ext. 556.

DE BOULET: HELEN, formerly of Erin Cap-de-Ville Road, Point- Fortin departed this life on Wednesday 24th September, 2014 at the age of 71 years. She would lovingly be remembered as the; Wife of: Reuben de Boulet Mother of: Rene, Debbie, Hélène, Chrisanta-Ann and Randy Grandmother of: Dale, Natalie, Reagan, Rashad, Nikolette, Denecia, Rooney and Ria. Daughter of: The Late Rita and Sylvester Acosta Sister of: Brenda, Denise, Jenny, Richard, Terry, Hazel, Anna, Maxine and ElesiaIn Law of: The De Boulet’s, Oxley’s, Campbell’s and Urbano’s (Moruga) Aunt of: Twenty (20)Cousin of: The Lee Foon’s, Branka’s, Brereton’s, John’s (Fyzabad) and BrathwaitesFriend of: Annette Thomas, Marvlyn Lucas (USA), Susan Rojas, Emlyn Jack, Rickey and Marlyn Sinaswee Member of: The Trinmar Retiree’s Association The funeral service for the late Helen De Boulet will take place at 10:00am on Tuesday 30th September, 2014 at St. Anthony’s R.C Church, Point Fortin followed by cremation at Belgroves Crematorium 107-109 Coffee Street San Fernando at 2:00pm.

NAMSOO: DR GORDON. F.R.C.S. passed away on September 28th. Very beloved father of Lisa Ghany and Simon Namsoo.Husband of Ann Mc Hugh, Grandfather of Saara De Frieitas (Kieran) and Sofiyah Ghany.Great grandfather of Kaiya, Leah-Grace and James. Uncle of Elizabeth, Margaret, David and Kathryn Namsoo. Brother of Terry, Dot, Grace ken and Arthur (all deceased). Brother-in-law of Helen Namsoo. Dearly cared for by Angela, Cheryl and Cindy. Relative of the Namsoos. Kangaloos and Armoogams. Funeral arrangements to be announced. For enquiries: call C&B: 625-1170.

SAMUEL: BAYNE also called called Sk Bayne passed away peacefully at his residence #5 Aguasanta Avenue, Diego Martin on Thursday 25th September, 2014. Companion of Marva HAll.Father of Rd Bernadette Marson,Chilesia,Corintia,Kadlam, Libran, Everns, Steve, David, Andre, Roslyn, Suzette,John, Gideon, Eileen,Ayana, Eric,Mervyn, Nyron, Sharon ,Lisa, Michael &Giselle. Grandfather of Khalilah, Theres, Stephan, Cian, Njsane & many others.Uncle of Dr Eastlyn Mc Kenzie,Dr Victor Wheeler,Dr Gillian Wheeler, Alana & Cathy-ann Wheeler, Collins Thomas, Helen, Heather & David Solomon,Patrice Williams,Joy Marson,Cloyd Jack and many others.Cousin of the Baynes,Clarkes, Sobers, Campbells, Solomons, Thomas, Briggs, Jac-Tobago. Funeral service on Wednesday October 1st, 2014 at 10:00am at St Michael & All Angels Anglican Church,Wendy Fitzwilliam Boulevard,Diamond Vale,Diego Martin followed by interment at the Diego Martin Anglican Cemetery.

MONTEIL: SELMA (Babs) nee Rawlins peacefully departed this life on 27th September, 2014 at the age of 89. Daughter of the late Frederick and Adelaine. Widow of Edwin “Boysie”. Beloved mother of Marcelle, Sullivan (deceased), Ian “Jonesy”, Michelle Monteil- Allum (Marlon) and Gervais “Veck” (Laurel). Grandmother of Shannon and Shane. Sister of Marjorie Marino, Frederick “Sonny” Rawlins, Jean Archbald (all deceased) and Melony Delzin (Selwyn). Sister-in-law of Louis, Sister Catherine, Bernadine Monteil, Therese Ghent, Rita Bovell, Joan Joseph (all deceased) and Winnifred Archbald. Aunt of the Marino, Rawlins, Archbald, Monteil, Ghent, Bovell and Joseph families. Funeral at 9:45am on Friday 3rd October, 2014 at St Theresa's R.C. Church, Woodbrook thence to the Mucurapo Cemetery. A collection will be taken up St Theresa's R.C. Church. For enquiries, call C&B 625-1170

KISSOON: IVY ADELINE died on 26th September 2014. Sister of Clever, Freddie, Tommy (dec), Crissie (dec), Victor (dec), Dolly (dec). Relative of the Kissoon family. Aunt of many. Funeral will take place on Wednesday 1st October 2014 at 9:00am at St. Patrick's R.C. Church, Maraval Road, Newton and thence to the Cinery, Long Circular Road, St. James for cremation at 12:00 noon. For information contact Clark & Battoo Chaguanas @665-5266.

