Calabar need to rediscover fighting spirit — Carpenter

ANTHONY Carpenter, a seven-time Boys’ Championships winner with Calabar, said he is yearning for the day when his alma mater reclaims the Mortimer Geddes Trophy.

Carpenter, 25, once a key member of the all-conquering Calabar outfit led by former Head Coach Michael Clarke, secured seven consecutive titles with the team from 2012 to 2018. However, since their last victory in 2018 Calabar has been unable to clinch the title.

In fact, the team finished third in each of the last two championships, both won by their bitter rivals Kingston College (KC).

Carpenter says he is desperate to celebrate another win with his former school but admitted that he is not confident this will be possible in the immediate future.

“I am longing to see them win it but currently they are not winning because KC needs it more than them, that is what I am observing, so I don’t think they will win it. But, perhaps, in the next five years,” Carpenter reasoned.

Carpenter highlighted the need for Calabar to rediscover their spirit and determination.

“They really have to regain the spirit, the fighting mentality, and the coach has to be more serious. The management team and everything else have to come together,” he said.

Reflecting on Calabar’s seven-year winning streak, Carpenter added that he and his teammates — including fellow standout performers Christopher Taylor, Javon Francis, Michael O’hara, and Tyreke Wilson — were highly motivated and confident in their pursuit of titles. He believes that the current group of athletes lacks the willpower to win, citing a lack of the necessary fighting spirit.

“I think they will put on a good showing for the fans but I don’t believe they will compete for the trophy this season,” he said. “I don’t think they need it like we did in our time. I don’t see them fighting for it because they are just going through the motions,” Carpenter remarked.

He pointed out the difference in approach during his time, emphasising the presence of strong leadership, a supportive management team, and dedicated coaching staff.

“In my time we had a leader, and a good management team, and a good coaching staff; we fought for it. We didn’t play around when we go out there, we fought for what we wanted. If we said we wanted Champs then we were going to get it, but now I don’t see them doing that,” he explained.