Four Jamaican secondary institutions are poised to continue their flawless performance streaks as the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Rural Area junior football championships progress this week. Cornwall College, Browns Town High, Bellefield High, and Manchester High have each secured decisive victories in both Under-14 and Under-16 divisions during the tournament’s opening matches, establishing early dominance in the competition.
The tournament, traditionally held during the Christmas academic term, underwent rescheduling due to disruptions caused by Hurricane Melissa’s passage in late October. This meteorological event forced organizers to rearrange the sporting calendar, demonstrating the resilience of Jamaica’s interscholastic athletic programs despite climatic challenges.
Cornwall College emerges as particularly formidable after delivering spectacular 8-0 triumphs in both age categories against Maldon High on Tuesday. The team now prepares to confront St James High in both divisional matches at Jarrett Park, where St James High seeks redemption after recording draws against Herbert Morrison Technical in their previous encounters.
Meanwhile, Browns Town High, fresh from victories over Aboukir High, will challenge Ferncourt High in upcoming fixtures. Simultaneously, Bellefield High is set to compete against Alphansus Davis High, while Manchester High faces DeCarteret College in what promises to be compelling displays of youthful football talent across multiple venues.
The rescheduled tournament highlights both the competitive spirit of Jamaica’s rural area schools and the administrative flexibility required to maintain sporting traditions amid natural disruptions, offering student-athletes continued opportunities for athletic excellence and sportsmanship development.