RAGHUNANAN: BEATRICE better known as 'Guy' or 'Ms. Charlie', formerly of St. Margaret's Village, Claxton Bay, died peacefully at her daughter's residence, Trincity, on September 25th 2014, at the age of 93. She was the daughter of: The late William and Nellie Bissessar. Wife of: The late Charles 'Charlie' Raghunanan. Mother of: Peter (Dec.), Lynette, Annette, Terrence, Franklyn (Dec.) Zita, Jacqueline, Ingram, Miraby and Ray (Dec.). Grandmother of: Denise, Frances, Collin (Dec.), Allan, Delisa (Daughn), Keith (Jody),Roopchand, Rhea, Sterling, Richard, Marsha, Peter, Abigail, Donna Marie, Anna Marie, Richard, Dominic and Reena. Great Grandmother of: Jeremy, Bridgette, Caitlin, Nicholas, Stephen, Daniel, Matilda, Trinity, Gerard, Ashleigh, Angelina, Kimberly, Justin and Rishard. Motherin- Law of: Sewnanan & John Ablack, Phillip Robson, and Pattie Raghunanan. Grand Mother-in-Law of: Kumar, Melanie, Marsha, Tom, Sarah and four others. Sister of: Sylvia Rampersaud, and the late Joseph (Joe), Albert (Boysie) and Wilfred (Molly) Bissessar. Aunt of: The Bissessars, Rampersauds and Maharajs. Sister-in-Law of: Marjorie, May, Sheila, Edmund, Lawrence, Laura, and Grace. Relative of the: The Bissessars of Maracas (Sydney, Leon and others), Edwins, Mitchells, Patricks, Brewsters, Henrys, Georges and Gabriels. Dear Friend of: Sr. Jude Marie, Sr. Paul Maria Clarke, Menita, Helen, Lind-

SAMMY: CONSTANCE Margaret died peacefully on 27th September, 2014. Daughter of Christopher and Cecelia Sammy (dec). Sister of Michael (dec.) Rose and Charles (frederick). Niece of Grace Mitchell & many others (dec.).Aunt of Anil, Roseanna, Debra, Allan & Christopher. Sister-in-law of Theresa and Luciene. Cousins of Mitchells, Samnadas, Madrays, Moores, Dwarikas, Elliots and Ramsammys. Funeral Service at Church of Assumption on Wednesday 1st October 2014 at 9:00am ath thence to Western Cemetery for 11:00am

WORRELL: CURLAN Jr. aka Dave. We are sad to announce the passing of Curlan Worrell of Lp 50 Parrylands Road, Gonzales Village, Guapo, formerly of 192 Pt. Sadle Road, Pt. D'or, La Brea, who departed this life on Tuesday 23rd September, 2014 at age 54. He will be affectionately remebered as the loving Son of 733Curlan and Agneta Worrell (Deceased). Father of Leon, Neline and kurt Worell. Dear friend and partner of Elizabeth La Barrie. Brother of Juanita Edwards, Dawn Worrell, Lydia Worell Lee, Gale Alexis, Jennifer Worell and the Carol Worell Ferguson (Deceased). Nephew of Eulanie Worell. Uncle of Tisha Keston Asha, Alicia, Abiola, Andre, Afiya, Kegan, Keon, Kyle, Marva, Kerwin, Mervyn, Arva, Marsha, Marissa and Marvellin (Deceased). Great Uncle of many. Cousin of many. Brother-in-law of Cliff Lee, Andre Alexis, Owen Edwards and Norris Freguson. Relative of The Wall Family. Funeral Service at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday 30th September, 2014 from the La Brea Roman Catholic Church thence to the La Brea Cemetery for interment. Enquires can be made at Elite Funeral Homes Ltd @ 648-3462.

At the end of a one-day group session that was meant to empower supervisors to achieve self-mastery and the ability to model the way for the employees they supervised, one supervisor ended the day with an honest declaration, “When I walked in here this morning, I thought that I would be hearing a lot of psycho-babble, but this session has helped me to focus on my strengths and the areas I need to improve. I really learned so much and today, I have such a different opinion of psychology.” Of course, I was happy to learn of one participant’s transformation but I am even happier that there appears to be a nation-wide transformation and acceptance of the fact that we all need help with coping at various points in our lives. 

So many more psychologists are now available and so many more are no longer trapped by the stigma that one has to be crazy to visit with a psychologist. There is greater understanding that psychology includes and addresses many areas like the developmental, industrial, educational, social, experimental, physiological, social and clinical challenges in today’s complex environment. The field of psychology can serve as an important and vital role in offering support and coping skills to children, adults and organisations personally and professionally. Every professional in this “helping” profession has an opportunity to make a difference in our country as we grapple with life as it unfolds today.

