Jamaica News

Bronx Entrepreneur Celebrates Jamaican Coaching Legends at Vibrant STETHS Event

A proud Bronx-based businessman and advocate for Jamaican excellence, Walford Stewart, CEO of Brand GOFAAH, is set to pay tribute to three iconic Jamaican coaches who have shaped the nation’s athletic identity. Stewart’s celebration of Jamaican sports legends will culminate at the STETHS World Cup (Yard vs. Foreign) event on Friday, December 27, 2024, at the hallowed grounds of St. Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) in Jamaica.

The honorees include Wendell Downswell, Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) National Youth Technical Director; Clive “Lazza” Ledgister, a stalwart of Jamaican cricket coaching; and Janet Burke, a trailblazing netball coach.

Celebrating Sporting Excellence: Honorees with a Legacy

Wendell Downswell, one of the most respected figures in Jamaican football, has long been a cornerstone in developing young talent. Recently recognized with the Order of Distinction, Officer Rank (OD) by the Jamaican government, Downswell’s coaching highlights include leading the Reggae Boyz to their 2005 Caribbean Cup championship and a silver medal at the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Clive “Lazza” Ledgister has etched his name in cricket history, fostering new generations of players through his visionary coaching, while Janet Burke has elevated the realm of Jamaican netball, nurturing numerous athletes who’ve represented the island with distinction.

“These three coaches have defined what it means to lead with heart and purpose,” Stewart shared. “Their dedication to cultivating talent at STETHS and beyond is inspiring and worthy of this recognition.”

More Than an Event: A Cultural Extravaganza

The STETHS World Cup (Yard vs. Foreign) promises to be a lively celebration of community, heritage, and athletic achievement. Highlighting football, cricket, and netball, the day is expected to unite current students, alumni from across the globe, and local supporters in a spirited showcase of sportsmanship.

Stewart emphasizes that STETHS carries a tradition of sports dominance and cultural pride. “The event is a tribute not just to the coaches but to every player, past and present, who brought glory to the school and the Jamaican sporting landscape.”

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An Evening to Remember

The celebration doesn’t end with the games. The day will close with a high-energy after-party featuring the famed Dunrich World Sound System, supported by JAX International, DJ Rup, and DJ Hayle — ensuring a mix of classic and contemporary beats to fuel the festivities.

Reflections on a Monumental Year

Stewart reflected on the 2024 Jamaican football season, pointing to STETHS’s triumph in the Ben Franklin Schoolboy Championship. “This championship win was a breakthrough for us,” he said, adding that it strengthened not only the school’s legacy but also its pipeline of young, inspired athletes.

“Looking ahead, it’s not just about what we’ve achieved but how we can continue building a community that thrives in sports and camaraderie,” Stewart remarked.

Why This Matters

This honor embodies the Jamaican spirit of excellence and resilience in sports. By recognizing the legacy of these coaches, Walford Stewart highlights the power of mentorship and the profound impact these leaders have had on generations of athletes.

With games, music, and heartfelt tributes, the STETHS World Cup (Yard vs. Foreign) is shaping up to be an unforgettable moment for the Jamaican sports community — an occasion steeped in pride, unity, and celebration.

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Building a Legacy of Recognition and Unity

Walford Stewart’s efforts to celebrate these Jamaican sports legends go beyond just an award ceremony. They symbolize a deeper commitment to connecting the Jamaican diaspora with their roots, honoring the achievements that bind them to their homeland. Stewart’s vision for the event mirrors his passion for fostering unity and pride among Jamaicans both at home and abroad.

“These coaches have dedicated their lives to shaping talent and instilling values like discipline, teamwork, and resilience in their players,” Stewart remarked. “Their work not only contributes to the success of individual athletes but also strengthens Jamaica’s reputation as a hub for exceptional talent on the global stage.”

STETHS World Cup: A Community Affair

The event aims to engage the entire community, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia, celebration, and forward-thinking ambition. From competitive matches that reignite alumni rivalries to the cheerful camaraderie of students and local families, the STETHS World Cup is as much about building connections as it is about celebrating sports.

The inclusion of cricket, football, and netball showcases STETHS’s diverse sporting excellence, ensuring that each honoree’s discipline is represented and celebrated in full.

One exciting addition is the Yard vs. Foreign concept, where STETHS alumni living abroad will compete against local graduates. This match format is expected to fuel enthusiasm, offering the perfect platform for sports enthusiasts and supporters to revel in shared moments of pride.

Spotlighting the Honorees’ Impact

Each of the three honorees has a story worth celebrating:

  • Wendell Downswell’s success has extended far beyond the field. His ability to guide youth through the national football program has set the stage for many Jamaican athletes to perform at international levels. Downswell remains a beacon of hope for future footballers aspiring to follow in the footsteps of the Reggae Boyz.
  • Clive “Lazza” Ledgister has spent decades molding cricket players with not just skill but also a sense of discipline. His unwavering commitment to the game and his students has enriched Jamaica’s cricketing heritage.
  • Janet Burke, whose relentless efforts in netball coaching, have inspired countless young athletes, continues to pave the way for greater recognition of women’s sports in Jamaica. Her legacy is reflected in every netball team she has built over the years.

A Global Celebration of Jamaican Excellence

The event has garnered interest from Jamaican communities worldwide. Diaspora members have expressed their excitement on social media, sharing their fond memories of STETHS and the role it played in their own development. For many, this occasion represents a chance to reconnect with their roots and honor the mentors who shaped their formative years.

Stewart added, “This gathering is more than a celebration; it’s a statement of pride in who we are as Jamaicans. We honor our history and heroes while also inspiring the next generation.”

Entertainment to Cap Off the Day

The high-energy after-party promises a fitting end to the day’s excitement. The lineup, featuring the legendary Dunrich World Sound System, along with popular DJs like JAX International, DJ Rup, and DJ Hayle, is designed to keep attendees dancing late into the night. Guests will also enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Jamaican music, seamlessly blending culture and celebration.

Looking to the Future

As the 2024 sports year wraps up, Walford Stewart has his sights set on future initiatives to support sports development in Jamaica. Events like the STETHS World Cup aim to not only honor the past but also serve as a launching pad for the future.

“This is about continuity,” Stewart said. “By spotlighting these coaches, we’re sending a message to young athletes and aspiring leaders that dedication and passion will always be celebrated.”

Conclusion: A Milestone Worth Remembering

The STETHS World Cup (Yard vs. Foreign) isn’t just a one-off event; it’s a milestone in celebrating Jamaica’s sporting legacy and unity. As Walford Stewart honors these three remarkable coaches, he sets an inspiring example of how individuals can bridge cultures and generations through sports and shared pride.

For Jamaicans and STETHS alumni alike, December 27 promises to be an unforgettable day, bringing together excellence, nostalgia, and the unyielding spirit of Jamaican sports.

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