GUTTED - Anthony Patrick devastated over separation from Racing United

Veteran coach Anthony Patrick says he is devastated by the decision taken by the management of Jamaica Premier League (JPL) outfit Racing United not to renew his contract. 

Patrick, who had been with the club since 2017, guiding them from the St Catherine Division Two into the JPL, said he received a letter from the management of the Gregory Park-based club on Saturday stating that his services were no longer needed at the club. 

“It is not a nice feeling because, trust me, it is a hurtful one,” said Patrick. 

“I gave up so much to take that team from Division Two to the Premier League, which is the highest league, so this is not a nice feeling,” he said. 

“The president of the club gave me the letter on Saturday about 7 p.m. and said that other stakeholders met with him on Wednesday and said that they are going in a different direction now and making some changes, and so they will be bringing in another coach from overseas with his staff,” Patrick said. 

The veteran coach, who is the currently the head coach of St Catherine High School, guided Racing to the JPL play-offs for the first time in their history this season. Patrick noted that he will continue to work in football because this is his passion. 

“But life goes on and you just have to continue to do what you do best. And I will continue to do that because this is no stumbling block in my way,” he said. 

“When you look at the Bridgeport programmes and now the St Catherine High School’s over the years, and the Racing programme, you will see my work in these places,” Patrick added. 

“This brings joy to me … coaching youngsters and getting teams to the highest level and getting the youngsters to play some good football. That is my passion,” he said. 

Meanwhile, Nigel Walker,club president of Racing United, has expressed appreciation for Patrick's contributions.

"Anthony has played a remarkable role in the development and success of Racing United Football Club,” said Walker in media release.

“His dedication, commitment, and leadership have helped build the foundation upon which this club now stands. The achievements accomplished during his tenure are historic and will forever be part of Racing United's story. On behalf of the Board, management, players, staff, supporters, and the wider Racing United family, I would like to thank Anthony for his years of service and wish him every success in the future,” he said. 

“Coach Patrick's contributions extend beyond results on the field. He helped foster a culture of discipline, professionalism, and ambition that has been instrumental in the club's rise through the Jamaican football pyramid,” Walker stated.