It is also vital for everyone to know that psychologists are available and one should feel comfortable to reach out and seek the help and guidance whether the problem is work-related or personal. Sometimes, taking that first step to talk to a psychologist is the first step in making a much-needed change as one strives to learn and grow. So, if you are in a leadership position and there are challenges in your workplace, do not hesitate to seek the help of a psychologist. Of course, a need can also be experienced by parents as they struggle to raise children in a world that has changed so much. Many parents are confused about the limits they should set with the use of technology or how they should discipline. Many parents are struggling with children who have learning difficulties or behavior that is not acceptable. Then, there are more serious challenges when children are born with physical or mental handicaps and parents do not know where to turn. Now, there are psychologists who are more available and ready to help or point to another professional who can help. Sometimes, it takes a team approach to provide the best help for parents and many psychologists work together to provide the necessary testing, counselling, training, and coaching that may be needed.

There are other greater challenges like depression, child abuse, domestic violence, incest, suicide and then the serious disorders like hyperactivity, schizophrenia and bipolar disorders that are go untreated for years because so many do not seek the help they need. Psychologists are available to enhance the lives of adults, children and families, and organisations and whether the practitioner is referred to as a social worker, psychotherapist, mental health professional, counselling or clinical psychologist or psychiatrist—we are all in the helping profession and help is available for those who seek it. How can I afford to pay for a psychologist? There are psychologists available in private practices who may have a sliding scale fee, just ask! There are psychologists who are attached to schools who may have fee structures that are affordable. There are also non-profit organisations who have programmes and professionals available to serve with various options for payments. Many churches also have professionals available to serve. The most important step is that first one when you realise that you, your child, your relative or your employee may be experiencing a life-threatening situation. Awareness is the first step—taking some action to find the right professional is the next.

How do you find the right professional? Your medical doctor can be a good referral source. Teachers and school principals are also aware of the professionals available to serve. There are non-profit organisations who are doing outstanding work in almost every community. There are community health clinics. I would first look in my immediate community to see who is available and remember that there is an association now in T&T, the T&T Association of Professional Psychologists (TTAPP) who can definitely lead you in the right direction and provide information and guidance about available professionals. The most important point is help is available!

Dr Starke is a psychotherapist/Life skills coach and OD (Organisational Development) consultant who provides workshops/seminars for employees and supervisors. Please contact her via e-mail at thestarkereality@gmail.com or www.ctclifeskills.com.

October is Psychology Month and this week is Psychology Week in T&T. The week is hosted by the T&T Association of Psychologists (TTAP) and is themed Spare the Rod, Save the Child. The T&T Guardian is featuring articles from the TTAP that will shed light on the state of mental health awareness. Today’s article addresses the psychological needs of T&T. 

Laila Valere
Conselling psychologist

The 1998 Nobel laureate in economics Prof Amartya Sen said, “Human development, as an approach, is concerned with what I take to be the basic development idea: Namely, advancing the richness of human life, rather than the richness of the economy in which human beings live, which is only part of it.”

In T&T, there are increasing manifestations of psychological abuse and psychological imbalances in our nation:
• Fear drives our daily behaviour; 
• We witness negative emotions out of control in violent crimes and in irrational behaviour; 
• The dependency syndrome is sustained by our public systems and institutions; 
• We are all becoming victims of a dysfunctional society.

There is an urgent need to take the necessary steps to rectify this situation. We can create a more enabling environment in T&T for our people to be free of these restricting elements so that we can enjoy a more healthy and authentic life. We must begin by considering: What is a healthy, well-balanced citizen of T&T? With this in mind, here are recommendations which are made through collaboration of a team of eight concerned, qualified psychologists with many years of practice in T&T. The psychologists covered these six major areas: children and adolescents, education, family and community life, health care and trauma, senior citizens, disadvantaged and disabled; and the public sector and protective services.

Children and adolescents
Children and adolescents are our most vulnerable citizens and our future, so we must make intensive investment in services for children. This should actually be the most heavily funded department. 
• Institute a mandatory national research-based parenting program (to debrief colonial style and educate on child development)
• Expand access to Early Childhood Services nationwide.
• Establish a Child Protective Services Agency, fully–functioning foster care system and improved orphanages.
• Establish Therapeutic Rehabilitation Services with psychologists, counsellors and social workers for young offenders, drug abusers and victims of trauma. 

Community and family life
It takes a community to raise a child and we live in ecologically unfriendly/hostile communities.
• Provide basic infrastructure in each community: schools, community center, recreational facilities, police, fire, water, electricity, roads, sanitation etc.
• Social Services: library and internet; nutrition and health education and services, childcare centres.
• Community leaders/elders encouraged and supported with resources to manage and develop their own communities.
• Support family life: national parenting programs, psychological counseling, social workers, sustainable skills training for all members of family.

Education 
Our present education system caters to an elitist minority and ignores the needs of the majority of our citizens leaving them dissatisfied and unfulfilled. With respect to the curriculum, we should replace the exam-based model of education with an ethical and humanistic values-based model that puts people at the centre of development and focus on continuous assessment of core skills. 
• A holistic education that is oriented to problem solving, creative thinking and the utilisation of indigenous resources such as pan, culture, music, dance, arts, literature. 
• Compulsory emotional intelligence program that develops emotional competencies beginning from primary to secondary schools. 
• Life Skills programme which teaches how to manage conflict and to deal with authority figures. 
• A model which values both non-academic and academic skills and builds the self-esteem of each individual. 

