MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — Omar McFarlane, businessman, philanthropist, and acting general manager for teams at the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), says it is important to support systems that shape the country’s football legacy.

McFarlane put money where his mouth is when he made a contribution of $250,000 to the football programme at his alma mater Cornwall College.

The handover was made on his behalf on October 17 at the school’s chapel in Montego Bay during a ceremony in which over $2.2 million worth of scholarships were presented to over a dozen students at the all-boy institution. The event was put on by the Class of 1988 and the South Florida Chapter of the Old Boys’ Association.

The event was also part of the annual homecoming celebration that was observed between October 12 and 18.

“Cornwall College has produced some of the island’s most talented footballers and well-rounded young men,” said McFarlane, a Cornwall College old boy and advocate for youth and sports development. “Supporting the programme helps to ensure that the next generation of student-athletes have the resources they need to succeed — both on and off the field.”

The funds are to go directly towards strengthening the Cornwall’s football programme, including acquiring training equipment, boosting player welfare and academic support initiatives.

McFarlane, who continues to play an active role in national football administration through the JFF, was recognised for his ongoing philanthropic efforts aimed at empowering young people across Jamaica through sport and education.

— Paul A Reid