Jermaine Lannaman, Star Writer

Spanish Town High principal Clayton Hall is relishing the opportunity of being a part of his school's ISSA/Pepsi/Digicel Manning Cup team.

Hall, who last could be seen on the players' bench during their clash with Wolmer's Boys at Heroes Circle, said being intricately involved with the team is something he enjoys, as it gives him the opportunity to be a part of the students lives in an unusual way.

"At Spanish Town High, we have students from very difficult socio-economic backgrounds, who do not have positive support and male involvement in their lives," said Hall who, at 34, is one of youngest principals in the secondary schools system in Jamaica.

"By being here, the aim is to help and dismantle this reality, and to see if I can help in their outlook on life," he added.

offering guidance

One of several young principals who were a part of the Sunday Gleaner's recent 'Under 40 and Fixing Jamaica' feature, Hall could be seen offering guidance and support from the players' bench.

In one instance, he was also seen helping an injured player off the field, with the assistance of another player.

"When I took over the school, we were one of the many schools that had disciplinary problems with their footballers.

"The fact is that a number of players go through school without been shown care, and matriculating as they should. I want to change this, and with this in mind, it is one of reasons why I am here," said Hall.

The game ended 1-0 in Wolmer's' favour, with Spanish Town suffering their first defeat of the season.

The boys from the old capital still have a chance of qualifying for the second round, however, as with 10 points from six games, they are one point behind second-place Wolmer's, and five behind two-time defending champions St George's College.