Blue Water Shipping Girls U-15 National Championship returns with record participation

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has launched the third edition of the Blue Water Shipping Girls U15 National Championship, with more than 70 schools set to compete across the country.

The tournament, which officially launched on Wednesday at the National Training Centre in Providence, has seen rapid growth since its inception.

From 54 schools in 2024 to an expected 80 participants this year, the initiative now impacts over 1,300 young athletes nationwide.

This year’s edition is notable for the inclusion of several first-time participants, including Mahdia Secondary and schools from the Rupununi and Corentyne regions.

GFF President Wayne Forde emphasised that the focus on school-based football is a cornerstone of the federation’s development plan.

“Our emphasis on school-based football is deliberate,” Forde said. “Many clubs still do not have adequate female-friendly facilities, and we want parents to have confidence in the environment and structure in which their daughters are playing.”

The tournament utilises a 9v9 format, designed to maximise touches on the ball while promoting discipline and teamwork.

Blue Water Shipping manager Rowena Elliot reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to the sport, noting that the “value” of the championship is already evident in the rising participation numbers.

“When the right structures and opportunities are in place, girls will show up—not only to compete, but to build confidence and leadership.” — Rowena Elliot, Blue Water Shipping

Nicholas Fraser, representing the Ministry of Education, noted that approximately 60% of Guyana’s secondary schools are now involved, making the tournament one of the largest sporting events in the country, rivalled only by the National Schools Athletics Championship.

The championship is scheduled to run from May 16 to July 3, 2026.

Action begins this Saturday in Moruca (Region One) with a double-header:

• Kamwatta Secondary vs Kwebanna Secondary (10:00)
• Santa Rosa Secondary vs St. Nicholas Secondary (11:00)

Preliminary rounds will take place across various regions, including Bartica, Essequibo, and Linden, before the competition moves to the GFF National Training Centre for the final eight matches. (Modified Press Release)