JERSEY FA’s newly appointed head coach Jack Cannon is gearing up for his first Island Games at the helm, as his side aim to defend their title in Orkney next week.
The 2023 Island Games in Guernsey saw Jersey crowned champions for the fourth time after a 5-2 victory over Ynys Môn.
With a significantly younger group than in previous tournaments, Cannon admits squad selection was shaped by availability and some high-profile absences. But that hasn’t dented his confidence in the group.
“Obviously, it’s a young squad, largely due to the availability of certain players and a few not wanting to be selected.”
“But in fairness to the group we have, they’ve applied themselves brilliantly in training. We can’t have asked for much more.”
Cannon, himself a six-time Island Games competitor as a player, brings valuable experience and a player-first approach to the manager role. He believes the fast-paced tournament format will suit his youthful squad.
“We’ve got a lot of lads who play in U18, U23, and senior competitions, often week in, week out. That match fitness and rhythm could actually be a huge advantage. These boys are used to this level.”
Jersey head into the competition as reigning champions, but Cannon is under no illusions about the challenge ahead.
“Of course we want to go out there and win every game, but we’ve been clear with the lads, it’s just as much about individual development. For many of them, this will be their first time wearing the Jersey shirt at this level, and that’s a big step.”
The draw has placed Jersey in a group with Shetland and Gozo, familiar opposition for the coaching staff.
“Shetland were strong last time,” Cannon continued, “and by all accounts, they will be again.
“You never quite know what to expect at the Island Games as teams can vary in quality each tournament, but we’re focused on putting in a good performance regardless.”
Despite the freshness of the squad, Cannon believes the bonds are already forming well thanks to a strong training environment and off-pitch camaraderie.
“Even though many of the lads haven’t played together for Jersey at senior level, quite a few have come through the youth system together.”
“We’ve done a lot to build that cohesion – fun drills, a fines list, things like that to keep spirits high. The team spirit has been excellent on that front.”
One final warm-up match against St Paul’s awaits before the squad departs, and Cannon views it as a vital step in preparing the group both tactically and mentally.
“It’s a chance to see how they apply what we’ve been working on. The last session before a big competition is always important and the lads are buzzing for it.”
This edition of the Island Games means more than just competition to Cannon, who speaks fondly of the unique atmosphere the games brings.
“It’s brilliant,” he mused, “you’ve got the opening and closing ceremonies, the chance to watch other sports, mix with athletes from all the different islands, it’s a special week.
“These opportunities don’t come around often, sometimes only every four years if you miss one, so you have to make the most of it.”
On a practical level, players were required to contribute financially to attend, a reality Cannon was up front about from day one.
“The lads knew the terms from the off. We were honest. Yes, the cost isn’t ideal, but they were either in or they weren’t. And the ones who’ve committed have done so with the right attitude.”
For Cannon and assistant coach Peter Vincenti, himself a former Island Games player, the goal is to combine hard work with a sense of freedom.
“When we’re on the pitch, it’s serious, we expect full focus and effort. But outside of that, we want them to relax and enjoy the experience. Myself and Peter [Vincenti] have been there. We know what it means to be a player in that environment.”
With a blend of promising talent, a strong team culture and a coach who’s walked the same path, Jersey’s men’s squad will head to Orkney looking to compete, develop, and perhaps surprise a few people along the way in their attempt to defend their crown.
In conclusion, Cannon said passionately: “We just want to show a good account of ourselves. Regardless of results, if each player comes back better for the experience, then we’ll consider it a success.”
Jersey FA Men’s Squad
- Sonny Cassidy, Ralph Depledge, Harry Davy, Stanley Dunne, Ewan Brodie, Harrison Moon, Tom Goncalves, Harry Gladdish, Karl Hinds, Evan Lees, Connor Lloyd, Connor Maher, Nathan MacDonald, Rob Martins-Figueira, Joey O’Toole, Casey Nixon, Max Stefanski, Frank Tobin, Will Yates
- Manager: Jack Cannon
- Player/Coach: Peter Vincenti