ABAVA YOUTH SPOTLIGHT – UWI FIVE ISLANDS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT
DARREN WILLIAMS
Darren Williams is a proud alumnus of the Antigua Grammar School, graduating with the Class of 2024. His journey into volleyball began unexpectedly in early 2022, when a friend invited him to a casual Saturday practice at the YMCA with Coach Franz and the City South Chargers Volleyball Club. At the time, Darren was hesitant and unfamiliar with the sport, but that single session sparked a curiosity that would soon grow into passion, discipline, and purpose.
What started as a simple invitation quickly became a defining turning point. Darren committed himself fully to volleyball, training consistently and competing in both Division 1 and Division 2 with the Chargers Volleyball Club. Darren officially became a member of ABAVA upon joining the Chargers Volleyball Club, further solidifying his commitment to the sport at the national level.
His dedication and rapid development were evident, and in June 2025, he earned the opportunity to compete in the UWI Games—an experience that would change the course of his future.
Following the UWI Games, Darren was awarded a scholarship to The University of the West Indies, Five Islands Campus, through a collaboration between UWI and the Antigua and Barbuda Amateur Volleyball Association (ABAVA). This achievement marked a major milestone in his athletic and academic journey. Now in his second semester at UWI Five Islands, Darren is pursuing a degree in Accounting and Finance while continuing to excel as an outside hitter for Team Velocity of the Chargers Volleyball Club. Volleyball has become second nature to him, shaping his character both on and off the court. Through the sport, he has learned the importance of teamwork, accountability, discipline, and resilience—understanding that every decision made on the court impacts not only individual performance, but the success of the entire team.
Darren aspires to one day represent Antigua and Barbuda on a larger stage, firmly believing that national success begins with individual commitment and consistent effort today. His journey is a powerful reminder of the impact of saying “yes” to opportunity, trusting the process, and staying committed to personal growth.
