St George’s ‘Star Balla’ Burkett aims high

St George's College's Brian Burkett stands out as a shining example of what Digicel, title sponsors of the urban schoolboy football Manning Cup, seeks to celebrate as a student-athlete.

The 18-year-old Burkett boasts 13 goals and contributed 20 goals to St George's success, leading them to the semi-finals of the Manning Cup - an achievement that Digicel's Chief Marketing Officer, Tari Lovell, describes as remarkable.

"Brian is a phenomenal student-athlete and a true inspiration to his peers. It's not always easy to balance the books while staying ahead of the game. This is why we salute Brian for his dedication and discipline," Lovell said.

Burkett already holds nine CSEC passes in Mathematics, Principles of Accounts, English A, English B, Biology, Spanish, Technical Drawing, Information Technology and Physical Education. Additionally, he achieved four CAPE subjects in Spanish, Communication Studies, Physical Education, and Information Technology.

For Burkett, it's all about priorities: "I balance schoolwork and football with time management and being disciplined. My parents encourage me to be disciplined, hard-working, and responsible."

He hopes to pass on his winning approach to his peers.

"Through Christ, all things are possible. I think we have a good team with a lot of quality, but we must remain focused and humble and take it one game at a time," Burkett noted.

He played for Dunbeholden in last season's top-tier Jamaica Premier League, scoring one goal, but remains steadfast in his ambition to play football at the highest level.

"Have a plan. Set small objectives to improve yourself to achieve your main goal or dream. Above all, be disciplined and focused," advised Burkett.