Sportscast Jersey

Kindly sponsored by SportsHub.

 

 

As a white person living in Jersey I am not about to sit here and lecture people, pretending to be an expert about racism. As a white person living in Jersey I am going to hand over the virtual microphone to those who have experienced racism, right here on our small island, first hand.

 

 
I have spoken with two black citizens and they have all given me an insight into the racial discrimination that is (somehow) still alive and kicking in 2020 here in Jersey.

 

 
They have been open, honest and have emotionally told me their stories and opinions, as well as giving people, just like me and you, advice on how they can help change the mindset of so many who see people as lesser, just because of the colour of their skin.

 

 
I asked them questions, they answered. I hope that through their answers, people will open their eyes about just how dehumanising such acts are, and it will encourage conversations in households, friendship groups and even zoom calls, making racism less of a taboo.

 

 
Sit down, read and observe. It really is a emotion grabbing read. This is where my voice will be muted, and the important voices of this piece take centre stage.

 

 

 

Today we hear from Dami Williams. Here is what he had to say:

 

How difficult was it to see the George Floyd murder, if you did see the video online?

 

 

 

As terrible as it will sound. I was just numb watching it. I’ve seen the same thing happen in so many countless videos of police brutality against black people. The Ahmaud Arbery murder video was really the one that broke me. That murder happened on 23rd of February and no one was even arrested until May.

 

 

How difficult is it to see systematic racism still occurring, not just in America but all over the world?

 

 
Extremely difficult, it makes me sad, angry and upset all at the same time. What make it even worse is that there are people, usually white, who will proclaim it doesn’t even exist when they will never have had to experience it.

 

 

 

How does it make you feel, as a black human being, to see that hate and inequality for black citizens is still clear to see in 2020?

 

 
It makes me feel physically sick. I was simply born with black skin and the fact that some people judge me because of that and criticise me when I don’t live up to their stereotypical expectations, or outright hate me because of the colour of my skin is baffling.

 

 

People aren’t born racists, therefore do you hope that their views can change?

 

 
There definitely needs to be more education around the subject of racism, but there are people who are and always will be racist because the system allows them to be with no consequences, until very recently.

 

 

Do you think the educational system needs to change to teach young people about systematic racism, so they can learn what is right and wrong from a young age?

 

 
Yes, education is the most powerful tool we have. When people are aware of injustices that occur/atrocities that have occurred, they will often be outraged. A prime example of this is how much everyone hates Nazi’s, because the history of WWII and the actions of the Nazi’s are so widely taught throughout Europe.

 

 

 

As an individual living in Jersey, have you experienced any racism or uncomfortable situations due to any comments made towards you?

 

 

 
All of the time ever since I moved here. I am constantly judged by the colour of my skin for what I say/don’t say, how I say it – literally everything. I can’t even tell you the amount of times I have been told that I don’t ‘act black’ or ‘speak black’ and that I am ‘black on the outside but white on the inside’. These people just see the colour of my skin as a novelty. Everyone needs to realise these statements implying that the colour of my skin defines who I am/how I fundamentally act are racist stereotypes that are a significant part of problem.

 

 

 

Do you think there is racial inequality in Jersey?

 

 
Yes, I have always been treated differently because of the colour of my skin. Jersey should not be separated from the rest of the UK when it comes to racial inequality as there is the same lack of education in terms of black history. If there were more black people on the island, racial inequality would be much clearer to see.

 

 

How can Jersey move to support the movement, from those in power to the general public of Jersey – to make talking about the topic of racism less of a taboo?

 

 
Education. We are taught about the Romans, Ancient Egypt etc. in school but nothing about the UK’s colonialist past. For example, Bristol and Newcastle were slave ports, but I can guarantee the majority of the population of these places will have had no idea of that part of their surrounding’s history until very recently.

 

 

 

How pleasing it to see the support and togetherness of people of people on social media, and through protests over the past few weeks?

 

 
It is pleasing, simply because the scale of the protests/outrage has led to the arrest of the officers responsible for George Floyd’s death; this would never have happened without the video evidence and the protesting.

 

 

 

What can non-black citizens do to properly support the movement?

 

 
Signing petitions, share videos showing police brutality/police instigating violence at protests and educating themselves and their friends about white privilege.

 

 

Could this be the start of the shift we have been waiting for, for many years?

 

 
We are a long way from equality, but it is a small step in the right direction.

 

 

 

In your own words, can you sum up the current situation and what/how you want things to change?

 

 
To start, I want a minimum standard of behaviour to be enforced within the police. Many officers in America and the UK have had many cases of excessive force on file and are still allowed to stay in their roles. In no other role would this be even remotely acceptable, e.g. one malpractice suit and a doctor will lose their medical licence. This is this first of many thing that needs to change, as these are the people meant to protect us.

 

 

This is a very powerful interview, and one you should share to your friends and family.

 

 

 

A big thanks to Dami for his time, and his honesty over his own experiences and how he wants things to change.

 

 

 

Below is a link to ways of how YOU can help. Please click on it and see. Also, please share this interview so more people can read it, and learn why the protests are happening, and that it is happening right here, in Jersey

 

 

 

https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/

Kindly sponsored by SportsHub.

