The Hydel Group of Schools has announced the appointment of Alex Thomas as the new head coach of its Manning Cup football team, marking a new era for the programme as it aims to build on its growing reputation as a rising powerhouse in schoolboy football.
Thomas takes over from Devon Anderson, whose tenure ended following a successful multi-year run that saw Hydel emerge as serious contenders in the ISSA/Digicel Manning Cup competition. The appointment was made official this month, with Thomas set to begin preseason training on July 7 ahead of the 2025 schoolboy football season.
“I’m feeling very elated,” said Thomas. “Hydel has been doing very well over the past three to four years. The programme has strong support from the principal and the management team, and they have a clear ambition to win. That’s what attracted me.”
Thomas, a highly respected coach in local football circles, brings a wealth of experience at both the schoolboy and senior levels. He previously served on the coach staff at Wolmer’s Boys from 2009 to 2019, leading the team to multiple titles including the Walker Cup and Champions Cup. He also served as head coach for the U14 and U16 teams winning several championships with both. The only title that has eluded him so far is the Manning Cup—something he’s now aiming to change with Hydel.
“I’ve won every major schoolboy title except the Manning Cup,” he said. “I’ve been to two finals, and now this is the piece I’m coming to complete. I believe we have the foundation here to do it.”
Thomas was present with the Hydel team during the latter stages of the 2024/2025 season and is already familiar with the current squad. “I know the players. I know the quality we have. It’s just about keeping them focused and building a strong, united unit moving forward,” he noted.
A coach known for his attacking philosophy, Thomas says fans can expect a dynamic brand of football. “My style is total football—very attacking, high energy, and tactical discipline. The players must be mentally and physically prepared to work.”
In addition to his schoolboy credentials, Thomas has coached in the Jamaica Premier League with clubs such as Arnett Gardens, Molynes United, and Humble Lion FC. He also had an international stint with Slingerz FC in Guyana, experiences he believes have sharpened his football acumen.
“I’ve seen football from four corners now,” he said. “The experience I’ve gained, especially overseas, has elevated me as a coach. I’m not the same coach I was in 2019. I’m more equipped now, and I’m excited to bring that knowledge back into schoolboy football.”
With preseason set to begin in early July, Thomas is eager to get to work and begin shaping the next chapter of Hydel’s football journey.
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