Kingston, Jamaica – August 23, 2024 – In a surprising turn of events, Theodore ‘Tappa’ Whitmore has been reinstated as the head coach of the Jamaica Premier League club, Mt Pleasant FA. This decision follows a decisive meeting with the club’s management on Friday, marking Whitmore’s return to the helm just months after his departure.
Whitmore, a revered figure in Jamaican football, steps back into the role vacated by Harold Thomas. Thomas, who initially succeeded Whitmore in June, was dismissed along with his entire staff earlier this week. This drastic move came on the heels of a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Cavalier SC in the all-Jamaica Concacaf Caribbean Cup game at Sabina Park, prompting club officials to reconsider their summer decisions.
In an official statement released on Friday afternoon and signed by Sporting Director Paul Christie, Mt Pleasant FA expressed their unwavering trust in Whitmore. Christie affirmed, “Effective immediately, Mount Pleasant Football Academy has entrusted Theodore ‘Tappa’ Whitmore to build a technical team that will ensure Mount Pleasant continues to compete at the highest level.”
The announcement underscored the club’s commitment to restoring its reputation and performance standards. Club President Peter Gould also extended an apology to the dedicated fans of Mt Pleasant for the controversial decisions made during the summer that adversely impacted team performance. Gould emphasized, “We are committed to returning the club to its high standard of professionalism and look forward to the days ahead.”
The team’s managerial reshuffle and Whitmore’s reinstatement are seen as pivotal moves to rejuvenate the team’s competitive spirit and contend robustly in upcoming fixtures.
Whitmore’s departure had initially followed a heart-wrenching loss to Cavalier SC on penalties in the Jamaica Premier League final, which consequently led to his contract not being renewed. However, with his reinstatement, the club is optimistic about future successes and a renewed sense of direction under his seasoned leadership.
As Mt Pleasant navigates this transitional phase, football enthusiasts and loyal supporters eagerly anticipate the impact of Whitmore’s return on the club’s fortunes.