Kingston, Jamaica – Over the years a lot of emphasis has been placed on balancing academics and sports. Many student athletes have done so successfully, but none more than Joel Brown – the St George’s College Manning Cup captain who also happens to be head boy.

It’s a dual leadership role of tremendous proportions rarely seen in Jamaica and Brown is relishing it.

“The decision-making and responsibilities, having both roles is rather interesting and fun at the same. It puts your critical thinking and communication skills to the test,” Brown explained.

“This challenges me to be the best version of myself and to also be that role model for my teammates and school mates to look up to especially because I love making an impact,” he shared.

The talented player has 10 CSEC subjects in Additional Mathematics, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Social Studies, Information Technology, French, English Literature and English language.

He also has five Cape subjects, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Communication Studies and French.

“The balancing of academics and sports is not difficult if you are dedicated to the tasks at hand, this is where priorities come into play,” said Brown.

“I set schedules so that I don’t fall behind; (I) give 100 per cent in school and 100 per cent on the field”.

According to Public Relations and Communications Manager at Digicel, Elon Parkinson, Joel is an outstanding example to his peers and fellow student-athletes.

“He demonstrates that with discipline and dedication, balance is possible when it comes to academics and extracurricular activities. We wish him all the best, and encourage him to continue being an exceptional leader, team player and student by always performing at his best on and off the field,” said Parkinson.

Brown, who wants to become a neurosurgeon or a biochemical engineer and who also wants to excel in professional football overseas, has so far led St George’s College to the second round of the Manning Cup.

The ‘Light Blues’ are second in Zone A with 18 points, three behind Kingston College and seven ahead of Waterford High on 11 points with three sets of games remaining.

Brown believes his team can go far in the Manning Cup.

“The team is very determined and well together. The group consists of quality teams but in God’s will and the team’s determination, we will come out of the group and have a good chance of winning the competition,” he said.

So far, St George’s College have won six of their seven games scoring an impressive 30 goals while conceding seven times. Only Mona High (45), Jamaica College (44) and Kingston College (37) have scored more goals.

“The countless hours the team puts in, the drive in us to be successful, will set us apart from the rest and I’m very much confident and beside my team in this year’s journey,” said Brown.