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‘My biggest coaching challenge’ - Smythe and star athletes move from Muschett to Holland High
October 07, 2025
When the 2025-26 high school track and field season gets under way, there will be a major coaching shake-up in the west. Garth Smythe, who has led Muschett High School's programme since 2020, has decided to take on a new challenge as head coach of Holland High in Trelawny.
Five of his athletes, including his son Johan Ramaldo and Shanoya Douglas, have joined him at Holland. Both are in sixth form and will be eligible to compete at next year's ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys' and Girls' Athletics Championships.
Holland High is not known for track and field and has never competed at Champs, but Smythe is eager for the challenge.
"For me, it was time to take up a new challenge. Despite Holland not having a track and field culture, I'm ready for it," Smythe said.
He admits this will be his toughest test yet.
"I know this will be my biggest coaching challenge, but I like challenges. Before Muschett, I was at Green Pond High and developed both programmes successfully. I'm very optimistic about doing the same at Holland. I'll take my time and build a three-year programme," he explained.
According to Smythe, the presence of Douglas and the others has already had a positive impact.
"Even though Holland doesn't have a strong track and field culture, the addition of these athletes has created a real buzz. The administration was welcoming, and the students - especially in grades seven and eight - have been turning out for training in big numbers. That's a great sign going forward," he shared.
Smythe emphasised that his departure from Muschett was amicable.
"There was no bad blood between me and Muschett. In life, people make changes, and for me, it was about taking on something new. I still wish them all the best," he said.
He also dismissed rumours that his son would be ineligible for Champs due to multiple transfers.
"That's absolutely false. Johan spent all his previous high school years at Muschett and has competed at Champs since grade seven," Smythe clarified.
With the World Under-20 Championships set for Eugene, Oregon next year, Smythe is also eyeing international success.
Douglas, who won the Class Two sprint double at Champs in March, captured bronze in the 200 metres at the 2024 edition in Lima, Peru.
"Both Douglas and Johan are on the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association's (JAAA) list of athletes preparing for the World Under-20 Championships next year. I'll make sure they're ready when the time comes," Smythe concluded.
