On Tuesday 25th August staff and students from East Berkshire College and Hartpury College came together to remember the life of Jomo Faal Thomas. Jomo, a former student at both colleges, sadly past away earlier in the month after a year long battle against cancer.

By way of tribute the two colleges have agreed to play a regular fixture against each other during pre-season for the Jomo Faal Thomas Memorial trophy.

The inaugural fixture ended in a closely fought 2-1 win for East Berkshire in a game that was a fitting tribute to the memory of an individual who had a hugely positive impact on both institutions.

The accompanying picture shows the East Berkshire Captain being presented with the Jomo Faal – Thomas Trophy by East Berkshire coach Simon East.

Jomo enjoyed a fantastic career at college level, captaining the ECFA national team through one of its most successful periods. He also progressed well in the non-league game, making appearances for Wealdstone, Aldershot and Staines which eventually led to a trial with league 2 side Crewe Alexandra.

Just as impressive as his performances on the pitch was the way Jomo conducted himself off it. He excelled in the classroom gaining a national diploma at distinction level from East Berkshire before illness cut short his business management degree at Hartpury. His dedication to both his training and his studies was a great example to all student athletes, and his lifestyle choices away from the game displayed his determination and desire to be the best he could be.

He will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Further comment can be found at:

http://www.hartpury.ac.uk/news/detail.asp?PRID=1072