Clarke reappears in schoolboy football at Tarrant High

Three-time Manning Cup-winning coach, Alrick Clarke, makes a return to schoolboy football after being away for six years.

Clarke, who led Norman Manley to titles in 1996, 2000 and 2003, migrated to the United States in 2016. He has returned to the island after getting homesick, and was approached to assist with the development of Tarrant High's football programme.

Clarke has no expectations for this season. However, he aims to challenge for the title shortly.

"I have been out since 2016. I went abroad for a while but now I am back in the country and I was asked to assist Tarrant to develop their programme. So I am with Tarrant.

"Tarrant is a developing team. The programme is set for at least three years. There is talent but they haven't been playing in the competition for the last three years, so it is going to be a challenge.

"So I wouldn't say this season but, hopefully in the next few seasons, they will see the best of Tarrant, but (this season) we are going to do what we have to do and get them to represent Tarrant to the best of their ability," he said.

Clarke, who also had a brief stint with Calabar before returning to Norman Manley and then migrating to the USA, has been thoroughly impressed with the improvements to the schoolboy football product.

He admits it is taking some time to make the readjustments, however, he says he is getting there.

"It is challenging right now, being away such a long time from the sport, but I have a few people working with me and they are giving me the motivation I need to propel to the top once more," Clarke said.

"Every coach wants to win and that's what I am there for. Once we put in the work, it is possible.

"I just want to get the boys playing some good football. I am not going to put any pressure on them. I just want them to represent the school and show the type of attitude and character that will move them forward," he said.

"It (schoolboy football) is a good look. I am just hoping the standard is where I left it. It is a good programme for schools. It helps develop young minds and I look forward to helping in that capacity," he continued.