By Samuel Peters
Known affectionately as “Lovins,” “Saddle,” “Goody,” and “Kong,” former ABCA Match Referee Charles Goodwin demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication to sports throughout his life, making significant contributions to both cricket and football in his community.
His work as a cricketer, umpire, and football referee established him as a highly respected figure in both sports. Despite facing various challenges, Goodwin maintained a humble and cheerful demeanor until his passing in December 2025.
Born on October 25th, 1947, to Mr and Mrs Galvin Goodwin of Bethesda Village, Charles built a fulfilling life that included a career at the Antigua Port Authority spanning over 40 years. He was the proud father of six children: four daughters (Nicola, Stacey, Nyelia, and Matarah) and one son (Javid).
Goodwin developed his passion for cricket from an early age. As an all-rounder bowler, he made valuable contributions with both bat and ball. His accurate bowling could trouble batsmen with his ability to swing the ball and execute his signature shooter delivery.
His exceptional talent earned him selection to represent his country at the national level, where his outstanding performances secured his position as a key player. Goodwin played for numerous clubs including Bethesda, Newfield, English Harbour, St John’s, Falmouth, Johnson’s Point, Urlings, and Liberta.
He represented the Antigua junior team in 1966, playing alongside Sir Viv Richards and other notable players, and joined the senior team in 1977. He also participated with the OECS Combined Islands Team and an All Star team that toured America.
Beyond playing, Goodwin established himself as a respected cricket umpire. His comprehensive knowledge of the game, combined with fair and impartial decision-making, earned him respect from players and fellow umpires alike. He umpired in parish league cricket for over 30 years and in the school league for more than 20 years. A memorable highlight was when he and his son Javid umpired together at Seatons for the first time in parish league. He also served as a match referee in the ABCA first-class leagues.
Goodwin’s sporting passion extended to football, where he became a renowned community football referee during the village league era. His thorough understanding of the game, paired with his fair and authoritative approach, made him a popular choice among players, coaches and fans alike. Charles Goodwin’s legacy in both cricket and football reflects a lifetime devoted to sports, characterized by skill, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to the games he loved.