Staff
• Teachers must be teaching professionals.
• Mandatory training and evaluation on human development
• Modules on communicating with parents and conflict resolution.
• Evaluation of teachers by the progress of their students.

Health Care and Trauma
Psychologists are integral players on a healthcare team and basic health care services should include the psychological treatment of physical conditions in order to maximise rehabilitation and quality of life.
• Policy makers be educated on the psychosocial damage evident in the society.
• Resident psychologists in each hospital.
• Incentives/scholarships to have graduate students specialise in health psychology.
• Wellness education programs be instituted in all schools, higher learning institutions, GOTT agencies, ministries and communities.
• Trauma education and training for all first responders: EMT workers, police, fire services, nurses. 
• National Trauma Centres be established with trauma therapists, medical personnel, social workers – in every hospital in country.
• Funding and institutional support and monitoring for NGOs and CBOs who provide such services.

Senior citizens, disadvantaged and disabled
The protection of the weakest is an indication of the health of a society.
• Establish an Elderly Care Department and services with full complement of staff.
• Senior assisted living communities
• Low income housing for seniors
• Documentation and video-archiving of institutional history from seniors.
• Empower the poor with education, sustainable skills and jobs.
• Psychological therapy is the key to helping the homeless back into society. 
• Utilise applied technology eg computers to develop skills, to give a greater sense of autonomy and build self-esteem of senior citizens, disabled and the poor.

Public sector and protective services
Restoring professionalism is the challenge.
• Insulate from the taint of the political directorate.
• A different approach to politics which removes the dependency and self-preservation practices of the current dysfunctional political system.
• Continuous education and development of emotional competencies will improve public service delivery. 
• A full time qualified psychologist on staff of protective services to debrief & deal with Trauma.  
• Professional EAP for all public sector and protective services.
 

Three goals in the final 21 minutes gave Naparima College a 3-1 come from behind victory over Trinity East in the BGTT/First Citizens Secondary Schools Football League Premier Division, as “Naps” kept its lead at the top of the table, yesterday. After a goalless first half, Akeel Modeste shocked Naparima in the 63rd giving Trinity the advantage. Trinity could only hold on to the lead for six minutes as national Under-20 player Martieon Watson equalised in the 69th minute. 

Four minutes later Jabari Mitchell, another national U-20 player, continued his goal scoring form to give “Naps” its first lead of the afternoon. Mitchell was on target for southerners in its crushing 8-0 win over Chaguanas North on Saturday. With five minutes remaining, Watson sealed the three points after he converted a penalty in the 85th minute. Naparima moved to 25 points with two rounds to go. In the second match of a double header at Guaracara Park, Pointe-a-Pierre, St Anthony’s remained in second place one point behind Naparima. An 18th minute strike from Andrew Rullow gave the “Westmooring Tigers” the narrow 1-0 win over Presentation College, San Fernando. 

There was late drama at St Augustine, as the home team got two late goals from Keishawn Marcellin to give St Augustine a 2-1 win after Carapichaima East took a first half lead. At St Mary’s ground, one goal each from Glenroy Pierre and Micah Lansiquot gave East Mucurapo a shock 2-0 win over St Mary’s, to hand Mucurapo its second win of the season. Mucurapo is still at the bottom of the standings but only on goal difference. Arima North and Mucurapo are at the foot of the table with seven points.

Results & Standings
STANDINGS
Teams    P    W    D    L    GF    GA    Pts
Naparima    11    8    1    2    32    12    25
St Anthony’s    11    8    0    3    30    15    24
San Juan North    11    7    1    3    26    12    22
Shiva Boys    11    7    0    4    23    15    21
St Benedict’s    11    5    4    2    13    7    19
Trinity East    11    5    4    2    19    14    19
St Mary’s    11    4    3    4    12    10    15
St Augustine    11    3    6    2    15    16    15
Fatima    11    3    3    5    12    22    12
Carapichaima East    11    3    3    5    8    18    12
Presentation    11    3    0    8    11    15    9
Chaguanas    11    2    3    6    5    23    9
Arima North    11    2    1    8    12    21    7
East Mucurapo    11    2    8    1    8    20    7

YESTERDAY’S BGTT/SSFL RESULTS
At Lewis Street: Naparima 3 (Martieon Watson 69th, 85th pen, Jabari Mitchell 73rd) vs Trinity East 1 (Akeel Modeste 63rd)
At San Juan: St Benedict’s 0 vs San Juan North 0
At St Augustine: St Augustine 2 (Keshawn Marcellin 2) vs Carapichaima East 1
At Fatima: Fatima 3 vs Chaguanas North 0
At Guaracara Park: Shiva Boys 3 vs Arima North 1
At Guaracara Park: St Anthony’s 1 (Andrew Rullow 18th) vs Presentation, San F’do 0
At St Mary’s: East Mucurapo 2 (Glenroy Pierre 25th, Micah Lansiquot 80th) vs St Mary’s 0
 

