BASSETERRE — The Honourable Konris Maynard, Minister of Public Infrastructure and ICT, took to social media this week to share his immense pride after his two daughters, Chezelle and Alyella, secured championship titles at the Barbados International Junior Tennis Tournament.
The “Maynard Sisters” led a strong showing for St. Kitts and Nevis at the Raymond Forde National Tennis Center, both finishing at the top of their respective 12 and Under divisions. The Minister’s announcement highlighted not only their athletic success but the discipline required to maintain their achievements across multiple disciplines.
“Shamara and I are soo proud of the girls for the hard work that they put in,” Minister Maynard stated, noting that the young athletes have had to balance dance, athletics, music, and tennis with their primary focus on school.
The elder daughter, Chezelle, marked her 12th birthday on April 9 by capturing the Girls 12 & Under Division A title. She remained undefeated throughout the round-robin stage, ultimately defeating fellow Kittitian national Cherika Flemming 4-2, 4-2 in the finals. Minister Maynard described the trophy as a “birthday gift” for his eldest daughter.
The Minister also highlighted the “courage beyond her years” shown by his younger daughter, nine-year-old Alyella. Competing in the Mixed Gender 12 & Under Division B, Alyella faced an entirely male field of opponents from Grenada, Barbados, and Antigua. She defeated every challenger, including a 4-2, 4-2 victory over Grenada’s Jerimiah York in the final to secure the top spot.
While celebrating his daughters’ personal milestones, Minister Maynard extended his congratulations to the wider national team. He acknowledged the performances of T’zuriel Percival and Shreya Rawat, who both earned runner-up positions in the 14 & Under categories, as well as Zhajid Richards, who won the Division A Boys 12 & Under consolation match.
The Minister credited the St. Kitts & Nevis Tennis Association coaching staff for the team’s preparation. He also jokingly acknowledged his own role as “Coach Daddy,” contributing “2 cent contributions” on match days.
“The future is certainly bright for St. Kitts and Nevis Tennis,” Maynard concluded, calling for continued blessings on the young athletes as they return home with their trophies.