Women’s league relaunch fuels Bermuda’s Island Games ambitions
The revival of the Bermuda Basketball Association Women’s League could see women represented at the 2027 Island Games in Faroe Islands.
A steering committee has been set up to bring back the league after several years of inactivity.
Spearheading the initiative is Jaime Cedenio, the BBA director of women’s basketball, who is urging females on island to register for the league.
“Watching the women’s programme go quiet meant watching opportunities disappear, and we knew it was time to change that,” Cedenio said.
“A league is how we make sure it never goes quiet again. This relaunch belongs to every woman or girl who has ever wanted a place on the court and to every person who wants to help her get there.
“Join the league, bring a friend and let us build something Bermuda can be proud of. Our main focus is on establishing a women’s league, but we also have our eyes on Faroe Islands in 2027.
“The real victory will be a programme that is still here inspiring girls long afterwards.”
BBA vice-president Joshua Nesbitt welcomed the revival of the women’s league.
“I couldn’t be more excited about the direction women’s basketball is heading in Bermuda,” he said.
“Bringing Jaime Cedenio on as women’s director was something we felt was needed. He has embraced the responsibility by surrounding himself with a team that is passionate, energetic and ready to make a real difference.
“As an association, we want our women and young girls to know that basketball is for them too. They deserve the same opportunities to develop, compete, travel and represent Bermuda as our male players.
“This restart is about more than getting women back on the court. It is about creating a pathway and building something that our young girls can aspire to be part of for years to come.”
Sports minister Owen Darrell, who was on hand to support the initiative at the Pembroke Community Club outdoor basketball court on Wednesday, commended the BBA for its efforts.
“Congratulations to the Bermuda Basketball Association for re-establishing a women’s league to complement their existing programmes.
“Around the world, women’s professional leagues are some of the fastest growing among multiple sports.
“As the father of a 15-year-old daughter who loves to watch the WNBA, I know first-hand that this re-establishment of a women’s league locally will be very popular. I wish Jaime Cedenio and his team much success.”
Christopher Burns, who is responsible for sponsorship and partnerships, confirmed a partnership with Bermuda High School for Girls to host training sessions and league games on its courts.
• While registration closed last Friday, players interested in being part of the league can still register at https://form.jotform.com/70415951325857
