The History of Jamaica High School Football
2 min readManning Cup DaCosta Cup History in Jamaica
Football, or soccer as it is known in Jamaica, has a long and rich history in the country’s high schools. The sport has been played in Jamaica’s high schools since the early 1900s, and has since grown to become one of the most popular sports among students.
The first high school football league was established in 1915, and it featured teams from Kingston and St. Andrew. The league was known as the “Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association” (ISSA) and it served as the governing body for high school football in the country. The league grew quickly, and by the 1920s, teams from all over Jamaica were competing in the league.
In the early years, high school football in Jamaica was dominated by teams from Kingston and St. Andrew. Schools such as Calabar High, Jamaica College, and Wolmer’s Boys’ School were among the top teams of the era. These teams were known for their skill and talent, and they often competed against teams from other Caribbean islands.
As the sport continued to grow, new teams emerged and the level of competition became even more intense. The 1960s and 1970s were a golden era for high school football in Jamaica, as many of the top teams of the era were from rural areas. Schools such as St. George’s College, Rusea’s High, and Clarendon College became dominant forces in the league, and they competed against each other for the top spot.
Throughout the years, high school football in Jamaica has produced many talented players who have gone on to play professionally, both in Jamaica and abroad. Players such as Walter “Waddy” Campbell, Paul “Tegat” Davis, and Lenworth “Teacha” Hyde are just a few examples of the many talented players who have come out of Jamaica’s high school football league.
In the recent years, high school football in Jamaica has continued to evolve, with the inclusion of girls’ teams and the development of new facilities. The ISSA continues to govern high school football in Jamaica, organizing competitions and tournaments for both boys and girls teams. And the RJRGLEANER Sports Foundation also provides support to high school football teams.
In conclusion, High school football in Jamaica has a long and rich history, dating back to the early 1900s. It has played an important role in the development of the sport in the country, providing opportunities for young players to showcase their talents and develop their skills. The sport has also produced many talented players who have gone on to play professionally, both in Jamaica and abroad. It continues to be a popular sport among students and the ISSA, RJRGLEANER Sports Foundation and other organizations are working to ensure its continued growth and development.Regenerate response
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