Former Jamaica and Cavalier defender William 'Roy' Welch dies at age 73

By Sports Desk September 19, 2021

Former Cavalier SC and Jamaica player William ‘Roy’ Welch died on Saturday night at the University Hospital of the West Indies. He was 73. Welch, who was admitted to hospital a week ago, died at 11:59 pm Saturday after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.

According to the Kingston and St. Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) President Wayne Shaw, the association has lost another outstanding servant.

He was a Legendary player for Cavalier FC (1967-1982) winning several titles and represented Jamaica from 1969-1982, playing at centre-half with his good friend David Bernard.

He coached several teams in KSAFA in Senior League and Business House Competitions. He served as a football and cricket coach at Scotia Bank for more than two decades. He was also a coach in his community, Maxfield Park FC that competed in the Major League competition.

In 2006, he was the recipient of the Abe Alexander Memorial Award for his contribution to football in Jamaica and was recently honoured by Masters & Celebrities at Bell/Ziadie Football Game also for his contribution to the sport.

According to Shaw, Welch was a man who wore many hats as he also played cricket for Kensington Cricket club and coached Ardenne High School from 1978-1982 in the Manning cup competition and led them to the finals against Camperdown High School in 1979.

He also coached Trench Town in both Manning Cup and Sunlight Cup Cricket competitions.

“A humble and well-loved individual, he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones and we honour his legacy. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Shaw said.

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