Coaches react to shocking death of StGC student
A NUMBER of the island’s schoolboy football coaches have commented on the passing of St George’s College footballer Dominic James, who collapsed during his team’s ISSA/Manning Cup contest against Excelsior High at Stadium East yesterday.
James fell to the ground in approximately the fourth minute of the game and later died at the University Hospital of the West Indies.
The youngster arrived at St George’s College from Jamaica College (JC) two years ago and JC head coach and national senior team assistant coach Miguel Coley remembers the student fondly, describing him as a “true player”.
“His parents always said he is a true player of the game as he always wanted to win and do well and excel in football.
He was happy where he was (at St George’s). We always followed up with him as he is someone who has represented us well since he was 15,” said Coley yesterday.
Christopher Bender, coach of Camperdown High, was also saddened by the death of the 18-year-old St George’s College Upper Sixth form student.
“Well, condolences to the parents of Dominic. We can only pray for them. It is a tough situation for the family,” Bender expressed.
Marcel ‘Fuzzy’ Gayle, St George’s assistant coach, was at a lost for words when contacted.
“I knew him before he came to St George’s. It is tough, and I cannot really talk about it now,” Gayle said.
The game was a top clash in the group and was entertaining up to the time when it was called off by referee Wilverglen Lamey.
St George’s College scored early when Akeem Robotham produced a beautiful goal from just outside the 18-yard box.
Thorne Buchanan then scored two quick goals for Excelsior to put them ahead. Excelsior led 2-1 when the game was stopped.