The Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) elected a new executive body during its Annual General Meeting and bi-annual election earlier this month.

The event, held at Chong’s Bar and Gaming Lounge in Christiana, Manchester, brought together registered JDA members from all over Jamaica to shape the future direction of the organisation.

The new president is Deputy Superintendent of Police Jermaine Delattibudiere, a draughts top master who has represented Jamaica well in international competitions. Delattibudiere is also president of the St Ann’s Jungle Warriors Draughts Club.

He would be aided by first vice president Mickoyan Robinson, a Justice of the Peace, who was the JDA’s interim president before the election after Sudian Suckram resigned on April 11, 2025. Robinson is also the president of the MoBay Warriors Draughts Club.

The second vice president is police sergeant Jason Wisdom, recognised as one of the best draughts players in the Pan-American region. He has represented Jamaica well at previous APCA and Pan-American Championships and the Draughts World Cup.

The remainder of the executive included Oraine Thompson, treasurer; Oshane McKenzie, general secretary; assistant secretary Ronald Taylor; public relations officer Lennox Lewis, and assistant PRO Everette Kavanaugh.

In his acceptance speech, DSP Delattibudiere outlined his vision for the future of draughts and Pool checkers in Jamaica. He emphasised the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Delattibudiere also highlighted the need for patience and reasonable expectations, as the new administration inherits a JDA with very little funds.

The new leadership team plans to pursue several key initiatives, including:
– Developing a strong online presence through social media and a website
– Organising high-profile tournaments and events
– Building partnerships with schools, community groups, and sponsors
– Establishing training programmes for players of all levels
– Fostering a sense of community among members
– ⁠Utilise draughts as a form of rehabilitation tool for at-risk youths.
– ⁠Enhance partnership between the Jamaica Constabulary Force and the Jamaica Draughts Association in utilising draughts as a part of Community Outreach Programmes

The JDA faces several challenges, including limited funding, which has hindered its ability to send enough players overseas to compete and earn titles. However, with the election of the new board, members are hopeful that the JDA will renew its drive to promote draughts in schools, improve marketing, and utilize innovative ways to grow the organisation.

The JDA aims to promote the benefits of Draughts, including improving concentration, preventing mental decline, and promoting cognitive development. The new leadership team is expected to attract more players, particularly women, children, and young adults, to the game.

The president noted that the JDA is poised to take a significant step forward in promoting and developing the game of Draughts in Jamaica. Members and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the new administration’s plans and initiatives to drive the organisation’s growth and development.

“Together, we can make a difference and take our game to new heights,” DSP Delattibudiere said.