In the heart of St. Barths, the Pelican’s Basketball Club is far more than a mere sports association. Established in 2015 by a group of local adult basketball enthusiasts, this organization has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, emerging as a pivotal player in the island’s sports scene. Through an exclusive interview with the association’s president, Pascal Peuchot, we delved into the fascinating history of the Pelican’s Basketball Club, its goals, values, challenges, and achievements.
The Association’s Beginnings
The Pelican’s story began in 2015 when adult basketball aficionados came together with a simple goal: creating an opportunity for basketball on the island. At that time, the middle school’s court became the gathering spot for these enthusiasts, with Joan Sainte-Hélène assuming the role of the association’s inaugural president, thereby laying the foundation for an exciting sports journey.
Goals and Core Values
The primary objective of the Pelican’s Basketball Club is to promote basketball among the youth and adults of St. Barths. Beyond the game itself, the association instills essential values in its members, including respect and self-improvement.
The Association’s Progression
The association has experienced significant growth since its inception. Initially focused on adults, it quickly opened its doors to the younger generation. In 2016, the demise of the Saint-Barth Basketball association, which offered youth programs, prompted the Pelican’s to create their own youth section. In 2017, the association’s bylaws were amended to formally incorporate young players.
In 2018, a collaboration with a club in St. Martin allowed young players to compete against their peers. The following year, in collaboration with club presidents from St. Martin, the Territorial Basketball Committee for the Northern Islands (St. Barths / St. Martin) was established. In 2019, the association affiliated with the French Basketball Federation for the first time. The Northern Islands championship was subsequently launched in 2020-2021 for U13 and U15 categories, marking a significant milestone. In 2021, the collective became part of the territorial committee of the Regional League of Guadeloupe.
Pelican’s Basketball Teams
The association boasts teams in various categories, ranging from U9 to U15 for youngsters. Among the senior teams, a women’s team regularly faces off against the AS Phoenicks from Quarter of Orléans in St. Martin.
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Although the club is relatively young, it has made a significant mark in Saint-Barths’ basketball landscape. The transition from a simple association to a structured club came with its own set of challenges. The opening to clubs in St. Martin paved the way for new opportunities for players, signaling a profound turning point in the club’s history.
Notable achievements include the impressive growth of the Northern Islands championship. In 2022, the U15 team brilliantly secured the title, while other categories also delivered outstanding performances. In the same year, two of our players, Clément Peuchot and Mathis Paquet, had the opportunity to join the Marseille training center and the territorial development center in Martinique, respectively. In 2023, Maëlis Berry joined the Guadeloupe Elite Training Center, while Mathis Nicolas became part of the brand-new Territorial Development Center in St. Martin. Participation in the international tournament in Marseille in June 2023 was an enriching experience for our young players, allowing them to compete against renowned teams.
Geographical Challenges
One of the main challenges facing the association is stability due to frequent departures from the island. Each year, finding enough mentors, coaches, and volunteers becomes a delicate priority. Housing difficulties on the island make this balance even more precarious.
Future Projects and Ambitions
The Pelican’s Basketball Club has achieved an impressive level of development. However, sustaining this momentum in an ever-changing environment remains a challenge. The club’s ambitions include continued growth, the organization of camps led by foreign coaches, and participation in regional and international tournaments. But each new season brings its share of challenges, including replacing departing coaches and finding volunteers to accompany young players during travels.
A significant ambition of the club is to help players reach the highest levels. Every year, more contacts and experiences are gathered to better support budding athletes. In addition to basketball practice, the club aims to train its players in refereeing and coaching.
Regional Standing
The Pelican’s have been involved in the Northern Islands’ championship for three seasons. In 2022-2023, the U13 team even participated in an international youth tournament in Marseille. Our championship level falls between the departmental and regional levels, which is more than commendable considering the size of the clubs. Talented young players have also had the opportunity to represent the Northern Islands in competitions against Guadeloupe, Martinique, and French Guiana.
Advice for Young Players
The President of the Pelican’s Basketball Club fervently encourages young athletes to deepen their engagement with the sport of basketball. Thanks to the relentless dedication of the basketball committee, a multitude of avenues await those with aspirations of reaching the pinnacle of the sport. The values of respect and self-improvement, cherished by the club, are valuable assets in the practice of this comprehensive sport, both individual and team-based.
Shaping St. Barths’ Basketball Future
The trajectory of basketball in Saint-Barths is intricately tied to the rich tapestry of sports and cultural activities the island offers its youth. The Pelican’s Basket Club will persist in playing a pivotal role in the local sports scene by supporting both the young and the young at heart in their pursuit of this sport.
Cultivating Engagement: How to Join In?
We want to express our gratitude to our valuable sponsors who are always present during our sports trips and when organizing matches on our island. Their support is invaluable to our club.
If you are passionate about basketball and reside on the island, the Pelican’s Basketball Club warmly invites you to join their association. Whether as a coach, referee, table official, player, or volunteer, your contribution is essential in providing the youth and adults of St. Barths with the opportunity to engage in their favorite sport. The club relies on your support to tackle daily challenges and continue to grow. Together, you will contribute to the growth of basketball in St. Barths and its reputation beyond the island’s shores.
