Sun | Oct 5, 2025

GoodHeart | Pocket Rocket scholar Michael Fletcher serves excellence

Published:Saturday | October 4, 2025 | 12:08 AM
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Dr Jermaine McCalpin (left), executive director of the Pocket Rocket Foundation, and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, founder of the foundation, listen attentively as Cary Fletcher (second left) shares the accomplishments of his son, Michael Fletcher.
Contributed
Dr Jermaine McCalpin (left), executive director of the Pocket Rocket Foundation, and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, founder of the foundation, listen attentively as Cary Fletcher (second left) shares the accomplishments of his son, Michael Fletcher.
Michael Fletcher and his father, Cary, celebrate York Castle High School’s historic victory at the ISSA Rural Championship earlier this year.
Contributed
Michael Fletcher and his father, Cary, celebrate York Castle High School’s historic victory at the ISSA Rural Championship earlier this year.
It’s a proud moment as young Michael draws close to his dad Cary Fletcher at the recently held Pocket Rocket Foundation Scholarship Awards Ceremony.
Contributed
It’s a proud moment as young Michael draws close to his dad Cary Fletcher at the recently held Pocket Rocket Foundation Scholarship Awards Ceremony.
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At just 14 years old, Michael Keith Fletcher carries himself with a quiet poise that belies his age. The third-form student at York Castle High School is already juggling a full plate of academics, athletics, and extra-curricular achievements, excelling in all. He is a top student, a former St Ann Parish Gleaner Spelling Bee Champion, captain of his school’s table tennis team and, now, one of the 20 student-athletes awarded the Pocket Rocket Foundation Scholarship for 2025.

Founded by Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the foundation provides financial and moral support to young talents balancing sports and academics.

For Michael, this recognition is affirmation that he is on the right path.

“I felt awesome, surprised, and excited. To be chosen by the foundation showed me I have great potential,” he shares, his eyes lighting up. “It motivates me to stay focused on my journey ahead.”

Michael, who was the 2022 St Ann Parish Gleaner Spelling Bee Champion, later placing sixth nationally, said the experience taught him discipline and focus. Soon after the competition, his father, Cary Fletcher, introduced him to table tennis where he quickly found his passion. “I enjoy the feeling of smashing the ball past my opponent,” he said with a smile. Now captain of York Castle’s under-16 team, he has led them to the 2025 Rural Championship title and a national runner-up finish.

Behind his success is a family that believes in him deeply. His parents are not just cheerleaders; they are managers, mentors, and constant motivators. His father doubles as a weekend coach, training Michael on technique and discipline.

His mother, Kaye Lambert Fletcher, helps ensure his academics remain just as strong as his athletics. Together, they’ve invested in equipment, travel to competitions, and opportunities for him to sharpen his skills.

“My parents inspire me the most,” Michael said firmly.

“I support Michael in everything he does because that’s how I was raised. His achievements are a reflection of our shared effort, and I take pride in doing my part to help him succeed,” Cary added confidently.

Michael dreams of representing Jamaica in table tennis while building a career in business. Beyond his medals, he’s still a regular teen who enjoys YouTube, video games, and music.

His advice to other student-athletes is simple: “Find a sport you love, work hard at it, and always have time management.” With family support, the Pocket Rocket Foundation, and his own quiet determination, Michael Fletcher is already serving up excellence and making Jamaica proud.

goodheart@gleanerjm.com