In a statement released following the weekend’s Virgin Gorda Summer Jam activities, organisers said the issue arose from vessel capacity constraints and a failure to confirm exact headcounts and travel requirements in time. The East team’s participation in the league has been part of the ongoing Summer Jam competition, which has featured matchups including Tun It On’s 76–46 win over East earlier this month. What Went Wrong According to the clubs, boat coordination for the weekend had historically been arranged primarily for referees, with team transport offered only as a courtesy on a pay-your-own-way basis. However, organisers acknowledged that the lack of clear confirmation created confusion and frustration for East. “Members of the East team were left unaccommodated and forced to take an uncomfortable, early morning ferry back to Tortola,” the statement said. Ferry service between Virgin Gorda and Tortola is a key transport link for teams and supporters travelling to the league, with regular early-morning departures available between Spanish Town and Road Town or Beef Island. Formal Apology The Virgin Gorda Basketball Club said it takes “full responsibility” for the breakdown in communication and stressed that unconfirmed expectations should not have occurred. “While our boat coordination has historically focused on referees and been extended to teams merely as a courtesy on a pay-your-own-way basis, we recognize that unconfirmed expectations lead to frustration and confusion,” the clubs said. The statement added that the organisation holds itself to a high standard of hospitality and organisation, and that it deeply values East’s participation, resilience, and dedication to the Virgin Gorda Basketball League. Steps Going Forward The Summer Jam Committee said it is taking active measures to improve communication and travel coordination to prevent a repeat of the incident. It also extended thanks to East for its patience, understanding, and sportsmanship. “We look forward to welcoming team East back to Virgin Gorda, along with their fans, under much smoother circumstances in the future,” the statement concluded. The apology comes as the Virgin Gorda Summer Jam continues to draw teams and supporters from across the Territory, with recent league coverage highlighting both the competition’s growth and the logistical challenges of inter-island travel. Photo: CM Farrington Photography