Game-changer for St James High
New sports courts inspire hope
Published:Wednesday | June 25, 2025 | 12:07 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
St James High School is on a mission to transform its sports programmes thanks to a partnership forged with American Airlines and Glasswing International that will see the school getting its own basketball and netball courts.
More than 40 American Airlines team members from Jamaica, the United States, Peru, and Mexico participated in a large-scale community event at the school on Tuesday, which set in motion the plans to build two multiuse sports courts.
“We are building a basketball and a netball court because we don’t have these facilities for the students, so they have come here today in large numbers to participate in the construction work,” said Joseph Williams, the school’s principal. “They are also doing painting and beautification. This is so tremendous. Even though it’s not completed, the feeling is ecstatic already, and the students are looking forward to it.”
Until now, students had to travel to Jarrett Park and the Montego Bay Sports Complex for training and games, an arrangement that created significant financial strain on the school.
“We will have our home court so we can have home games. The school is 64 years old, and we’ve never had a basketball or netball court. This is a game-changer for us. It’s one of the greatest things that can happen to St James High School right now,” stated Williams.
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROJECT
The initiative is more than just a construction project. It is seen as a major step towards youth empowerment and holistic education. A total of 1,785 students and 118 teachers will directly benefit from the courts, which are expected to be completed in time for the new school year in September. The school hopes that the new facilities will support the development of well-rounded individuals by promoting sports, teamwork, and leadership alongside academics.
“At American Airlines, we have a strong commitment to Jamaica, a country that we have proudly called home for almost 50 years,” said José A. Freig, vice-president of international and inflight dining operations at American Airlines. “Through our continued partnership with Glasswing International, our hope is that our team members are able to make a positive and lasting impact, together giving back to a community that is so important in our Caribbean network.”
“We are building these two courts as part of an opportunity to give back to the communities where we operate. Eventually, we will look at cricket and soccer. The students at St James High are highly focused on sports but needed the facilities to soar higher and dream big,” continued Freig.
The courts are part of a broader strategy by Glasswing International, a non-profit entity that works to transform educational spaces through community action.
“At Glasswing, we believe in the transformative power of community partnerships,” said Chris Martínez, regional projects director for the Caribbean. “This project in Jamaica is a meaningful opportunity to strengthen educational and wellness spaces while working hand in hand with volunteers, partners, and communities committed to creating change.”
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlet also hailed the effort as a model for future public-private partnerships in Jamaica.