Caledonia AIA will be traveling to Port–au-Prince not only in search of victory in their return clash with Tempete FC but will be hoping to touch a piece of history and offer their helpings to the less fortunate on the poverty-stricken country.
This is the intention of the club according to head coach Jamaal Shabazz as his team continues their build up for the return leg of their Caribbean Football Union match on May 9 which Caledonia will aim to overturn the 1-0 defeat suffered last Friday as they attempt to advance to the Championship semi-finals en route to the CONCACAF Champions League.
“It’s a huge challenge for sure but we have become accustomed to situations like these where our backs are up against the wall.
But for us going to Haiti means more than just going to win or lose a football match Even though we are going for a victory, it’s more about the historical significance where people of our community Morvant/Laventille can go to a country which has shown the ability to rise above tragedies. To me that is the real essence of this trip,” Shabazz said.
The former National Senior Team assistant coach said his club will take the necessary precautions by travelling with its own water supplies and other canned foods but will still embrace their hosts.
“We took care of their expenses in Trinidad and they are also supposed to return the favour. Even in war, I have been taught that you have to eat the food they have prepared. We are confident that the Caribbean spirit that exists between the teams will not be lost here.”
Caledonia will spend an extra day in Haiti and intends to offer some football supplies to those in need.
“We will take some of the excess gears we have and pass it on to the brothers there and try to get a first-hand look at the country.
We are also teaming up with a group that Angus Eve is associated with that provides support to the people in Haiti,” Shabazz said.
Anyone else including supporters who are interested in joining the team in support on the trip can reach the Caledonia management for additional information.
Former LA Galaxy striker Cornell Glen has received the necessary clearance to play in the competition and will travel with the team while Ryan Stewart has responded well to treatment and is likely to feature.