Former national defender Vernon Bell passes

Former national defender and Premier League winning coach with Tivoli Gardens FC Vernon Bell is dead. It's understood that he passed away in the United State of Ohio on Monday night at the age of 79.

Bell's impact on the sport locally began in the 1960s, where he made his mark as a key defender for the Jamaican national team. 

He also played at Santos with brothers Jackie and Howard "Juicy" Bell. Bell also won the Walker Cup title with Kingston College in 1963.

Following his international career, Vernon Bell's influence on local football was profound, particularly in the local top flight. He led Tivoli Gardens FC to the 1998 Craven "A" National Premier League title. He also coached at Kingston College.