IT WAS 8am, the frost crisp on the ground, a few lone players stood huddled on the field for warmth as the tents went up. By mid morning 150 players

from 13 teams were all standing proudly listening to the speeches, their hearts pounding as they waited for the starting whistle. The teams came from Kingston,

Manchester, St Elizabeth and still they kept coming as news travelled that the American coaches were in town offering $JA 1 billion worth of scholarships. The organisers had underestimated the popularity of the event; they expected 10 teams and 100 players and were blown away when an additional 5 teams turned up.


Football normally just a game of grit, passion and energy, united the players with one goal to more than just win medals but to win themselves a better future.

The Tournament played in two zones was full of spice and excitement. Both sides thrusting forward, surrendering and gaining possession in midfield only for the defence to live up to their name. The goalkeepers, in particular made some astonishing saves. The control and passing were superb, at times there almost appeared to be a telepathic connection between players as a ball was played, dropping practically onto a players feet as the crowd roared their approval. There were, as the referee confirmed after the game, some excellent periods of play.

Jamaica may have just voted in its first female Prime Minister but it would seem that women are doing it in Jamaica both on and off the field. With Excelsior’s national players in the TV studio the more even matched team was beaten 4-2 on the day by the combined local team of STETHS, Hampton and

Balaclava. Several of the ladies have been selected by the American coaches and will start college in August in time for the pre-season games.

There was much excitement as STETHS played their old rivals Munro, unfortunately for the hosts the might of STETHS was too much as they powered into the final. Tempers flared temporarily as Black River were knocked out by EssexValley in the semi-finals. Black River wanted the nil-nil semi final to be decided on penalties but the professionalism of the support staff saw the disagreement dissipate as the rules where explained. We didn’t have to wait too long for penalties, as Essex

Valley and STETHS the winners of the two zones went head to head in the final. The closely played match ended in a thrilling penalty shoot out with STETHS holding their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties. The referee blew for full time signalling the end of what had been a successful day for all. The players shook hands, hugged and congratulated each other on a hard fought encounter.

The American coaches were struck not only by the talent on the field but the wonderful atmosphere and spirit and the impeccable behaviour of the players. Never was the Jamaican motto more true, from the Spectators, Players, Helpers, Organisers, Sponsors and Munro College we all worked together with one vision to make Johno’s Tournament a success and show others how seriously we take our sports in Jamaica.

A big thank you to everyone who supported this event, including sponsors, organisers, players, referees and linesmen, those who came along to watch, and those who gave financially. Thank you to all the coaches both from the US and JA and for the continual support you have offered to the players.

Congratulations to Jayshree O Ebanks - St Bess (ladies) and Adian Tillock – (STETHS) (mens) for winning most valuable players of the Tournament. The support which we have had from the press has been phenomenal. Exceptional thanks to MunroCollege for hosting the event and assisting the family to keep Jonathan’s memory alive. Finally to Johno’s Munro Brothers words cannot not begin to describe the love and support, we may have lost a son but we have gained a family.


Thank you all for making the first Jonathan Hibbert Memorial Games such a special event.