Orange Walk Brotherhood Ballaz Set to Represent Belize at Copa Gobernador in Mexico

This morning on Open Your Eyes we were excited to highlight an incredible opportunity for young Belizean athletes. The spotlight was on the upcoming Copa Gobernador Basketball Tournament, set to take place in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico, where 13 different countries will come together to compete. Among those teams proudly representing Belize is the Orange Walk Brotherhood Ballaz, and joining us in studio were young talent Little Jaythan Young and founder and coach Calbert Carcamo.

The Copa Gobernador is shaping up to be a major international showcase of youth basketball talent, and for Belize, this is more than just a tournament, it’s a chance to wave the black, white, blue, and red on an international stage. With countries from across the region participating, the competition will be high-level, fast-paced, and full of energy.

Little Jaythan Young, who plays in the Under-13 category for the Brotherhood Ballaz, shared his excitement about the journey ahead. Calm but confident, Jaythan spoke about the hard work he has been putting in; from daily practice sessions to conditioning drills, all while balancing school and family life. Like any dedicated young Belizean athlete, he understands that representing your country is both an honor and a responsibility.

“I dih train hard every day,” he expressed proudly, noting that preparation isn’t just physical but mental too. From sharpening his ball-handling skills to improving his teamwork on the court, Jaythan is focused on giving his best performance in Mérida. For him, this isn’t just about playing basketball but it’s about showing that Belizean youth can compete with anyone.

Coach Calbert Carcamo, founder of the Orange Walk Brotherhood & Sisterhood Ballaz team, also shared insights into the team’s preparation. Over the years, the program has grown into a positive force in the community, providing young people with discipline, mentorship, and opportunities through sports. Coach Carcamo emphasized that the team has been training intensively, working on defense, offensive plays, stamina, and team chemistry.

He noted that international tournaments like Copa Gobernador expose players to a higher level of competition, which helps them grow not only as athletes but as individuals. “This is about building character,” Coach Carcamo explained. “We’re teaching these youths about commitment, teamwork, and representing Belize with pride.”

However, as with many grassroots sports’ programs in Belize, funding remains a challenge. Travel expenses, accommodation, uniforms, and tournament fees all add up. Coach Carcamo made a heartfelt appeal to the Belizean public, businesses, and the diaspora to support the team in making this trip possible. Every donation, big or small, brings these young athletes one step closer to their dream.

This morning’s segment was a reminder of how sports continue to unite and uplift communities across Belize, from Orange Walk to the entire nation. As the Brotherhood Ballaz prepare to head to Mérida, they carry not just basketballs in their hands, but the hopes and pride of a country behind them.

 

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