U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. today congratulated the U.S. Virgin Islands Nike RBI 18U Softball Team on their winning start at the prestigious Nike RBI Softball World Series and extended his best wishes for continued success as they represent the Territory on the national stage this week in Vero Beach, Florida.
The team, which earned its place in the World Series by winning the regional tournament in June, opened competition this morning with an impressive victory over the Southeast Regional Champion Atlanta Braves Nike RBI team.
The games are being held at the historic Jackie Robinson Training Complex, a venue that has shaped generations of baseball and softball legends.
Governor Bryan highlighted the significance of their participation, noting that the USVI team is facing opponents sponsored by Major League Baseball organizations, while the Virgin Islands team carries the pride of the Territory under the sponsorship of the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation.
He emphasized that the team is driven not by large budgets but by the unmatched talent, determination and heart of its players and coaches.
“This victory is about more than runs on a scoreboard,” Governor Bryan said. “It is about showing the world that Virgin Islands athletes can compete and win at the highest levels.
These young women are going toe to toe with teams backed by the biggest names in baseball, and they are doing it with the skill, drive and unity that defines the best of who we are as Virgin Islanders.
They are an inspiration to every young athlete in our community and a reminder that hard work and belief can take you anywhere.”
The Governor commended the dedication of Head Coach Elroy Hill and Assistant Coaches Richard Clendenin, Brock Creque and Inocencia Bermudez for guiding the team to this achievement.
He also recognized the outstanding efforts of players Dirajah O’Reilly, Jahniya Williams, Alina Muhammad, Alahya Jackson, Tysanne Lake, Mekaela Richardson, Jaimia Cochrane, Allysa Brady, Kleniya Titus, Rashani Sackey, Brielle Creque, Isabella Viruet, Keira Frazier and Ryann Giddens.
“As they continue their quest for the championship, I want the USVI Nike RBI 18U Softball Team to know that an entire Territory is behind them, cheering every hit, every pitch and every play,” the Governor said. “You carry our hopes, our pride and our love onto that field, and we are with you all the way.”
The Nike RBI Softball World Series continues throughout the week in Vero Beach.
# # #