Three different players were on target as SKHY FC trounced former champions Valtrin United 3-0 to climb to the top of the Eastern Football Association Premier Division on Saturday. Jimmelle Ramkissoon opened the scoring in tenth minute and Kevaughn John made it 2-0 in the 31st before Shakir Cole added an insurance item in the 75th as SKHY improved to 12 points from seven matches, one more than T&T Prison which had its match against third placed Malta Carib Alcons (nine points), rescheduled. Two other matches which were reschedules to this weekend were Carib FC against BM Spurs, and WASA versus Boss FC. In the First Division, T&T Air Guard opened a one-point lead at the top with a 3-0 blanking of Eastern Alliance with Jessop scored in the 16th and 37th while Curtel Smith added a third in the 81st.

EFA Results
Saturday’s Premier Division:
FC Maloney 6 (Kerwyn Coa 10th, 20th, 35th, 40th, Ryan George 55th, Kitwana Manning 60th) vs Tunapuna Titans 4 (Tevin Mungo 45th, 70th, 81st)
SKHY 3 (Jimmelle Ramkissoon 10th, Kevaughn John 31st, Shakir Cole 75th) vs Valtrin United 0

Sunday’s First Division:
T&T Air Guard 3 (Darryl Jessop 16th, 37th, Curtel Smith 81st) vs Eastern Alliance 0

Current EFA Standings
Premier Division:
Teams    P    W    D    L    F    A    Pts
SKHY    7    4    0    3    11    7    12
T&T Prisons    7    3    2    2    13    6    11
Malta Carib Alcons    4    3    0    1    7    5    9
Boss FC    6    3    0    3    10    14    9
Maloney    6    3    0    3    14    23    9
BM Spurs    6    2    2    2    12    9    8
Valtrin    7    2    2    3    12    14    8
Carib    5    2    1    2    12    7    7
House of Dread    5    2    1    2    9    9    7
Tunapuna Titans    7    2    0    5    13    27    6
WASA    3    1    1    1    6    3    4

First Division:
T&T Air Guard    4    3    1    0    6    1    10
Eastern Alliane    3    3    0    0    12    0    9
Barataria Ball Players    3    2    1    0    6    1    7
Elements    4    1    2    1    4    4    0    5
Vorsteljike    3    1    0    2    3    4    3
Supreme XI    2    0    1    1    0    5    1
Crompton    3    0    0    3    0    12    0

T&T fell to a 0-2 record at the Second Under-23 Pan American Men’s Volleyball Cup following a 12-25, 25-27, 14-25 loss to Dominic Republic at the Palacio De Los Deportes, Ciudad Deportiva, La Habana, Cuba on Monday. Despite the loss, it was a much improved performance by the Gideon Dickson-coached T&T which was swept aside in its opener against host Cuba, 14-25, 12-25, 10-25 on Sunday night. The Brandon Legall-led T&T men surprised the favourites in the second set and even held a four-point lead and set point, Dominican Republic still won in relatively quick time, 69 minutes.

This after dominating on spikes (30-18), service aces (8-3), and committing less errors, 25 to its opponent, 34 while both teams tallied five blocks each. For the Dominican Republic which swept El Salvador in its opener by a 3-0 margin as well, Luis Adames was once again its top scorer with 13 points and Luis Rodriguez added 12, while Legall led T&T with 12 and Nicholas Prescott and Joel Thedore added six and four respectively. 

Speaking after the match Dickson stated that “regardless of the result, he saw his team play better than against Cuba. “In the second set, particularly the inexperience of the setter was what cost us the victory when they were not able to score the key points. I felt quite disappointed because when the team reached the twenties they had a 4-point lead and in stead of assuring to win the set their form drooped off. Even I had to ask for two time-out periods.” Legall added, “We evaluated the match against Cuban and we came out really willing to score a win. I think we started well in comparison to the previous match, but unfortunately we lost a great chance to win that set.” 

In the two other matches played in the six-team competition, Mexico cruised past El Salvador winning 25-18, 25-9, 25-12 and Cuba whipped Guatemala 25-14, 25-12, 25-10 as both teams joined Dominican Republic with 2-0 records in the hunt for the two tickets granted by the II U-23 Pan American Men’s Volleyball Cup for the FIVB World Championship next year. 

Yesterday, T&T faced Guatemala while Dominican Republic battled Mexico and Cuba entertained El Salvador. Today, T&T meets Mexico while El Salvador comes up against Guatemala and Cuba and Dominican Republic face off ahead of tomorrow’s final round of round-robin matches, at the end of the round-robin phase, the top two teams will play for gold. The third and fourth placed round-robin finishers will contest the bronze medal match, and fifth and sixth for fifth. 

