KINGSTON, Jamaica — Wolmer’s Trust has paid tribute to distinguished alumnus and legendary sprint coach Stephen Francis, describing him as “a giant and genius” whose enduring legacy extends beyond his record-breaking success in athletics to inspiring confidence that world-class champions can be developed in Jamaica.

Francis died late Saturday, a day after celebrating his 64th birthday.

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

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Trust highlighted Francis’ outstanding academic and leadership record at Wolmer’s Boys School. He captained the school’s victorious 1982 Schools’ Challenge Quiz team before continuing his studies at the University of the West Indies, Mona, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies. He later obtained a Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Michigan Business School.

The Trust said Francis went on to build a legacy of excellence as founder and head coach of the MVP Track Club.

“Arguably the most successful sprint coach in the history of track and field, Stephen gifted the world an admirable life of unparalleled technical expertise and competencies crowned in brilliant successes,” the statement said.

Despite his laudable successes and deserving accolades, the Trust said Francis remained grounded and humble.

“He was forthright and honest, and never played to the gallery. He was impatient of mediocrity and proved his words through performance, and that in and of itself is an example to leaders at every level,” the statement said.

According to the Trust, Francis’ most enduring contribution was not simply the championships won under his guidance, but the confidence he inspired in Jamaicans by proving that athletic greatness could be cultivated at home.

“It is safely rooted in his proving to his countrymen, and especially to the youth of our country, that great things can be ‘made in Jamaica’.

“Stephen shattered that myth, adding to the growing sense of self and of confidence which Jamaica must harness if it is to make its way in an increasingly competitive world, unforgiving of failure. That truly is his legacy and contribution. It transcends medals and championships; it goes to the essence of the Jamaica and Jamaican we must sculpt from now, for the future,” it said.

Wolmer’s Trust also extended condolences to Francis’ brother, Paul, the entire Francis family, the MVP Track Club family, and people around the world who love track and field and embraced Stephen as part of that love.