 

As a white person living in Jersey I am not about to sit here and lecture people, pretending to be an expert about racism. As a white person living in Jersey I am going to hand over the virtual microphone to those who have experienced racism, right here on our small island, first hand.

I have spoken with three black citizens and they have all given me an insight into the racial discrimination that is (somehow) still alive and kicking in 2020 here in Jersey.

They have been open, honest and have emotionally told me their stories and opinions, as well as giving people, just like me and you, advice on how they can help change the mindset of so many who see people as lesser, just because of the colour of their skin.

I asked them questions, they answered. I hope that through their answers, people will open their eyes about just how dehumanising such acts are, and it will encourage conversations in households, friendship groups and even zoom calls, making racism less of a taboo.

Sit down, read and observe. It really is a emotion grabbing read. This is where my voice will be muted, and the important voices of this piece take centre stage.

 

Up first you will hear stories and opinions through Jersey U18 footballer Ryan Tshepiso Marcinko. Here is what he said:

 

How does it feel as a black human being, to see that hate and other inequality is still, in 2020, clear to see for black citizens?

 

 
It’s a difficult one. Times are changing and people are being aware of what is happening but still it’s not enough. There are still errors in the world and these errors need to be fixed. But as my mum says not everybody is racist.

 

 

 

Does it hurt even more knowing people aren’t born racists, they are taught it, or does it give you hope that they can be taught to love and change just the same?

 
You are right, people aren’t born racist. It is a generational thing. Children pick it up from their parents and influence other children and that’s how problems come around. However, teaching children when they are young is important, that way they know what is right and wrong, and understand that people are the same.

 

Do you think that the educational system needs to change to teach people more about systemic racism from a young age – including stereotypes which some may say as a joke, but cause significant offence?

 
It depends what school you went to. I went to a multicultural primary school in Liverpool and we used to learn about black history month so all the pupils could be taught to understand what is right and what was wrong. However, after speaking to people who went to other schools, some schools don’t do enough, and some don’t do anything at all. I believe that worldwide it should be addressed as an important subject like Maths, English and Science, so children of the future can have a voice.

 

 
As an individual living in Jersey, have you experienced any racism or uncomfortable situations due to any comments made towards you?

 

 
Yes, in many cases I have received racist comments and been left in uncomfortable situations. These problems came from a range of pupils within school however they have been addressed by the school and those students did get dealt with. Not only me but my mother has also experienced racism in Jersey.

 

Do you think there is racial inequality in Jersey?

 
From my experience and asking my mother we haven’t received racial inequality. However I cannot be the one to judge as other people may experience other things that I haven’t.

 
How can Jersey move to support the movement, from those in power to the general people of Jersey – to make talking racism less of a taboo?

 
For those affected they should speak out to spread awareness. Even with help from family, friends or peers they can help to make it easier for them. The main thing to do is educate the younger generation. The next generation are the ones who are going to make the next set of changes so it’s better to guide them in the right direction.

 

Do you think this could be the shift that we have been waiting for, for many years now? Could it lead to equality?

 
Like I said before it’s a generational thing. In two to three generations from now things could be completely different. Each generation learns something from the last. The Dr. Martin Luther King generation stood up to inequality. They moved forward. Nelson Mandela became the first black president of South Africa. Apartheid collapsed. They moved forward. Barack Obama moved into power. Another sign to say that we can move forward. We just have to teach our next generation about equality and they can teach the one after. Anything can happen as long people change first. There will always be racism and inequality but the goal is to limit it to near to nothing.

 

 

 

A massive thank-you to Ryan for speaking so openly about such personal events, and I hope it encourages people to talk about racism, and to take action to encourage change.

 

 

 

 

Below is a link to ways of how YOU can help. Please click on it and see. Also, please share this interview so more people can read it, and learn why the protests are happening, and that it is happening right here, in Jersey.

 

https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/?fbclid=IwAR3Ac48iVPev9JKQigrKxq9wthriyzAEVQ2OK_EVhjDl1aALcZgI3yZKsZg

Kindly Sponsored By Farmers Cricket Club

 

Sports fans have been limited to the bare minimum of action over the last three or so months, but as Jersey move into Level 2 of the Safe Exit Framework some sports are slowly coming back into the frame.

One which many people will be excited about is Cricket, with Farmers Cricket Club hosting an in house T20 match at their ground on Sunday, having to postpone the match from Saturday due the past weeks rainfall, which is timely seeing it seemingly hasn’t rained at all in the last three months.

I caught up with Jim Perchard about the chance to watch cricket again, how hard it was to ensure that the game goes ahead and what to expect from Farmers in the upcoming, slightly different season.

 

Perchard started by stating ‘We have all missed cricket at the Farmers. We have our own ground and clubhouse. We have had young players training all Winter, and they are exciting young prospects so we had been desperately disappointed not to see these young players out in the middle. Jersey had two big tournaments this Summer and a few of our players play for the island so again we were disappointed they couldn’t go and represent Jersey.’

Guernsey got their first taste of sport on the 30th May, and look to have full competitive T20 matches tomorrow with no restrictions in place. Perchard stated ‘I was very pleased for Guernsey, they seem to have had their Covid-19 policy right and I understand that they are hoping to play two games of T20 Cricket without any restrictions. Good luck to them and well done Guernsey.’

