Calabar reportedly files Manning Cup eligibility complaint against Excelsior

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Calabar High have reportedly lodged an eligibility complaint against defending champions Excelsior High following their recent ISSA Manning Cup encounter. Observer Online has learnt that the complaint was filed with the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA), alleging that Excelsior fielded a player believed by Calabar to be ineligible. ISSA neither confirmed nor denied the report, but a Calabar source, who requested anonymity, confirmed the complaint to Observer Online. “It's true, but can't say too much yet,” the source said. Excelsior won the match 2-1, but the reported complaint could put the result under scrutiny if ISSA confirms receipt of the claim and launches an investigation. The development comes against the backdrop of the recent eligibility controversy involving Jamaica College (JC), which was sanctioned by ISSA after fielding national youth player Jamone Lyle, who was found to have a professional contract with Jamaica Premier League club Waterhouse FC. JC were removed from the Walker Cup competition after their semi-final victory over Mona High was overturned. They were also suspended from the 2027 Walker Cup and forfeited their Manning Cup second-round match against St Catherine High, which they had originally won 3-2. St Catherine were awarded a 3-0 victory. ISSA subsequently upheld the sanctions after JC appealed. READ: No final for JC as ISSA upholds Walker Cup ban The JC case has brought renewed attention to ISSA's eligibility and amateurism rules, which prohibit professionally contracted players from participating in the association's competitions. However, it remains unclear whether the complaint reportedly lodged by Calabar concerns a similar breach or another eligibility issue. — Howard Walker