The Honourable Minister of Youth, Sports & Heritage Isaac Rankine and on behalf of the Cayman Islands Government, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jordan Crooks as the first Cabinet appointed Sports Ambassador for the Cayman Islands. Mr. Crooks has represented the Cayman Islands in swimming locally, regionally and internationally; from CARIFTA, to the World Championships and most recently the Paris Olympics 2024. 

Hon. Minister Rankine shared, “As Minister with responsibility for youth and sports I could not be prouder to have a dedicated and hardworking young Caymanian such as Mr. Crooks as a Sports Ambassador for these beloved isles. His commitment to his sport is commendable and I have no doubt that he will continue making strides internationally while holding the Cayman Islands flag high.”

The Cayman Islands Government expressed its intention to recognise Mr. Jordan Crooks after his historic gold medal at the World Swimming Championships in Melbourne, Australia. After satisfying the requirements, all due diligence and ensuring compliance with all related parties, this appointment has now been finalised. As a Sports Ambassador, Mr. Crooks will continue representing the Cayman Islands in the sport of swimming and serve as a role model promoting the positive values of sports, physical activity, health and well-being. Mr. Crooks will be required to comply with all applicable policies, codes of conduct and rules of the Cayman Islands Government, the University of Tennessee, National Collegiate Athletic Association and any other governing bodies.

Mr. Crooks who is continuing his studies at the University of Tennessee stated, “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to be a Sports Ambassador for the Cayman Islands representing my primary sport of swimming, but also being able to promote sports as a whole and the possibilities which it brings. I will always work to make the Cayman Islands proud and give my all to my sport.”   

Chief Officer for the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Heritage, Teresa Echenique, expressed her enthusiasm over Mr. Crooks’ appointment, stating, “I am thrilled to see Mr. Crooks be afforded this opportunity. His exceptional performances at the World Swimming Championships and, most recently, the Olympics, not only showcase his remarkable talent but also highlight his ability to inspire Cayman’s youth. His dedication and achievements serve as a beacon of what is possible for young athletes in our community.”

The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Heritage remains committed to developing initiatives that recognize and celebrate our outstanding athletes. As we work towards these new initiatives we look forward to sharing information with the broader public in the near future.