Guernsey’s Tom Veillard, who played in the game in Guernsey at the end of May stated that ‘The game itself wasn’t too different. Obviously not being able to high-five after a wicket was strange, and no shaking hands at the end of the game. But apart from that it was similar. Seeing so many people watching at the game itself was great. I think it bought a lot of delight to the fans, but also us as players, seeing people supporting and seeing familiar faces we are so used to seeing in the summer months.’

 

Perchard stated that the opportunity to play in family groups helped the progression of starting cricket again, sooner rather than later. ‘The chance to play with family and groups of two, to have centre wicket practices was there right from the time Jersey went into level three. The boys were doing that whilst following social distancing rules and using strict hygiene routines. Then, when we moved to level 2 it was obvious we could go into proper cricket.’

Farmers will stage their in-house friendly on Sunday. ‘We are delighted to be back’ Perchard explained. ‘It is now, due to the incredible amount of rain we have had, been postponed from Saturday and moved to a 2pm start on Sunday. It is two evenly matched teams – unders and overs teams so we have fine young talent playing against a more experienced side. Everybody was available so we are all really excited for it and hoping that the rain stays away.’

Obviously, just like everything else in Jersey at present, social distancing guidelines will be followed. Perchard added ‘I think it will be fine. We are going to spend an hour with the players before the game making sure they all understand the importance of social distancing and why it needs to be adhered to, but I think everyone understands.’

Veillard explained that the social distancing measures didn’t change things for when he played in Guernsey’s first game back. ‘We had been told by Latts (Mark Latter, CEO of GCB) about the rules we had to follow, but I don’t think they were too drastic and all rules we’ve had to follow in the past twelve weeks or so. When you’re out there, you don’t really think about it, you’re just happy to be out there playing.’

Perchard added that hygiene measures will be in place too. ‘We will be sanitising the ball between overs and the players, every 10 overs will sanitise their hands. There will be no club house, no changing room so everybody will come changed. It won’t be quite the same, but we will be fine.’

When asked whether the players were edging to go, Perchard responded ‘They really are. I have never seen such availability. Every player in our first and second team squads were available for this game, so there has even been some selection issues.’

 

Jersey Cricket yesterday announced that they have plans for the return of cricket educational-trial games which will take place on 20th June 2020 for the Jersey Post Weekend League teams and the 23rd June 2020 for the Jersey Post Evening League teams. These will be used to educate players and clubs about the new, strict guidelines which are in place. Perchard commented ‘I will be delighted. I don’t think it will be a full season because we have missed five weeks but we will get a round of T20 in and one day games, and that will be brilliant. The players will be relieved about that too. There is a lot of Junior Cricket planned as well so I am excited for that.’

It is Farmers Cricket Ground’s 15th year this year, so I asked Perchard how happy he is to know there will be cricket played on the field in 2020. We have played 16 consecutive Summer’s now and it was unimaginable that we wouldn’t have played in 2020. I am delighted that we will and hopefully we can beat this virus and play proper cricket towards the end of the summer without social distancing and perhaps even the inter-insular, which we were due to host so we are really hoping we still can, even if it is towards the end of August/September.’

 

When asked who he is most looking forward to watching, Perchard answered ‘As I mentioned, we have got a lot of young talent now. A lot of Junior boys coming through. They are under-14s and under-15s, they have all shot up this Winter and I cant believe how much they have grown. Some fabulous talent. What I do find is young players hit the ball hard from the day that they learn to hold a cricket bat. They have learnt to use their wrists as well as their technique. I am really excited to see these young players and I know some of them will go onto represent Jersey one day.’

Sportscast Jersey are absolutely delighted that sport is back on the island after a long wait. Head down to Farmers for a 2pm start on Sunday, to watch some brilliantly talented upcoming cricket stars show off their talent in the first bit of sporting action for three months.

A big thanks to Jim for his time, and we look forward to working more with different Cricket Clubs on the island over the Summer – just get in touch!

 

Sporting Academics’ Jamie Savory has been nominated for Jersey Combination Premiership’s Player of The Season award along with champions Jersey Wanderers’ Logan McGhee and St Ouen’s Jake Prince, showing just how good a season the 32 year old has had.

 

Savory scored a very impressive 15 goals in just 11 matches this season, coming joint second on the overall goal scoring leader-board, being level with McGhee and only being behind Prince, having played nine and seven less games than the pair respectively.

 

Sportscast Jersey caught up with the attacker, talking about different matters such as his footballing idols growing up, playing for Jersey’s version of the famous Wimbledon crazy gang in Accies and how his daughter has pushed him to take football more seriously than ever.

 

How has lockdown been for you?

Lockdown has been okay as it can be. It hasn’t been good not seeing my family and friends, but I’ve been at work through nearly all of it. One thing it has been good for is getting out on the bike and doing some running which you wouldn’t catch me doing any other time!

 

Have you always loved football?

For sure. I have always supported Tottenham Hotspurs since I can remember as my dad did. My footballing idols growing up were Jurgen Klinsmann (best celebration I had seen) and the real, original Ronaldo.

 

 

When did you first start to play? Did you ever play any other sport?