Schedule
Today
Mexico vs T&T, 3pm
El Salvador vs Guatemala, 5pm
Cuba vs Dominican Republic, 7pm

Tomorrow
El Salvador vs T&T, 3pm
Dominican Republic vs Guatemala, 5pm
Cuba vs Mexico, 7pm

Friday
Final playoffs
Fifth place playoff: Fifth vs Sixth, 3pm
Third place playoff: Third vs Fourth, 5pm
Finals: First vs Second, 7pm.

T&T Football Association (TTFA) has decided to join with corporate organisations to lure local fans to once again support football following the dismal attendance at the just-concluded Women’s Caribbean Cup and the Caribbean Football Union Under-20 Championships. T&T took the titles in both tournaments but there were very few spectators to cheer on the teams and witness the 22 goals the women Soca Warriors gave to their Caribbean counterparts or the excellent performances exemplified by Kadeem Corbin who scored the most goals while netting a hat-trick in the final.
Resonance Trinidad will be launching a TTFA Membership Loyalty Card in conjunction with the football association geared at some 250,000 consumers through 2,500 merchants. The affinity-like card will see consumers rake in points and get discounts every time they shop at stores or deal with service providers who carry the TTFA logo.

The cards will operate in tiers—bronze, silver, gold and platinum. A person with a platinum card will automatically get a free ticket to all international games while other card holders will be beneficiaries of gift vouchers, points and discounts throughout hundreds of destinations. Resonance Trinidad is a fully-owned subsidiary of Resonance Caribbean, a franchise holder of Resonance Alliance, an organisation based in South Africa with franchises located in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Resonance Trinidad is a provider of mobile, electronic and web-based services throughout T&T. The company was established in 2006 and they are aiming to become the leading provider of mobile and electronic transactions through the Caribbean and the Latin American regions.

Just last month, TTFA formed a partnership with HealthNet Caribbean Clinics and launched the MYCard Sport programme where free medical screenings will be given to all national teams and technical staff of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association. MyCard Sport has invested $3 million over four years to ensure all players from the Under-10 to the seniors are at peak performance and health while representing the Red, White and Black. In addition all MyCard holders will be providing a $20 cash back to the TTFA for youth and player development. Richard Ramrekha, CEO of the parent company Lab Medica Group, explained: “All of T&T would have been saddened by the untimely death of Akeem Adams and Kevon Carter, and we felt that we needed to get involved and ensure that all athletes get a medical screening even before touching the field of play.” He added: “When you buy a MyCard TTFA you support our footballers including our Soca Warriors in their World Cup campaign toward Russia 2018.” See Page 62.

KOCHI—West Indies cricketers have agreed to take the field for the  first One Day International (ODI)  against India, after threatening strike action, yesterday. The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) was warned that players were threatening to withdraw their services for the match scheduled to start 4 am Eastern Caribbean time today. The action comes less than three weeks after WICB and the West Indies Players Association (WIPA) signed what has been termed a landmark memorandum of understanding and collective bargaining agreement (MOU/CBA). It appears that the players are not happy with some of the clauses in the new MOU/CBA.

The WICB is yet to issue an official statement on the dispute but according to reports, several players were not privy to many key sections of the agreement signed on September 18 by WICB president Dave Cameron and WIPA president and chief executive officer Wavell Hinds. “We have a signed agreement with the players’ association,” The Nation quotes Cameron as saying.
“If there is some issue within the players’ ranks, that is another matter”. At the centre of the players’ issues are decisions taken that significantly result in a decline in income. It is understood that under the terms of the new MOU/CBA, a portion of the revenue, previously divided among West Indies players, would now be shared by the wider membership of WIPA.

Additionally, the players would no longer be entitled to a 25 per cent share of income the WICB secured from International Cricket Council events. The players held a meeting last evening at the Crowne Plaza in Kochi, India, and decided that they would take part in the match. The team was scheduled to train at 1 pm and a representative of the team was due to address the media at the pre-match press conference at 4 pm all at the Nehru Stadium. However, this did not happen as the players stayed indoors.

With only two international matches under its belt for 2014, coach Stephen Hart and his foreign-based packed Soca Warriors will open their 18th Caribbean Football Union Cup Group Seven semifinal round qualifying campaign tonight from 8.15 pm. And while Hart is not pleased with his team’s inactivity for the year, he will have some comfort in knowing tonight’s opponent at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva, Dominican Republic has never beaten the Soca Warriors at international play. In fact, the Dominican Republic squad featuring three players who ply their trade in the Spanish Lower Leagues have faced the Soca Warriors nine times, losing all and conceding 40 goals in the process.

However, their CFU Cup meeting in 2012, was one of their closest duels, with current national midfielder Kevin Molino netting a 70th minute winner  coming off the bench in the 2-1 victory at the Antigua Recreation Ground. Speaking at a pre-match press conference at the Cascadia Hotel and Conference Centre, yesterday, Hart noted that the selection of his team was based purely on the fact that the tournament was a short one over six days and his best options was to choose the players with whom he was familiar.

