Daraine Luton, Freelance Writer
WATERHOUSE FOOTBALL Club has dedicated their second Premier League title to the memory of former coach Peter 'Jair' Cargill. They have also dedicated the win to lasting peace in their inner-city community.
Bruce Bicknell, vice-chairman of Waterhouse, made the disclosure yesterday when Waterhouse drew 0-0 with Harbour View at Drewsland to lift the title they had made their own the previous week.
'It is for Peter Cargill, peace in the community and by extension peace in Jamaica," Bicknell, who was dressed in Waterhouse's blue, told The Gleaner.
"We know what this means to Peter and it is definitely to his memory. He would have been happy if he were alive," Bicknell added.
Bicknell was numbered among the hundreds of patrons who wore Waterhouse colours, blue and yellow. Even Patrick Roberts, Arnett Gardens' president, wore something Waterhouse - a yellow undershirt.
IMPOSING BILLBOARD
A moment barely passed at Drewsland when Cargill was not remembered. Apart from the imposing billboard with his pictures overlooking the park, memorials for Cargill were in many forms. From writings on T-shirts to a minute's silence at the start, Cargill, who stood with Waterhouse as coach and Harbour View as player and coach, was fondly remembered.
Cargill died on April 16, a year and a day ago after a mini-van in which he was traveling hit a boulder. He was on his way to western Jamaica for an NPL game against Wadadah. He sustained serious injuries and died in hospital.
Waterhouse had promised to win the title for Cargill, a pledge they have not forgotten.
"I am so very happy to win the Premier League and without doubt it is dedicated to coach Cargill," said Waterhouse's flank man, Irvino English.
"He built the core of this team and is truly deserving of these hounors," added English, who wears the number 7 jersey, a number that has become synonymous with Cargill.
English was not in the hospital room when Cargill took his last breath but he said his teammates and members of the management staff told him that Cargill called his name before he died.
CARGILL'S MEMORY
Desmond Breakenridge believes Cargill's memory should be honoured with the title. Breakenridge was captain of Waterhouse at the time of Cargill's death. He has since switched allegiance to Harbour View but even though he has crossed fences, Breakenridge sees the dedication of the title to the memory of the fallen giant to be a great step.
"He has always been my inspiration. My football is always dedicated to Peter, whether I am here or at Harbour View or even overseas he will he is always here - right in my heart," Breakenridge said while clutching his chest with his right hand.
"I believe he is happy for Waterhouse and would be happy for Harbour View if they had won because he had a hand in the development of many of the players in both teams," Breakenridge added.
Meanwhile, Bicknell said a portion of the proceeds from yesterday's game would be given to Cargill's family. He was, however, unable to put a dollar value on how much the family is expected to receive. Cargill is survived by his wife Avril, and children Danique and David.
