Belize’s Under-Fifteen basketball teams had a challenging start in the Central American Games, suffering defeats in their opening matches against Panama. The National Sports Council hosted the 2023 Central American Council of Sports and Recreation (CODICADER) Under-Fifteen Games in Belize, featuring basketball and table tennis competitions.
The much-anticipated games kicked off with back-to-back matches between Belize’s female and male basketball teams and their Panamanian counterparts. The female team faced off against Panama and unfortunately lost the game with a score of sixteen baskets to forty-seven. The male team also experienced a similar fate, ending their match with a score of forty points to ninety in favor of Panama.
Following the games, members of the teams expressed their thoughts and analyzed their performance. Coach Linberth Moody from Sadie Vernon High School acknowledged that nerves played a significant role in the teams’ performance. Many of the players were experiencing competitive sports for the first time, leading to some initial jitters and a lack of composure on the court. Turnovers proved to be a major issue, negatively impacting their overall gameplay.
Despite the disappointments, Coach Moody remained optimistic about the team’s potential. He emphasized the need for the players to overcome their fear and put in the required effort. He believed that if they were to face Panama again in the playoffs, they would dominate them. He considered the current defeat as a learning experience, highlighting the importance of settling into the game and gaining confidence early on.
One of the players echoed Coach Moody’s sentiments, admitting to feeling nervous throughout the game. However, towards the end of the match, the player started to loosen up, albeit too late to turn the game around. The player, along with the rest of the team, acknowledged the need to overcome their initial nerves and deliver a better performance in the upcoming matches.
Despite the initial setbacks, there is a sense of determination within the Belizean teams. They recognize the areas in which they need improvement and plan to work hard to rectify their mistakes. The upcoming games present an opportunity for redemption, and the teams are eager to showcase their true potential on the court.
As the Central American Games progress, Belize’s Under-Fifteen basketball teams will aim to bounce back stronger, displaying their skills and competitiveness against other Central American nations. With valuable lessons learned from their first match, the teams are motivated to give their all in the remaining games and strive for success.
By focusing on areas of improvement, refining their strategy, and getting past their initial nerves, Belize’s basketball teams are determined to make an impactful comeback in the 2023 Central American Council of Sports and Recreation Under-Fifteen Games. Through resilience and hard work, they aim to prove their abilities and secure victories against their opponents.