I’ve always played football from very young age. From the days playing on the estate , to the first time we could play in primary school. I love it. I did play other sports such as Karate where I was European Champion up at Fort Regent. I just did the Shawn Micheals sweet chin music kick through the whole tournament and won it!

 

 

Have you always played for Accies, or did you play for other clubs through your career?

I started off at rozel from the U14s until the u18s. I then signed for the mighty Accies MTA (Mon The Accies). I have also played for Jersey Wanderers twice and also Jersey Scottish. I am obviously now back at my home, the mighty Accies MTA.

 

 

How much do you enjoy playing for Accies – how tight is the group?

What can you say about the mighty Accies. We are a bunch of mad men and I wouldn’t change it for the world. All of the lads are good mates/brothers who have known each other for years. The crack we have as a team can’t be beaten. Nothing but laughs, and win or lose we’re going for a pint after the match.

 

How was last season?

The season was a good one for us. We were up there pushing for a higher finish in the league. We have goals in us and brilliant players but we just let ourselves down sometimes, be that through bad attitude or fitness. We are here for a laugh and a game of football, but we just need to know when to control ourselves.

 

 

You have scored 15 goals in 11 games in a brilliant personal season – how proud of this are you?

My biggest fan is my daughter (and a couple of the Accie ultras) so it’s been a nice achievement. She has enjoyed coming to the games and luckily I’ve been scoring, probably because she makes me take it more serious.

 

You have also been nominated for the player of the season award, how pleasing is that?

I’ve had a couple votes before and never won it so you never know it might be my year. My fitness isn’t what it used to be so it’s been a great kick to get fitter again, and to see what a 100% Savo has to offer the Premiership.

 

 

You have played considerably less games than the other two nominees, and others who may have been in the running – does that make it even more special?

Not really special, but it does make me think that if I didn’t get that red card there could of been plenty more goals on that end of season goal total.

 

 

Are you staying at Accies next season to try push on to finish higher up in the table?

Yeah I am staying at the mighty accies MTA. El Pizze (Pedro) is in charge now and we’re looking to finish first this year, no messing about. We have got a big name player lined up already, so we just need a couple center backs if anyone reading this knows any!?

 

 

What are your goals for the future – eyes on a JFA/Jersey Bulls/Parishes of Jersey call up?

I don’t have any real goals. I just want to get fitter and keep having a crack with the boys. Hopefully the goals will still be flowing too, we will see. Parishes of Jersey manager James Scott has my number in terms of the call up – I wouldn’t mind one more go at a tournament.

 

 

A big thanks to Jamie for his time, and everyone at Sportscast Jersey would like to wish him all the best of luck as a nominee for the Player Of The Season awards and all at Accies the best for next season, whenever that does come around!

 

As always, please do follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more.

Interview kindly sponsored by Parishes of Jersey Football Club.

 

St Ouen’s star Jake Prince has been a standout player in Jersey’s Jacksons Premiership this season, finishing as the winner of the JEP Golden Boot with 21 goals.

 

Having made the short move from St Peter to St Ouen at the start of the season, Prince has shown his doubters just what he is made of and ended the campaign by deservedly receiving a nomination for the Jacksons Premiership Player of the Season Award, along with Jersey Wanderers’ Logan McGhee and Sporting Academics’ Jamie Savoy.

 

Sportscast Jersey caught up with the young striker, reflecting upon his fine season as well as talking about his respect for Parishes of Jersey manager James Scott and the goal-scorers big aspirations to be called up to the Jersey Bulls squad.

 

 

How has lockdown been for you?

On a personal level, there were definitely tough periods during lockdown, from not seeing my family or friends to not being able to play football, but all-in-all I feel like I’ve made the best of a bad situation. I’ve been working out a lot in my garage and I’m feeling fitter than ever. I am also still working from home so the days have been flying by.

 

Have you always been into your football? Who did you play for when you were younger?

I’ve always played and enjoyed football. From the age of 5 my mum and dad would take me up to Grainville every Sunday to play with Micky, who used to run football matches for kids. Micky played a big part in my early football days and he was the reason I carried on playing from a young age. The first club I played for was St Paul’s but I moved to St Clement’s shortly after.

 

 

Have you always been a striker?

My preferred position is definitely as a number 9. Ever since I was young I’ve always enjoyed playing there because I love scoring goals and winning games for the team. I’ve always been an attack minded player and I couldn’t imagine playing anywhere else. I have had managers who would play me on the left or right side of midfield, but my favorite position is definitely in the middle of the front three.

 

 

When you first moved to St Ouen, what attracted you to the club?

There were a lot of factors that influenced my decision to move to the club. Firstly, I felt like my time with St. Peter’s was over as I wasn’t enjoying my football anymore. I was being played out of position a lot in my last season with the club and there was always uncertainty around whether I would start or not. This was a big reason for me moving as I knew if I moved to St Ouen I would get more game time and enjoy my football again, which I definitely have done. Another reason for joining was that St Ouen have always been unfortunate when it comes to winning trophies/contending for the title, so I was hoping I could help change that. I also knew a few of the managers and players at the club, and they couldn’t speak more highly of how the club is managed. All the coaches are brilliant, the players work hard and the training sessions are really enjoyable, so I’m very happy I moved.

