ST ANDREW, Jamaica—The Red Hills United Football Club (RHUFC), a staple of the community for over 15 years, is embarking on a mission to restore its home ground and reinvigorate the team’s future. Spearheaded by manager Shane Clarke, the club has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise US$15,000 to cover the costs of equipment, nutritional support, and rehabilitation of its facilities.
The coronavirus pandemic brought significant challenges to the club, but Clarke remains determined to restore it to its former glory. “The club has been a lifeline for young people in the area. It’s more than just football—it’s about creating opportunities for growth and development. Through sports, our youth can build discipline, earn scholarships, and stay focused on positive goals,” said Clarke.
The fundraising effort aims to cover the expenses necessary for RHUFC’s participation in the upcoming Kingston and St Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) Major League season. The funds will help purchase gear for players, provide nutritional support, and ensure that the team is fully equipped to take on the competition. Clarke also emphasized that the long-term vision for the club extends beyond the Major League: “We’re not just focused on winning now. Our aim is to climb the ranks, make it to the KSAFA championship, and eventually the Jamaica Premier League (JPL).”
One of the key motivations for Clarke’s efforts came when he revisited the club’s home ground in Red Hills. “I hadn’t been to the field in years, but when I saw the state it was in last May, I knew something had to be done. The grass was taller than the goalposts in some areas. That wasn’t the Red Hills United I knew,” Clarke explained. Along with his cousins and a small team of volunteers, he began restoring the field, spending 12 weeks clearing the overgrown grass and preparing it for the upcoming season.
RHUFC currently boasts a squad of 35 registered players and relies on a core team of eight people, most of whom volunteer their time. Despite the challenges, the club has received support from local leaders, including Member of Parliament Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, and corporate sponsors, who have helped fuel its resurgence.
The club’s mission remains clear: to provide a platform for young athletes to grow, both on and off the field. Clarke’s commitment to restoring RHUFC is a testament to the power of community sports in transforming lives and inspiring future generations.
