The event began with a communal dinner, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among attendees, followed by a powerful keynote speech from special guest speaker Naomi Korstanje, President of the St. Maarten Sports Federation.
In her address, Korstanje emphasized the importance of small island unity, and highlighted the importance of sports and physical movement as tools to bring people together across different communities. Korstanje passionately conveyed that participation in sports is for everyone, regardless of background or ability, reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the evening.
The evening culminated with the presentation of the prestigious Pinnacle Award—the highest honor in youth sports on Saba – to Hannah Johnson, who has shown great spirit for sport. The Pinnacle Award is reserved for an athlete who not only excels in their sport but also embodies the values of good sportsmanship, leadership, and a contagious passion for sports. Johnson exemplifies these characteristics, serving as a role model both on and off the court.
The event also recognized the hard work and dedication of athletes across multiple sports, with each team presenting two key awards: the Most Improved Player and the Leadership Award.
The following athletes were honored:
Boys Soccer:
- Most Improved Player: Benjamin Hermans
- Leadership Award: Jose Rodriguez
Girls Netball:
- Most Improved Player: Doreen Alao
- Leadership Award: Jeanique Robinson
Girls Basketball:
- Most Improved Player: Doreen Alao
- Leadership Award: Larianny Del Carmen
Boys Basketball:
- Most Improved Player: Pablo Liberata
- Leadership Award: Denicio Levenstone
Girls Volleyball:
- Most Improved Player: Juanita Ramirez
- Leadership Award: Hannah Johnson
Boys Volleyball:
- Most Improved Player: Richard Torres
- Leadership Award: Rashijden Riley
In addition to team awards, individual accolades were presented, highlighting the significant contributions of athletes and sponsors to the local sports community.
Special Individual Awards:
- Saba Sports Sponsor of the Year: QBR Joint Ventures B.V., recognized for their exceptional support of the Saba Aces netball team
- Student Athlete of the Year: Kristin Zagers
- Female Athlete of the Year: Micaela Dore
- Male Athlete of the Year: Deangelo Gomez
The Pinnacle Awards continue to be a highlight of the year, showcasing the remarkable talent and character of Saba’s young athletes. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the role sports play in building strong, united communities.
