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By Neto Baptiste
Antigua and Barbuda’s Cliff Williams has been elected secretary general of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), securing a place on the organisation’s newly elected executive committee.
Williams was elected at CANOC’s 24th General Assembly, held in Willemstad, Curaçao, where St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Keith Joseph was re-elected president of the regional body responsible for representing National Olympic Committees across the Caribbean.
Expressing his gratitude following his election, Williams said he was honoured by the appointment and thankful for the confidence placed in him by member National Olympic Committees.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to have been elected secretary general of CANOC,” Williams said.
“To the member National Olympic Committees, thank you for the confidence you have placed in me. I am truly grateful for your support and trust.”
Williams said the appointment represented more than a personal achievement, describing it as an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of sport throughout the Caribbean.
“This is not simply a personal achievement, but an opportunity to serve, strengthen our partnerships and work collectively to advance sport throughout the Caribbean,” he said.
He also pledged to work collaboratively with the organisation’s members, with an emphasis on transparency and a shared commitment to the region’s athletes.
“I look forward to working with every member, guided by transparency, collaboration and a shared commitment to our athletes and the future of Caribbean sport,” Williams added.
Williams will serve alongside first vice-president Bernie Bush of the Cayman Islands, second vice-president Christine Dania of Curaçao, Treasurer Patrick Blanchet of Haiti, and executive committee members John Abramson Jr. of the United States Virgin Islands and Susan Garcia of Martinique.
Joseph’s re-election was confirmed at the assembly on October 18, as CANOC prepares to continue its work in advancing Caribbean sport and strengthening the Olympic movement throughout the region.
Williams’ election places Antigua and Barbuda on the executive committee of the regional sporting organisation, where he will help guide CANOC’s administration and development.
The newly elected committee is expected to work collectively to support the interests of Caribbean athletes and sporting organisations while promoting regional cooperation and development through sport.