 

 

Were you welcomed straight away – what are the manager and your team-mates like?

Yes absolutely, from the first meeting I had with the coaches I felt very welcomed. I have built a lot of respect for the managers because everything they told me in that meeting they’ve stuck to completely and they’ve really brought the best out of me. I’ve had good coaches in the past but there are five managers at St Ouen and I feel like I can learn something new from all of them. The coaches’ spirit is unbelievable as well. You can see how much they want to win and it just pushes me to work harder. The same goes for the players of the club, they are a really good bunch of lads and they all work so hard for one another. I was lucky in that I knew a few of the players before joining, some I had played with and some I played against but we all got on straight away and they were brilliant from the day I joined so I couldn’t thank them enough.

 

 

How good was this season for the club?

I thought we had an excellent season. I think it’s been a massive statement for the club as we have really shown that we are there to win trophies and contend for the league. We finished second last season and that’s the highest the club has finished in a really long time, having only lost two games and with a final to play I’d say it’s been a great season. It’s definitely given the boys a massive boost and we are really hopeful we can take that into next season and do even better.

 

 

How gutting was it that the season was finished the way it was, through Points Per Game, especially when the title race was still open?

Obviously it was a disappointing end to the season, not only for St Ouen but for all of the clubs. It’s a tough one to take for us because it’s the first time in almost 60 years where the club was potentially able to win the league but couldn’t because of how it ended. I also think it’s frustrating for the likes of Wanderers. They have had a great season and are worthy champions but I’m sure if you asked each of the players and coaches they would all have liked to finish the season properly after all the effort that has been put into this season.

 

On a personal note, how pleasing was it to finish top scorer?

Finishing top goal scorer is a massive thing for me and something that I have always wanted to achieve. In the 2017-18 season I was one goal off and unfortunately didn’t score in my last 5 games, so to finish this season with the most goals is a big achievement for me. I’ve been working really hard for a while now so I’m glad it’s paying off. I couldn’t have done it alone though, the team have been great this season and we’ve all worked really well together. The coaches have also helped me a lot, they’ve believed in me from the beginning, gave me time on the pitch to score the goals and will go through the trenches for me so I’ll always be thankful for that. Hopefully we can take this into next season and I’ll try to win it again.

 

 

And to be nominated for the Jacksons Premiership Player of The Season, how proud are you?

I’m so happy to be nominated for player of the season, it means so much to me. I’ve been working harder than ever so to receive a nomination, it just shows that hard work does pay off. I’ve really enjoyed my football this season and I’m definitely looking forward for everything to come. I know there’s a lot more to come from me and I feel like I’ve got a point to prove, so I’m going to keep pushing and hopefully myself and the team can win more trophies next season. Well done to Logan and Jamie for being selected as well, they’ve had a great season and I wish them the best of luck.

 

 

You were named in the Parishes of Jersey squad for the CONIFA World Cup in North Macedonia. How disappointing was it when that was postponed?

Yes absolutely, it’s such a shame for not only the players but everyone who was involved in the whole planning process. It was obviously such a big thing for Jersey football and one that I was really looking forward too. To be 1 of 16 teams who were selected in a World Cup tournament was a massive deal for Jersey football so it’s a shame that we couldn’t go over there. I’ve got to say a special mention to the likes of James Scott for all of his help in getting Jersey involved in this tournament. He’s a great ambassador for Jersey football and it’s a shame that more people aren’t like him on this island. Hopefully the tournament is rescheduled soon enough and we can go over there and show other teams what we can do.

 

 

Is it pleasing to be in the Parishes of Jersey squad, getting the opportunity to play with the best players on the island?

Being selected for the Parishes of Jersey team was a big thing for me. I’ve had a tough season, not being picked for the Bulls and being in and out of the Jersey squad so it meant a lot to me. I was obviously gutted when the tournament was postponed but there’s nothing anyone can do about it unfortunately. I’m definitely looking forward to playing with the team and hopefully everything will be back to normal soon.

 

 

Is getting picked for Jersey Bulls FC a big goal of yours?

From the day I found out about the Jersey Bulls I’ve always wanted to be a part of the squad but unfortunately I am yet to receive a message. To be truthful, I was really gutted when I found out I wasn’t selected. To know that over 40 players were picked for the squad and I wasn’t one of them really hurt. I know the manager has his favourites, but having played under him for two seasons I would have thought I would have received some sort of recognition but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. In a way, it’s a blessing in disguise because it has pushed me to work harder than I ever have before and I’m really enjoying my football at the moment. I guess we will have to see what happens in the future, but getting into the Bulls squad is a big aspiration of mine.

 

 

Prince has shown his capabilities over the past season, and throughout this interview he has come across as a hard working, down to earth player who has his feet firmly on the ground, as well as his eyes on his personal target of one day putting on the Jersey Bulls shirt and for many people it would be hard to see why he couldn’t in the near future.

 

A big thanks to Jake for his time, and to Adrian Topley for the images.

 

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano in Tanzania with it’s summit of 5,895 metres or 19,341 feet above sea level. So the thought of climbing it is something only the most daring and determined would do.

 

Louise and Tom Carrington are doing just that. The mum and son duo have started to train towards what will be a long, but memorable climb in January.

