The Oassing of a football legend - Rock Ribeiro

In football circles of yesteryear, you may mention the name, Augustine Ribeiro. No one will pay attention for nothing is known of an “AUGUSTINE” Ribeiro, his official name.

Substitute the name, “Rock” Ribeiro, and, in those very circles, there immediately follows a level of respect, awe and story-telling that is compelling. Especially in the south of Trinidad, his name and story are legendary. Among the older footballers and certainly, within the communities of La Brea and Point Fortin, Rock Ribeiro is an unforgettable name. It is perhaps unpardonable that we should have forgotten this trailblazer from the district of La Brea who remained a household word decade after he stopped playing “the beautiful game”. In short, he was the FIRST player from the La Brea/Point Fortin region to represent Trinidad & Tobago at Football. Testimony to his contribution and greatness as a player is the fact that he was featured in the Trinidad Guardian, 12th April 2009, some FIFTY years after he stopped playing football by reason of failing eyesight and SIXTY-ONE years after he first represented this country. In 2010 when the PP government came into office, he was given a national award - the Humming Bird Medal (Silver) - for his contribution to football. Sadly, last Wednesday, at ninety-two years of age, he died and was buried last Saturday in a funeral deserving of one of his stature. Sunshine Today wishes to extend to Rock’s friends and family our deep condolences on his passing. He has left a void that will not be easily filled by anyone.