The San Pedro Buccaneers, a ball hockey team, participated in an international tournament in Playa Del Carmen on November 15th and 16th. Teams from Mexico and Canada joined the competition, which was opened with a lively performance by a mariachi band and a welcome address from the Mexican Minister of Sport.
The Belize team was composed of island residents from various nationalities, including American, Canadian, Guatemalan, British, and Belizean players. Some notable members of the Belize team, well-known in San Pedro, included Eduardo Vasquez (Wayo) and Heriberto Rejon.
The first game for Belize took place on the evening of Friday, November 15th, preceded by the playing of the Belize National Anthem. The team faced the favorites, a very young and athletic Mexican squad. Describing it as a baptism of fire would be an understatement, as the Belizean team fell to the Mexicans in a clear loss.
Maintaining high spirits was essential, and Belizean Team Coach Jeff Reid focused on doing just that. After reviewing team positions and altering their play strategy, the Belizean team went on to compete in the remaining games of the tournament against various Canadian teams, achieving results that made all team members proud. Ultimately, one of the Canadian teams, the Withrow Knights, won the tournament and took home the cup. If there had been a cup for the most sociable team, the San Pedro Buccaneers would have undoubtedly clinched it!
The tournament celebrated 20 years of touring by the Withrow Knights Ball Hockey Team from Toronto, Canada. During these two decades, they have visited various countries worldwide, including Belize, on three occasions. Interestingly, they mentioned that Belize is their favorite destination.
This was a first for the hockey team, as well as for San Pedro and Belize. Victoria House, Caye Casa, Nauti Crab, and Amal’s Hardware generously sponsored the event, all of whom played a significant role in making it happen.
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