Under the intense Sunday sun at the former army base, resilience and composure defined the second day of the UWI Five Islands tennis playoffs.
Ephraim Responds with Grit
Jarique Ephraim delivered a strong comeback performance to defeat Dillon Leonard in a competitive three-set match:
- Set 1: Ephraim 4 – Leonard 6
- Set 2: Ephraim 7 – Leonard 5
- Set 3 (Tie Breaker): Ephraim 6 – Leonard 4
After conceding the opening set, Ephraim adjusted his approach and showed mental toughness to close out the match, building momentum as the tournament progressed.
Race to the UWI Games
The playoffs will determine who represents UWI Five Islands at the UWI Games 2026 in Trinidad and Tobago —a biennial event bringing together campuses across the Caribbean in sport and regional pride.
For the Five Islands campus, this marks a historic first appearance , with tennis leading the charge.
Focused and Driven beyond the court
Ephraim, an Entrepreneurship student , described the match as demanding but rewarding. “It was an intense game, but I feel good regardless.” Leonard, an Accounting student in the School of Business and Management , emphasised the value of the experience as both players continue to develop.
Ephraim’s discipline extends beyond competition. Actively involved in church and music through singing , he maintains a balanced approach that supports both his athletic, academic and personal growth.
Building the Future
The playoffs reflect more than competition—they highlight a generation shaped by education, discipline, and opportunity.
With the UWI Games approaching, players remain focused on growth, experience, and representing the UWI Five Islands Campus with pride.
For this young campus, the journey is just beginning—but performances like Ephraim’s show that progress is already underway.