 

I caught up with Tom about why they are taking on the challenge, how training is going and how people can donate.

 

I started off by asking how he has found lockdown to date, Tom replied saying ‘It hasn’t been so bad to be honest. I have been keeping myself fit, and I have been back in the office for three weeks now so things are back to normal for me in most aspects. My first boxing fight for Jersey Leonis had to be cancelled due to Covid-19 and it was only 2 weeks away from fight night before lockdown happened so I cant wait to get back boxing and ready for the next fight.’
On the idea to climb Kilamanjaro, Tom added ‘I have been trying to convince my mum for years to do this with me and since my holiday to Thailand was cancelled, I have put a lot of money from that trip towards the climb. The main reason for doing it is in memory of my grandma who passed away to lung cancer. It was a really rough time for the whole family as we were very close so we want to raise money for the charity, Jersey Hospice, who did the most for her and provided unbelievable care. They looked after my nan so well. They provided the highest quality of care and I appreciate everything they did for her. My nan – she was like a mother to me. I’m sure everyone thinks of their nan the same. Special women. ‘

 

 

The climb itself isn’t for the faint-hearted and for many it is the biggest challenge that they dare to do, so I asked Tom whether he had done anything like this before in his life. He replied,  ‘Never! This year has been a big year for me in terms of fitness. I was two weeks away from my first fight at Leonis, which has been a goal of mine for two years now so I just want to keep setting challenges for myself.’
As part of the training for the climb, Tom has signed up for the Jersey Marathon, which, in itself, is a big achievement to do. I asked him whether he was looking forward to this part of his training, ‘I mean I am excited to finish the marathon for sure, but the training is going to be very hard! I really enjoy running now though. Before 2020 I hated running, but it is a big part of training for boxing and once you get yourself going it is really good for clearing the head. Nothing beats it.’
Fundraising for the Carrington’s climb is well underway, and I asked Tom how it has gone so far, and what their targets are. ‘Me and my mum set a target for £1,000 and we are already on £1,345 which is amazing. We are so thankful for the donations.’

 

Finally, I asked what he was most looking forward to about the climb – reaching the top, or maybe even reaching the bottom again and having a beer! Tom answered ‘Definitely reaching the top. Being above the clouds will be a crazy experience. But, I cant lie, a week in Zanzibar after the climb will top it off.’

 

 

I would like to wish Louise and Tom the best of luck in their mammoth challenge, and also with the Jersey Marathon for Tom. If you could spare any money, the link can be found on the link to the interview, as well as Louise’s and Tom’s Facebook pages – all donations in aid of the Jersey Hospice.

Tomorrow, whilst most of us will be going through another day in lockdown, Laurie Corbel will be taking on a mammoth challenge, running Victoria College’s Knight Shield Course a very impressive 75 times.

 

It is all in aid of two local charities in Jersey Hospice Care and Age Concern Jersey, and is being completed as part of a large fundraising scheme by Victoria College.

 

I caught up with Laurie and asked him why he as doing this challenge, how long he thinks it will take him and how people can donate.

 

 

 

Firstly, how has lockdown been for you?

 

 

I am keeping well thank you in lockdown. It is obviously a very bizarre time and can be testing, have everyone tripping over each other in the house, but it has actually been a nice excuse for the whole family to be back in Jersey.

 

 

 

How gutted were you when the initial date for this challenge was cancelled?

 

 

I was absolutely devastated when I found out that I wouldn’t be able complete the challenge on Friday 13th of May because of the lockdown restrictions. It was especially devastating because after realising the 6 hour time limit and being told I would not be able to break that restriction on site I was presented with the opportunity to run through the night in order to use my 6 hours from 2 days in one go. This meant I was still expecting for the run to happen, just not until 6pm and hopefully to be finished by 6am the following morning. Unfortunately, due to health and safety reasons I was later told (on the day of the run) that running through the night would be too dangerous. As much as that did pain me at the time I understand it was not an easy decision for the school to make. I would like to make a special mention to Gareth Hughes the new deputy head who has been behind the challenge since the start and tried to work every solution with me – we got there eventually! None the less these things do happen and I am just glad a date has finally been sorted. It is just horrible waiting and checking the government guidelines everyday until the decision was made to make time spent outdoors unlimited.

 

 

 

How did the idea first come about?

 

 

The idea for the challenge came about pretty randomly. I had seen how many awesome things other people in the community were doing, ranging from Mr. Smith (physics teacher) learning 75 digits of Pi to cycle routes on the island in the shape of the number 75. I guess I wanted to play my part and get involved in some way – I started off just reeling off pretty random ideas to my family until eventually the 75 times Knight Shield came about and when everyone said that was ridiculous, I knew it was probably the one. The Knight Shield itself was also a big part of my time at Vic. I ran it 6 out the 7 years  (although never very fast), and my step brother Ollie Terry was and might still be (I’m not sure) the record holder for the fastest time. It just seemed to fit.

 

 

 

For those who aren’t familiar, how tough is the course?

