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| Home > Info Centre > Publications > Alert 1998 > From the Army Barracks | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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The Jamaica Defence Force has played a pivotal role in the rugged and challenging journey to the World Cup in France. This role has not had major media attention but it has been a key factor in the success of the team. Shortly after becoming President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) in 1994, it became apparent to me that if Jamaica was to do well in any of the major International Competitions and especially the World Cup, then our players would have to live, eat, and train in the same facility. They would also have to be subjected to a level of training, discipline and commitment not previously attempted. In developed football countries such as Brazil, England, Germany and Mexico, they all have established training centres, which allow them a greater opportunity to accomplish their objectives.
In 1994 with Jamaica having no such facilities I contacted the JDF and asked for assistance with our projected ‘Road to France’ programme. Approximately one week later the JDF informed me that after reviewing our training programme, it was agreed that the JDF should play a role by the provision of accommodation, meals, and training facilities at Up Park Camp. For the JFF, this was the shot in the arm, which the programme needed. . Although many of the players initially found great difficulty in adjusting to the disciplined and organised environment, this atmosphere was precisely what was needed to start the programme. The areas of co-operation and assistance from the JDF have continued. The team Chef is Private Sam Mitchell of the JDF who has been seconded to the programme. He, along with Grace Kennedy, plays a key role in ensuring that the dietary and nutritional needs of the team are met. The tremendous discipline and great spirit of the spectators who have attended Jamaica?s matches at home, have in no small way been enhanced by the JDF?s operational assistance at all of Jamaica?s matches. Needless to say their efforts have also contributed to the record gate receipts which were realised.
The co-operation between the JFF and the JDF in this project has been a tremendous example of how a country can pool its resources to make progress. Congratulations are in order for the Officers and Staff of the JDF and their football fraternity, and the country owes a debt of gratitude to the JDF for its continuing role in the ‘Road To France’ programme. The obligation of the Reggae Boys to do well is, therefore, even more crucial and to this end the Jamaica Football Federation will continue to strive to achieve greater heights.
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