Virgin Islands Young Women Defeat Houston Astros Nike RBI 3-1 to Capture World Title
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. congratulated the U.S. Virgin Islands Nike RBI 18U Women’s Softball Team on capturing the 2026 Nike RBI Softball World Series Championship, defeating the Houston Astros Nike RBI team 3-1 in the championship game in Vero Beach, Florida.
The victory at Major League Baseball’s Jackie Robinson Training Complex caps an impressive run for the Virgin Islands squad, which entered the World Series as the World Regionals champion and competed against regional champions from across the United States. Major League Baseball confirmed the USVI’s 3-1 championship victory over Houston.
“This is an incredibly proud moment for the Virgin Islands,” Governor Bryan said. “These young women went onto a national stage, competed against some of the best programs in the country and brought a world championship home to the Virgin Islands. They showed everyone watching what we already know. There is tremendous talent in our young people, and when that talent is matched with discipline, preparation and confidence, our young Virgin Islanders can compete with anyone, anywhere.”
Governor Bryan congratulated Head Coach Elroy Hill and coaches Brock Creque and Richard Clendinen, whose leadership helped guide the team through its regional championship and on to the World Series title. The coaching staff has helped build a program that has steadily raised the profile of Virgin Islands softball on the national stage.
The Governor also praised the players for their teamwork, resilience and determination throughout the tournament and thanked their parents, families and supporters for the sacrifices that helped make the championship possible.
“A championship like this does not happen because of one game or one great play,” Governor Bryan said. “It comes from countless hours of practice, from coaches who invest their time and knowledge, from parents and families who make sacrifices, and most importantly, from young athletes who are willing to work for one another and believe in what they can accomplish together.”
The championship marks another milestone in the rapid rise of the USVI Nike RBI softball program. After making an improbable run to the semifinals of the 2025 Nike RBI Softball World Series, the Virgin Islands returned in 2026 determined to go further. This year, they did just that, finishing the journey as world champions.
Governor Bryan said the achievement also demonstrates the importance of continuing to invest in sports and recreational opportunities that allow Virgin Islands young people to develop their abilities and showcase their talent beyond the Territory.
“Our young people continue to show us what is possible when they are given an opportunity,” Governor Bryan said. “This championship belongs to these young women and their coaches, but it is also a victory that the entire Virgin Islands can celebrate. They represented our Territory with pride, character and excellence, and they have given the next generation of Virgin Islands athletes another reason to dream big.”
“On behalf of Lieutenant Governor Roach, our entire Administration and a very proud Virgin Islands community, congratulations to our USVI Nike RBI 18U Softball World Champions. You represented us exceptionally well, and we cannot wait to welcome you home.”
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