Son delights on father’s birthday

FORMER NATIONAL striker, Shandel Samuel, celebrated his 43rd birthday with special delight at the Arnos Vale Playing Field at the finals of the Zess Cola Schools Football Competition, on Sunday, December 14, 2025.

It was made more auspicious for the once prolific goal scorer, as he was on hand to see one of his off springs, J’ Shan Samuel, in what may be considered ‘carbon copy’ play of the elder Samuel.

The younger Samuel was the architect of the Barrouallie Secondary School’s Junior team’s extra time display in their final versus the St Martin’s Secondary, as he netted a brace that eventually saw his team retaining the title.

J’ Shan’s strikes not only helped his team to the title but saw him nipping the most goals award for his 12 strikes.

Proud of J’ Shan’s prowess, Shandel said it was a “good” birthday gift for him.

The elder Samuel has represented St Vincent and the Grenadines at the age

group level, as well as the senior level, and once carried the moniker “ Bound to Score” because of his goal scoring ability.

Spanning a national career of about 15 years, Shandel counts 119 matches for St Vincent and the Grenadines, with 50 goals to his credit. He is listed as St Vincent and the Grenadines’ all-time goal scorer.

At present, Shandel serves as a striker coach with the senior St Vincent and the Grenadines men’s team,Vincy Heat.

Shandel is hopeful that J’ Shan will fill his boots and even surpass his accomplishments.