 

 

In terms of the course, I won’t lie it is fairly brutal. I am certain anyone who has run it will agree with me on that. The course starts with a steep downhill (pretty rough on the knees) down onto a flat section and at the end of which you face a gruesome 41 steep granite steps to climb. You then run back along a slightly flat path to land yourself at the bottom of the ‘prefects path’ which is the hill running parallel to the college lawn and is an absolute killer. All in all, one lap is about 40 meters of elevation and about 1.1km in length. Meaning when I hopefully hit 75 laps I will have racked up a nice 82km(ish) and 3000 meters of elevation.

 

 

 

Have you trained much for this challenge?

 

 

In terms of training I can’t admit to having done much/any for this actual event. I only thought up the challenge about 5 or 6 days before the initial date! Obviously I have had a few weeks since and have been running when I can but I haven’t run further than 20km in the last 6 to 8 months.

 

 

 

Is this going to be the hardest thing you have ever done, or have you done big challenges before?

 

 

I have done a few challenges to date but certainly nothing compared to this. I ran the Jersey Marathon in October which is the furtherest I have run to date and that was seriously tough. My dad and I take part in the round island walk every year and should have been doing our 9th one this year but unfortunately it has been cancelled officially (although I think we will do it anyway and keep up the streak haha). I am pretty sure this will without a doubt be the hardest thing I have ever done but hopefully not ever will do – who knows what bizarre challenges lay ahead! I certainly believe that with enough will and desire to achieve something, absolutely anyone can do things they never in a million years thought they could do. Obviously I will find out for sure on Wednesday just how far mental strength can get you but I am pretty certain if I do cross the line after 75 laps I will have my mind to thank and not my legs.

 

 

It is all for charity of course – what do these Charities mean to you?

 

 

The two charities are Jersey Hospice Care and Age Concern Jersey. The money being raised is part of a large fundraising scheme by Victoria College who have to date raised over £9000 so far as a community. I am a massive admirer of both organisations, they play such a genuinely crucial role on our island. It can be easy sometimes to forget about our ill and older community but charities like these don’t forget and work incredibly hard (many for nothing) to support the people on this island. I am also a bit of a sucker for a charity shop and both these organisations provide some bargains.

 

 

 

How much have you raised so far, and how can people donate?

 

 

Like I said the collective community has raised over £9000 so far and it would be brilliant if we could get the total as near if not to break the big £10,000 mark. I would like to say an unbelievable thank you to everyone who has already donated and anyone who is going to donate. They truly are fantastic causes. I would also like to add that because the pot is a collective one, by donating towards my challenge you will also be giving hundreds of other challenges the satisfaction that they have helped two brilliant organisations. The sponsorship page link is: https://my.race-nation.co.uk/sponsorship/entry/315245.

 

 

 

Finally how long do you think it will take you to do the whole thing? Are you going to finish it no matter what?

 

It is honestly really hard to know exactly how long the run is going to take because no one has ever done this before and I don’t really know how my body is going to hold up after 50, 60, 70 or some times even up and down the hills/stairs! My aim, if all things go to plan, is to be done around the 10 hour mark and be finished by about 6pm to get home in time for tea! I am going to do absolutely everything in my power to get round the course 75 times even if it feels at the time like it might actually kill me!

 

I would like to wish Laurie good luck with his challenge tomorrow, it sounds like it will be a tough but rewarding day for him.

 

If you would like to donate, the link is below!

 

 

With debate increasing by the day on whether the English Premier League and English Football League should return or not, people are forgetting what has happened to Non-League campaigns up and down the country, lower down the footballing pyramid.

 

 
For those who don’t know, they have been disregarded, thrown away, cancelled and VOIDED.

 

 
Whether this is the right or wrong decision has been debated in almost every town in England, albeit over social media. Why was it an easy decision for the FA to void every league under the National League, yet they are hanging on to the professional seasons?

 

 
Easy answer: Money.

 

 
Is this right? Of course not.

 

 

 

 

Take Jersey Bulls FC or Vauxhall Motors FC as the obvious examples. They have both secured promotion and were games away from securing title wins. The Channel Islanders had won ALL 27 game of their debut season, a new Combined Counties Record, well it was until the FA decided that all of the games were all in vain.

 

 
So many others have missed out too; Leicester Road were seemingly cruising to promotion, being 25 points inside the Midland 1 promotion places before the call. Stockton Town gained a wealthy position too, being 23 points inside the promotion places in the Northern 1 league. Others who seemed destined to be promoted included Risborough Rangers, Littlehampton Town, Lower Breck and Bugbrooke St Michaels, who were all at least 20 points clear at the top of their respective leagues. Many other sides were above 10 points clear, which, at this stage of the season would more than likely lead to promotion.

 

 

 

 

I spoke with well-respected Non-League reporter Ollie Bayliss about the subject and he told me ‘The null & void decision is very hard on clubs like Jersey Bulls and Vauxhall Motors who’d already secured promotion. If those clubs had managed that achievement within the football league I don’t think there’s any way their season would have been made null & void.’

 

 
Ollie went on to say ‘It does no one any favours keeping clubs like that down for another season – their colleagues in their league don’t want to have to play them again next season.’

 

 
All the clubs I have mentioned will feel disappointed, downbeat, and effectively robbed by the FA. Whilst they will understand that there are bigger issues in the world right now, I am sure that they would have wanted all of their hard work and effort, both from the players and club members, to be rewarded rather than dismissed without a second thought.

