Calvin Stewart

Calvin Clifton Stewart (born 1946) is a former Jamaican footballer who played as a central defender. Stewart's career included significant stints at Kingston College, Harbour View F.C., Cavalier F.C., and the Jamaica national team.^[1] His nickname during his football career was “Webba”. In 2023, Stewart was honored at the 38th Bell/Ziadie Memorial Football Festival, where he was recognized alongside other notable figures in Jamaican football.^[2][3]

Calvin Clifton Stewart
Born	1946 (age 78–79) Kingston, Jamaica
Education	Kingston College
Occupation	Footballer
Years active	1963—1985
Height	6 ft (183 cm)
Children	3

Early life

Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Stewart attended Kingston College, where he was a prominent member of the school's Manning Cup football team. In 1967, Stewart played a key role in Kingston College's 2-0 victory over Excelsior in the Manning Cup final replay at the National Stadium.^[4]

Career

Cavalier F. C.

Stewart played a pivotal role in strengthening Cavalier F.C. during the 1970s. He was influential in encouraging other players to join the club, including David Bernard Sr., who transitioned from the army to Cavalier in 1972 at Stewart's suggestion. Bernard Sr. credited Stewart and teammate Delroy "Mutty" Scott for introducing him to the club, which marked the beginning of Bernard's long association with Cavalier.^[5]

International Career

Stewart was part of the Kingston and St. Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) squad that toured Bermuda in the 1971–72 season, a team that closely resembled the Jamaican national side preparing for Olympic qualifiers. During the tour, KSAFA played against clubs such as Pembroke Hamilton Club, Bermuda Football Union, and Somerset C.C.^[6]

Stewart was also member of the Jamaica national football team throughout the 1970s. He was part of the national football team during their tour of Guatemala. This period was before the team was commonly known as "The Reggae Boyz." The squad featured several players linked to Harbour View F.C., including Stewart himself. This image marked the period of Jamaica's football history, as the national team built its foundation for future campaigns. In addition to his participation in the 1971–72 tour of Guatemala, he was also a member of the squad that competed in Haiti in 1975.

He played a key role in the squad that competed in the 1976 Olympic qualifiers. During these qualifiers, Jamaica narrowly missed advancing to the Montreal Olympics after a decisive match against the United States. Despite trailing 1-0 in the closing minutes, teammate Clarence Prendes missed a crucial tap-in opportunity, ending Jamaica's Olympic hopes. Stewart's involvement in this campaign marked a significant chapter in his international career.

Additionally, Stewart participated in Jamaica's 1976 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, making at least two appearances against Cuba in August 1976.^[7]

Playing Style

Known for his role as a central defender, Stewart was characterised by his robust defensive form and strategic understanding of the game. His ability to read the game effectively made him a crucial presence in the defensive line, earning respect from teammates and opponents alike.

Personal life

Stewart has three children with Betty Reid of Atlanta, United States.

Legacy and Honours

Stewart's contributions to Jamaican football were acknowledged when he was honoured at the 38th Bell/Ziadie Memorial Football Festival in 2023, where he was described by Lorne Donaldson, as the "best centre half that nobody knows."^[8]

He has been touted as one of Cavaliers best and most talented players.^[9][10]