Reggae Boy King takes field for a different cause: A heartfelt message for Jamaica

As the world prepares to mark World Heart Day today, a powerful voice from Jamaica’s football fraternity is amplifying a critical message about health, urging the nation to take a simple, life-saving step.

Reggae Boyz defender Richard King has teamed up with the Heart Institute of the Caribbean (HIC) in a mission that hits closer to home than any match-day fixture. The initiative aims to protect the heart health of every Jamaican, a mission the HIC has championed for more than 20 years.

Despite their decades of work saving countless lives, the reality within the sporting community remains sobering. In the past 10 years, several athletes and coaches have been lost to heart disease, a stark reminder that the condition knows no age, no fitness level, and no boundaries.

The tragic incident involving St George’s College and Waterhouse FC footballer Dominic James vividly comes to mind. James died shortly after collapsing from heart failure just minutes into St George’s Manning Cup match against Excelsior High at the Stadium East field back in 2016.

That is why the support of an international athlete like King is so pivotal. The St Mirren defender is using his platform to inspire his peers, fellow athletes, and Jamaica’s youth to take their heart health seriously.

“Being part of this initiative with the Heart Institute of the Caribbean is truly special to me,” King said. “As an athlete, my health is the foundation of everything I do, so having their support means a lot.”

King’s involvement goes beyond the field. He emphasised the broader impact of heart disease on the island. “I’ve learnt so much about how heart disease affects families and communities across Jamaica. So I’m happy to use my platform to raise awareness and encourage others to take their health seriously. It’s not about football; I want to make a positive impact on my community.”

Rachel Christian, head of community engagement and market development at the HIC, highlighted the significance of King’s advocacy. “Reggae Boyz defender Richard King’s voice is so powerful,” she stated. “He not only takes responsibility for his own heart health and that of his parents, but he also inspires others to do the same. His support amplifies our call to action in a way few others can.”

World Heart Day is celebrated annually on September 29. It’s a campaign which seeks to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases, one of the leading causes of death worldwide.