Barbuda Council chairman Fitzroy Warner praised a recent sports meeting in Antigua and called it productive. He met with Ministry of Sports officials and welcomed the discussions. However, he raised concerns about the lack of support for schools in Barbuda. He said the situation is unfair, especially when students must travel to Antigua for competitions.

Warner explained that travel costs create a major challenge for Barbuda. He said one trip can cost about $8,000, and accommodation adds thousands more. Therefore, he suggested a new approach to improve access. He wants teams from Antigua to travel to Barbuda for competitions. In addition, he urged policymakers to review current arrangements and provide better support.

Meanwhile, the meeting followed Warner’s earlier call for greater inclusion in sports. He also encouraged Barbudans to take a more active role in the process. Furthermore, he said a follow-up meeting is already planned. This meeting will include officials from the Ministry of Education and the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association.

Warner noted that Technical Director Sowerby Gomes and others are expected to visit Barbuda soon. They will meet with school principals and members of the Barbuda Council. He stressed that the full Council should take part because the issue affects the entire community.

Recently, students from Sir McChesney George Secondary School competed in a regional athletics championship. The government and the Barbuda Council shared the cost of that trip. However, no Barbuda teams compete in association-level competitions in Antigua.

Even so, some Barbudans have joined clubs in sports like basketball and track and field. Warner believes stronger collaboration can improve opportunities for local athletes. Finally, he remains hopeful that recent talks will lead to better inclusion and support for sports in Barbuda.