He added: “I am not satisfied with how things have gone because we have only played two matches for the 2014 campaign with both being since June and now because of Fifa rules clubs are only obliged to release their players 48 hours before matches. “So while our preparations have not been the best as coach of the team I have to make sure that the players get it right on the field of play and hopefully we will be prepared mentally for the task at hand,” said Hart.

With all 14 overseas players in the squad, the locals are considered overwhelming favourites. But Hart warned against overconfidence saying, “We may have a strong team on paper, but we still have to get it right on the field. All I can ask is that they adjust quickly to what the opponents bring and we get the job done.” Domingo Hernandez, the Dominican Republic technical director, who had a brief stint in T&T at the now defunct Joe Public expressed his confidence that his team, which qualified for this round as one of the best third placed finishers in round one, can compete.

In the first round of qualifiers, Dominican Republic ended third in Group Five after hammering Anguilla 10-0 in its final match after losing to St Vincent and The Grenadines (0-1) and Antigua & Barbuda (2-1) and also went under to El Salvador 2-0 in August in a friendly encounter. In tonight’s first match from 6 pm, new CFU top-ranked team Antigua & Barbuda and St Lucia will do battle.

Fixtures
Group Seven
Venue: Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva

Today
Antigua & Barbuda vs St Lucia, 6 pm
T&T vs Dominican Republic, 8.15 pm

Friday
Dominican Republic vs Antigua & Barbuda,  6 pm
T&T vs St Lucia, 8:15 pm

Sunday
St Lucia vs Dominican Republic, 4 pm
T&T vs Antigua & Barbuda, 6.15 pm.

T&T 20-man Squad 
Goalkeepers: Jan-Michael Williams (Central FC), Marvin Phillips (Pt Fortin Civic Centre)
Defenders: Yohance Marshall (un-attached), Sheldon Bateau (KV Mechelen), Carlyle Mitchell (Vancouver Whitecaps), Daneil Cyrus (Ha Noi T&T), Alvin  Jones (W Connection), Justin Hoyte (Millwall) Midfielders: Joevin Jones (HJK Helsinki), Andre Boucaud (Dagenham & Redbridge), Khaleem Hyland (Racing Genk), Kevan George  (Columbus Crew), Ataulla Guerra (Central FC), Leston Paul (Central FC), Lester Peltier (Slovan Bratislava), Hughtun Hector (Hanoi T&T), Kevin Molino (Orlando City) Forwards: Kenwyne  Jones (Cardiff City), Trevin Caesar (San Antonio Scorpions), Cordell Cato (San Jose Earthquakes)

India is in brilliant one day form at the moment and the West Indies head into today’s first match of their five-match series at Kochi with their confidence shattered, after two losses to the Indian ‘A’ team over the last few days. Adding to the West Indies woes is the fact that mystery off-spinner Sunil Narine has been sent away to correct flaws in his bowling action. The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) player was called twice for a suspect bowling action during the final stages of the Champions League T20 tournament a couple days ago.

The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has sent over the lanky Barbadian Sulieman as replacement for Narine. Chris Gayle is still recovering from a back injury and is not here either. The picture looks gloomy for the men in maroon but skipper Dwayne Bravo is looking at the bigger picture with the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup just months away. “Good to be back in playing India obviously they are the top one day side in the world and with the World Cup coming up we will be looking to this series as preparations for that tournament and to see where we are in terms of readiness. We just came off a 3-0 series win against Bangladesh and we played good cricket. We got runs, we had (Denesh) Ramdin getting hundreds, we had (Darren) Bravo getting hundreds, Kemar Roach and Ravi Rampaul bowled well. “This series is the test to see where we really and although playing in India is difficult we have players who have done well here.”

The Santa Cruz man is calling on his men for a great team effort. “A collective team effort is needed as the key for success for this series. Last year we lost 2-1, went into the final game 1-1. We need to look back to last year and look to do the same things we did good and to not make the mistakes we made. India is a high batting based team as they bat right down. “At the the end of it all the West Indies team is not yet finalised, all of us have a chance to stake a claim, no one is guaranteed a spot on the team for Australia and New Zealand, so we have to use these tournaments to enhance our chances.

Meanwhile, India’s selectors have gambled on teenage chinaman bowler Kuldeep Yadav, who had an impressive Champions League T20 campaign. The major changes in the squad came in the spin department, with lead spinner Ravichandran Ashwin rested, Amit Mishra returning and legspinner Karn Sharma missing out. The India call-up marks a stunning rise for Kuldeep, who is yet to play a domestic one-dayer and whose entire senior experience consists of eight Twenty20 matches.

More Info
MATCH ZONE
TIME - 2.30 pm Indian time, 5.30 pm TT time.

