Grenada Sports at a Crossroads: Collaboration, Not Control, Must Shape the Way Forward

 

by Michael Bascombe

Grenada’s sports landscape stands at a critical juncture. The talent is undeniable, the passion remains strong, and the potential is vast. Yet, progress continues to be undermined by a recurring problem that the sporting community can no longer afford to ignore: fragmentation, ego-driven leadership, and an outdated culture of control rather than collaboration.

For a small island state like Grenada, collaboration is not optional — it is important. Our limited resources, small population, and shared objectives demand a unified approach. Instead, too often, sport is treated as private property, guarded by a few self-seeking individuals who behave as though nothing can happen without their approval or involvement. This mindset has slowed development, discouraged innovation, and alienated capable contributors who are willing and able to help.

Sports development cannot thrive inside an “exclusive club.” When decision-making is concentrated in the hands of a select few, opportunities narrow, ideas stagnate, and trust erodes. Grenada has witnessed too many instances where progress is delayed, partnerships are resisted, and initiatives fail — not because of a lack of vision, but because collaboration was never truly embraced.

As Grenada looks ahead to 2026, there must be a deliberate and strategic shift in focus. While traditional and high-profile sports continue to command attention, equal effort must be placed on reviving and developing other sporting disciplines that have either stagnated or been neglected. Tennis and Boxing stand out as two such sports that require urgent attention, clear direction, and unified leadership.

Tennis, once a vibrant and competitive sport in Grenada, has suffered from long periods of inactivity and weak organisational structure. Without a coordinated national programme, consistent competitions, and proper development pathways, young athletes are left without opportunities to progress. Reviving Tennis will require collaboration between administrators, schools, clubs, the private sector, and international partners.

Boxing presents an even more complex challenge. The existence of two boxing associations competing for relevance has created confusion, diluted resources, and stalled development. In a small sporting environment like Grenada, duplication serves no one. A collaborative framework — whether through unification, cooperation, or clearly defined roles — is important if Boxing is to regain credibility, attract sponsorship, and provide safe, structured opportunities for athletes.

The way forward requires a broader national consensus — one that includes coaches, athletes, administrators, educators, sponsors, media, and grassroots organisers. Sustainable sports development cannot be driven by personalities; it must be anchored in systems, policies, and shared goals. Transparency, inclusivity, and cooperation must replace secrecy, favouritism, and territorial thinking.

A broader consensus involves listening to those on the ground. Our coaches in the rural parishes and our sporting legends living abroad have a wealth of knowledge that is currently being underutilised because they aren't part of the "established" cliques.

As Grenada positions itself for growth in sport beyond 2026, there is hope that attitudes will evolve. Hope that collaboration will replace control. Hope that sport will be recognised not as a platform for personal power, but as a national tool for youth development, social cohesion, and international representation.

Grenada does not lack talent or ideas. What it needs now is collective will — a commitment to work together for the good of sport and, ultimately, for the good of the nation.