 

 

 

 

Football wise, as Ollie mentioned, why would Combined Counties League Division One sides want to play Jersey Bulls again next season? It would more than likely be the same outcome, meaning one less promotion place. Who would want that? Same goes for Vauxhall Motors, who would more than likely repeat their success this season, possibly being even more relentless because they are determined to get the promotion they deserve. If you were the FA or any club, you would allow promotion, especially to these two sides.

 

 
Financially it is a mammoth smack in the face for ALL non-league clubs. Since the announcement, 10 clubs have already withdrawn from their respective leagues in steps 3-7. This is just the start of what is set to be a catastrophic aftermath of a damaging decision by the FA.

 

 

 

 

 

Ollie Bayliss said ‘During this period we will sadly see some clubs fold. The financial impact of this crisis will take its toll on many others who will struggle financially. It will take a while before we see full competitive leagues again.’

 

 
In the main, clubs in Non-League receive most their income through gate money. With the season ending, that is gone, and clubs will have to look for other ways to raise money to keep the club running and this will undoubtedly be a struggle.

 

 

 

 

That tells you just how bad this could get financially for clubs up and down the country. Some simply will fold. People will lose their local football clubs. We won’t see Non-League like we know and love for a long time to come.

 

 
Ollie told me ‘Clubs will lose out on thousands of pounds from this crisis. Some clubs have asked for relegation in order to balance their budgets for next season – it remains to be seen whether the FA will grant this request.’

 

 
It is a sad situation. Beyond football, Non-League is a family. From the players who form brotherly bonds, to the terraces for your weekly catch up with someone you wouldn’t usually chat to. It brings so many people together. It is all about community, rather than money. Going to Non-League games, for many, feels so much more special and personal compared to being one in 20,000 + people in a Football League and Premier League stadium.

 

Ollie added ‘I think we’ll see a shorten adaptation for next season, perhaps a more regionalised ‘mini league’ with playoffs. Hopefully in time, football will return to the game we know and love, but that might take several years.’

 

 
All in all, whilst it was the right decision to end the season, the way it was ended was wrong. In my opinion, it should have been through a Points Per Game system, which is the fairest way to end any league given the certain circumstances. Nonetheless, no matter what decision was to be made, Non-League won’t be the same for a very, very long time, and we will lose some clubs along the way. It is a sad situation, one which the FA didn’t think about when they made the rash decision that they did.

I caught up with St Peters U18s manager Karl Benest about his sides’ season, and how good an opportunity it is for his young players to compete on the mainland against different opposition in the Kent Youth Cup.

 

Here is what he said:

 

 

How long have you been at St Peters?

 

I have been a coach at St Peter’s since the summer of 2015 where I started out as an assistant.

 

 

What has been your highlight so far?

 

The highlight for me would be as an assistant going unbeaten last season. Winning every game in the Channel Islands, only losing one game which was the semi final in the Kent cup.

 

 

 

How hard is it to coach in Jersey?

 

It can all depend on the players you have. When you have a dedicated team it makes it all that much easier to coach. We are lucky this season that we have a high number of players breaking into senior football, from both U16’s & U18’s. The only downside to coaching in Jersey is the lack of 4g pitches, so we are limited when it comes to training when the weather is bad and the pitches are waterlogged.

 

 

How has the season been so far – prior to Covid-19?

 

Well obviously this season hasn’t gone as anyone was expecting. Before Covid-19 came along we were on course to win the the league, only needing to win our last 2 games to come out on top. We were still in the Kent cup semi-final, where we were due to play Faversham Town on the 29th March.

 

 

Talk to us about the Kent cup – how good is it for you to manage against coaches on the mainland?

 

This is the 2nd year of our U18’s playing away in the Kent Cup. Last season we came close, losing out in the semi final. At the start of this season we set a target to go one step further and reach the final. We have beaten 3 favourites to make it to the semi final (VCD athletic, K Sports & Seven Oaks Town) In the Uk, they were training 3/4 times a week where as we only have 1 training session, with some of the lads also training with seniors and the CoE. With the excellent behind the scenes work being done by other members of St Peter’s Fc, all arrangements are already made, so I have no contact with the other manager until we arrive at the grounds.

 

 

And for the players – how good is it for them?

 

It is an amazing experience for our lads to have. Playing in the UK definitely brings out the best in the boys as we have to go out playing our best whilst not knowing what to expect. We as a club are extremely lucky that we can offer such experiences for our teams, we are the only island team that go away to play.

 

 

Would you like to manage a first team one day?

 

It is definitely something I would consider moving into if the correct opportunity became available, however at the moment I’m in the right place. It is an honour watching the lads progress throughout the season, going onwards and upwards and I can happily know I was a part of helping them to get there. Ever since being young I have wanted to be a part of a team coaching Jersey in the Muratti.

 

 

What were the goals for the rest of the season?

 

Well as it stands the season is over. If things were to drastically change and everything got back to normal the goals would be to go on and win the U18 league, along with the Upton and the Kent cup. For the U16’s it would be trying to get them the highest place finish we can. Both teams consist of a great bunch of lads, they really are a credit to St Peter’s.