TEAMS
West Indies: Dwayne Bravo (Captain), Sulieman Benn, Darren Bravo, Jason Holder, Leon Johnson, Kieron Pollard, Denesh Ramdin, Ravi Rampaul, Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels, Lendl Simmons, Dwayne Smith and Jerome Taylor.

India: MS Dhoni (capt & wk), Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli, Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Amit Mishra, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Mohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav, M Vijay an Kuldeep Yadav.

PITCH  
The pitch looks a good one for batting and history here shows that it is full of runs. The team winning the toss is likely to take first use of this strip and hopefully set a big score for the team batting second under lights.

WEATHER 
There is a 50 per cent chance of rain at the venue but this should not affect play that much because it has been raining in short spurts in Kochi during this past few weeks, resulting in increased temperatures after the rainfall.

HEAD TO HEAD AT KOCHI
Both teams have met at Kochi on only one occasion in November 2013 and India won comfortably by six wickets.
 

The trio of West Side Stars women and men’s teams, Challengers and Southern United Volleyball Academy I all improved to 2-0 records when T&T Volleyball Federation Super League (Championship Division) continued on the weekend.

At the La Joya Sporting Complex, La Joya, West Side Stars I followed up its opening West Zone Women’s Division win against West Side Stars II by easing past Maribunta II, 25-7,25-7,25-14 in a clash of unbeaten teams.

BIG South East Port-of-Spain (SEPoS) won by default from Maribunta 1, 25-0, 25-0, 25-0 in the other women’s encounter on Saturday while West Side Stars II won by default from SEPoS on Tuesday at the Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena, Chaguanas. 

In the West Zone Men’s Division, Challengers handed last year’s winners, SEPoS a second straight loss, 25-23,26-24,25-20 in a close battle while West Side Stars got its first tatse of success, 18-25, 25-16, 25-19, 27-29, 15-10 over Defence Force to leave both teams with 1-1 records. 

Tuesday’s match between Defence Force and Challengers at Chaguanas was postponed.

Down in the South Zone, Southern United Volleyball Academy (SUVA) I scolded his SUVA II clubmates, 25-16, 25-18, 27-25 for a 2-0 mark in the Men’s Division at Chaguanas on Friday.

Two days later, it was the turn of the women, SUVA I and SUVA II won against University of T&T, 25-18, 25-22, 25-11, and Central United 25-8, 25-10, 25-17 respectively. 

And, in the North Zone which was affected greatly by postponements, Glamorgan men and women won.

First, Glamorgan women swept past University of Southern Caribbean (USC) 25-7,25-15,25-15 while Glamorgan men ooutgunned USC 25-18,25-22,25-17.

Today, Zenith and Glamorgan will meet in a women’s (5.30pm) and men (7pm) North Zone double-header at Chaguanas ahead of a full slate of matches on the weekend, including the start of the East Zone.

Tesults & fixtures

T&TVF Super League (Championship Division) results:
Friday:
South Zone: 
Men:
SUVA I bt SUVA II 25-16, 25-18, 27-25 

Saturday:
West Zone: 
Women:
WSS bt Maribunta II 25-7,25-7,25-14
SEPoS bt MaribuntaI I 25-0,25-0,25-0

Men:
Challengers bt SEPoS 25-23,26-24,25-20
WSS bt Defence Force 18-25,25-16,25-19,27-29,15-10

South Zone: 
Women:
SUVA II bt Central United 25-8, 25-10, 25-17
SUVA I bt UTT 25-18, 25-22, 25-11 

Sunday:
North Zone: 
Women:
Glamorgan bt USC 25-7,25-15,25-15

Men:
Glamorgan bt USC 25-18,25-22,25-17

Tuesday:
West Zone:
Women:
West Side Stars II bt SEPoS 25-0, 25-0, 25-0 (by default)

Upcoming fixtures:
Today:
North Zone Men: Zenith vs Glamorgan, Jean Pierre Complex, Mucurapo 7 pm
North Zone Women: Zenith vs Glamorgan, Jean Pierre Complex, Mucurapo, 5.30 pm

Saturday:
West Zone Men: Defence Force vs Challengers, 6 pm; SEPoS vs West Side Stars, 8 pm, Jean Pierre Complex, Mucurapo

West Zone Women: Maribunta II vs West Side Stars II, 2 pm; Maribunta I vs SEPoS, 4 pm; Jean Pierre Complex, Mucurapo

South Zone Men: SUVA II vs Central, Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena, 9 pm

South Zone Women: SUVA I vs SUVA II, 2 pm; UTT vs Central United, 4 pm, SUVA II vs Central United, 6 pm, Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena, 

North Zone Men: Glamorgan vs Zenith, 8 pm, CRISA

Sunday:
East Zone Men: Technocrats vs Toco Youths, Toco Secondary School, 5pm

South Zone Women: SUVA I vs Central, 2pm; SUVA II vs UTT, 4pm, CRISA

South Zone Men: Starlings vs SUVA 1, 7pm; Starlings vs SUVA 2, 8.30pm, CRISA ​