Gavin Manders, Bermuda’s top pickleball player, is in Trinidad & Tobago for the ANSA Bank Open, the Caribbean’s first Minor League Pickleball event.

Days after competing in the Kim Burns Memorial tournament, Manders made the trip with Mical Russell for the event which takes place from Friday to Sunday. The two will be competing with players from Barbados, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and the host nation.

“Being in Trinidad for both the first Caribbean Minor League Pickleball event and the ANSA Bank Open feels like another major milestone for the continued growth of pickleball throughout our region,” Manders said.

“This weekend represents much more than just another tournament. It signals the continued evolution of Caribbean pickleball and the beginning of a stronger regional identity within the international pickleball landscape.

“The introduction of the Minor League Pickleball format to the Caribbean brings a completely different level of energy to the sport through team competition, atmosphere, entertainment and community engagement.”

Manders, the Pickleball Association of Bermuda national director, commended owners of the facility and event organisers for their resourcefulness.

“A lot of credit has to go to Pickleball Paradise and the organising team for stepping forward to host events like this,” he said.

“Continuing to push the sport forward in Trinidad and throughout the Caribbean is commendable. Leadership and innovation like this helps inspire growth across the entire region.

“For me, it’s rewarding to witness because I’ve been deeply involved in the journey of helping grow the sport in Bermuda through grassroots programming, junior development, national teams and regional collaboration.

“A major part of that mission has always been inspiring belief — not only within Bermuda, but across the Caribbean — that together we can build something truly special through pickleball.”

Manders believes that Bermuda has been a torchbearer for the rest of the Caribbean to emulate.

“Bermuda has tried to lead by example in showing what’s possible through structure, development, international participation and regional collaboration,” he said.

“Hosting the Caribbean Championships in Bermuda and helping establish team-based regional competition formats has been a major part of that vision.

“Seeing other islands now embracing similar concepts and continuing to elevate events throughout the region is extremely encouraging for the future of Caribbean pickleball.

“As both a player and leader within the sport, I also take great pride in continuing to compete at a high level while helping lead both on and off the court.

“Competing internationally gives me the opportunity to continue learning, evolving, and bringing knowledge and experience back to Bermuda and the wider Caribbean.

“For me, it has never only been about results — it’s about sharing my passion, experiences and vision with the people around me to help be part of the solution in moving this sport forward throughout the region.

“I also feel extremely grateful for the people who helped lay the foundation for me along my own journey. Many individuals poured knowledge, support, opportunities and belief into me over the years, and I see it as part of my responsibility to now pass that forward to the next generation and to the wider Caribbean pickleball community.”

Manders is eager to take to the court over the next three days to build on existing friendships between the players.

“What stands out most this weekend is the camaraderie between islands,” he added.

“Athletes are competing hard, while also supporting one another, building friendships, and strengthening regional relationships beyond the court. That is how sustainable regional growth happens.

“The Caribbean has incredible talent, passion, culture and personality. Events like this are beginning to showcase that to a wider international audience while helping establish a genuine Caribbean pickleball identity.

“I’m proud to represent Bermuda and proud to play a role in helping push the sport forward throughout the region.

“I truly believe weekends like this are helping inspire the next generation while putting Caribbean pickleball firmly on the global map.”

Tournament director Kristin Stepp indicated that spectator entry is completely free, making it the perfect opportunity for families, sports fans and curious newcomers to experience the excitement of pickleball first-hand.

“This tournament represents something much bigger than competition,” Stepp said.

“It’s about building Caribbean connections through sport, creating opportunities for regional player and continuing to grow pickleball across every island.”