SVG rugby squad granted US visas

After earlier being denied, the St Vincent and the Grenadines senior men’s rugby team were last Wednesday granted visas, making it possible for them to travel to the United States to participate in the NACRA Sevens tournament set for June 13 and 14.{{more}}

According to a release from the St Vincent and the Grenadines Rugby Union, the team presented “more supporting documents and help from the SVG Olympic Committee, Ministry of Sports, US Olympic Committee Barbados and USA Rugby, and the whole team were granted their visas.”

The Vincentians have been pooled with Mexico, USA, Jamaica and Barbados on their first day. This tour will be the last for international coach Mark Winder, who has ended his six-month coaching contract with the local Rugby Union.

“The Union wishes to thank the SVG NOC, especially secretary Nicha Branker for all their support and hard work. Also, the US Embassy Barbados, for granting them this opportunity to compete in a high level international competition. Thanks also go to the US Olympic Committee Barbados, NACRA, World Rugby, USA Rugby, Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” the release stated.

The St Vincent and the Grenadines team includes Andrew Phillips (captain), Benson Nanton, Aniso Lewis, Kimran Barnum, Gilan Comas, Godfrey Matthews, Dellon Durant, Leonard Matthews, Kenmore Horne, Dugal James, Shane Samuel and Leon McKenzie.