Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, Senator Oscar George, has joined a chorus of national sporting and educational institutions in expressing condolences following the death of young student-athlete Keyoni Esprit.
Esprit’s body was recovered on Monday morning, November 9, 2026, following a drowning incident at Rockaway. Even prior to the conclusion of the search, outpourings of grief had begun spreading across the island for the 16-year-old sprinter, who had recently risen to national prominence by qualifying for the CARIFTA Games.
In an official statement, Senator George acknowledged Esprit’s impact on local sports and offered comfort to those affected by the tragedy.
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences on the untimely death of our young national athlete Keyoni Esprit,” Senator George said. He noted that Esprit’s contributions to sports were qualities that “inspire others and remind us of the tremendous potential within our young people across Dominica.”
Addressing the wider sporting fraternity, the Minister assured them of his support during the period of mourning.
“I wish to assure the bereaved family, friends, teammates, coaches, the athletes association, and the wider sporting community of my heartfelt thoughts and prayers,” he stated. “May you all find strength and comfort in this moment.”
Senator George concluded his remarks by offering sympathies on behalf of the government: “On behalf of the Ministry for Sports and in my own capacity, I extend sincere condolences to all who mourn this tremendous loss.”
Esprit’s passing has deeply affected both the academic and athletic communities where he was an active competitor and student. At the Dominica State College (DSC), where Esprit was pursuing studies in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning (RAC) and Plumbing, the campus community expressed immense grief over his loss. College officials highlighted his recent athletic prowess, noting that he proudly represented DSC at the Independence Athletics Meet, where he secured two medals—one gold and one silver.
On the national stage, the Dominica Sports Division remembered Esprit as a talent gone too soon, noting that he had worn the national colors earlier this year while representing Dominica at the 2026 Windward Islands School Games in Saint Lucia.
Several other national organizations also issued statements honoring Esprit and offering support to his family. Alongside the Pioneers Athletics Club, the Dominica Athletics Association Inc. (DAA Inc.) noted that his passion and dedication to track and field will never be forgotten. The Dominica Olympic Committee (DOC) echoed this sentiment, describing his passing as a tremendous loss to Dominican athletics while praising his spirit of determination. Meanwhile, the Dominica Football Association (DFA) expressed solidarity with its staff member, Esprit’s mother Tasha Guiste, and her family as they mourn a young life filled with potential.
The organizations have asked the public to keep Esprit’s family and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
