Government to establish scholarship in honour of legendary coach Vincent Stephen “Franno” Francis

August 15, 2026

The Government will establish a scholarship in honour of the late Vincent Stephen “Franno” Francis.

Sports Minister Olivia Grange made the announcement at the thanksgiving service celebrating the renowned track-and-field coach’s life at the National Indoor Sports Centre in St. Andrew today.

Ms. Grange said the scholarship will benefit a student-athlete at the University of Technology Jamaica (UTECH).

Discussions about the scholarship’s establishment will include the Government, UTECH and the late coach’s younger brother, Paul Francis.

https://iriefm.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/SHAN-SCHOLARSHIP-FRAN.mp3

Mr. Francis passed away after a period of illness on July 4.

He was 63 years old.

Among the successful athletes impacted by his training are Kishane Thompson, Asafa Powell, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson, Elaine Thompson-Herah, Tajay Gayle, Sherone Simpson and Brigitte Foster Hylton.