KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) has described the passing of legendary track and field coach Stephen Francis as a monumental loss, saying his death leaves a void that will be profoundly felt by his loved ones, Jamaica’s athletics fraternity and the global sporting community.

In a statement on Sunday, the association said: “Stephen Francis was a titan of track and field, whose visionary leadership and unparalleled coaching brilliance transformed the landscape of Jamaican track and field.”

The association noted that, as co-founder and head coach of the MVP Track Club, Francis revolutionised local training, proving that world-class athletes could be nurtured and achieve global dominance right here on home soil.

“His stellar career is defined by an extraordinary roster of Olympic and World Championship medallists, including icons like Brigitte Foster-Hylton, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Melaine Walker and Asafa Powell, among countless others. His meticulous approach to technique, unwavering discipline and uncanny ability to spot and develop raw talent earned him a rightful place among the greatest coaches in sports history,” it said.

Beyond the medals and world records, the JAAA said coach Francis was a mentor, a father figure and a fierce advocate for his athletes.

“He instilled a culture of resilience and excellence that inspired generations of young Jamaicans to dream without limits. His immense contributions to our national sporting heritage will forever be etched in the annals of history. During this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his athletes at MVP and all those whose lives he touched. May his incredible legacy continue to inspire, and may his soul rest in eternal peace,” it added.

READ: Stephen Francis, legendary Jamaican track coach, has died