HUTSON CHARLES won three Caribbean Cup titles as a player, including the first in 1989 alongside a teenaged Dwight Yorke, and the third at home in 1994—those being among his best memories.
Charles is now first-assistant on a senior team led by former Canada head coach Stephen Hart. Also working with the new boss are second assistant Derek King, goalkeeper coach Michael Maurice, physio Dave Issac, Dr. Terence Babwah, equipment manager Michael Williams and trainer Sairon Joseph.
“We have a good thing going. Everybody enjoying themselves, and I enjoying myself too,” the former outstanding midfielder for T&T and Defence Force declared with a flashing toothy grin. Charles takes what some might call a demotion in stride, even praising his new boss Hart for recent improvement in the team, both on the field, and in the FIFA world-rankings.
“The thing that is first and foremost for me is improving Trinidad and Tobago football,” Charles said, while adding that knowing Hart previously made the transition seamless. Charles believes that everything is falling into place for T&T to win a first Caribbean Cup in 13 years.
Government have provided funding, the Soca Warriors are improving, and there is a bright spirit among staff and footballers. “We have set the bar pretty high and the only desire is to win the Caribbean Cup and qualify for the Gold Cup,” said Charles. “We came so close last time when we came second and want to go all the way this time.”
The assistant national team coach thanked Government for supporting the team this time, unlike two years ago when then Sport Minister Anil Roberts threatened to withhold funding for the senior team. Charles revealed a special role by the National Security minister in helping the Soca Warriors.
“I know it’s not his Ministry, but he has been working in the background to make this thing reality, of winning the Caribbean Cup and qualifying for the Gold Cup,” Charles intimated. “The Minister of National Security has been doing a lot, and helping a lot, in terms of getting the resources that we need,” ended Charles.