Those that leave a lasting impression

It’s remarkable how certain individuals leave a lasting impression on us, even with just a single encounter. Their presence and the way they carry about themselves can be so profound that, years later, the memory remains vivid, shaping our perceptions and inspiring us. When such a person passes on, the impact they had on us feels even more significant.

I experienced this firsthand when I met Sven-Göran Eriksson at the Trinidad and Tobago versus England World Cup match in 2006. At the time, it was a brief but unforgettable moment, one I thought would fade into the background of time. But 15 years later, during an interview, I was astonished that he remembered me. It was a powerful, humbling moment that underscored how deeply certain connections can resonate, not just in our memories but in our lives.

And I say surprised because on June 15th in Nuremberg, Germany, I was 25, very much a kid in the profession, and I had a brief introduction to him in the locker room area and would have sat in the audience at the post-game press conference.

Even more surprisingly, during our interview, which came about from a previous hook-up with Chris Anderson, Sven recalled he had interacted with me during the 2010 World Cup group stage match between Ivory Coast and North Korea as he (as head coach) and Didier Drogba sat on the head table for the post-match press conference for which I wore the hat of a FIFA Media Officer.

“To be part of the World Cup, that is the best thing you can do. So it’s beautiful. It’s the best of everything football in the world. I remember Rooney coming in against you (Trinidad and Tobago). It was nice, but we didn’t win it (the World Cup),Sven told me.

When such a person as him passes away, the memories of that encounter become even more poignant. It’s not just about what they said or did; it’s the realisation that their essence, their character, left an indelible imprint on your life.

It’s these encounters that remind us of the human capacity to connect, to leave a legacy, even in the smallest of ways. When such individuals are no longer with us, their impact doesn’t fade; if anything, it becomes more profound. Sven passed on August 26th at age 76.

I turn the script over to Joey “Posh” Richardson. Post: The Flagman Who Carried a Nation’s Pride in the rich tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago’s sporting history. Certain figures have stood out not just for their presence but for the indelible mark they left on the sport and the nation. Posh was one such figure. His recent passing leaves a void that goes beyond the stadiums where he waved our national flag with unmatched pride and vigour.

For years, Richardson was more than just a spectator at football matches—he was a living symbol of our national spirit. His unwavering dedication saw him travelling near and far, ensuring that the red, white, and black of Trinidad and Tobago was not just visible but felt in every corner of the world where our national teams competed. His last two encounters were in Texas for the Copa America playoff with Canada and the most recent 7-1 win over the Bahamas in a World Cup qualifier in June in St. Kitts.

Let me just share a little on the vibes Joey brought. The game in Canada was completed, and as the T&T contingent made its way back to the locker rooms, there was Joey with a flag in hand positioned over the tunnel area shouting every player’s name as they walked past, and there he was shouting “Shaun Shaun Shaun!” Such was the love he had for everyone.

Whether at home or abroad, in the blistering sun or torrential rain, Posh was there, flag in hand, embodying the hope, passion, and resilience of every Trinbagonian. The sight of Posh in the stands was a source of inspiration not only for the fans but for the players themselves. To the team, he represented the unwavering support of an entire nation, a reminder that they were never alone on the field. His presence was a morale booster, a testament to the fact that win or lose, Trinidad and Tobago’s pride was non-negotiable and ever-present.

The flag he carried was not just a piece of fabric; it was a symbol of our identity, our unity, and our collective dreams. Beyond the stadium, Richardson’s life and actions exemplified what it means to be a patriot. He was a man who understood that football, like all sports, is a powerful force for unity.

In a world often fragmented by differences, Posh reminded us of the strength found in unity, in rallying behind a cause greater than oneself. His passing is a solemn reminder that the true icons of sport are not always the ones on the field, but often those who give of themselves selflessly and who devote their lives to something larger.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate the life of a man who showed us all what it means to love and support one’s country with unwavering dedication. The next time our national teams take to the field in Honduras on September 6th and September 10th in Tobago, there will undoubtedly be a sense of something missing, but Posh’s spirit will be there, waving that flag in our hearts. His life reminds us all to carry our flag high, with pride, no matter where life takes us. Rest in peace, Joey “Posh” Richardson, our beloved flagman. Your legacy will continue to wave as high as the flags you so proudly carried.

Editor’s Note

Shaun Fuentes is the head of TTFA Media. He was a FIFA Media Officer at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa and the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Turkey. He has travelled to 88 countries during his journey in sport. The views expressed are solely his and not a representation of any organisation. shaunfuentes@yahoo.com

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