The Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) has confirmed that the Manning Cup and DaCosta Cup competitions will resume later this month, following a pause caused by the passage of Hurricane Melissa and its severe impact on several Western Jamaica schools.

In a statement on Friday, ISSA announced that the Manning Cup will restart at the Round of 16 stage on Friday, November 28, 2025, while the DaCosta Cup will resume a day later on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

According to the governing body, the decision was reached after concluding extensive deliberations on the safe resumption of inter-schools sporting events in the aftermath of the hurricane. ISSA said the consultations involved participating schools, sponsors, match officials, and its broader membership.

“Despite the impact of Hurricane Melissa on a number of our member schools, including some currently engaged in our competitions, there was an overwhelming sentiment from these schools—supported by other stakeholders—that we resume our competitions,” the release stated.

ISSA emphasized that the return of school sports will play a crucial role in the physical and emotional recovery of student-athletes affected by the storm. The association plans to incorporate hurricane relief initiatives into upcoming events, encouraging involvement from stakeholders and the general public to support impacted schools.

Alongside the football restart dates, ISSA confirmed that the full revised schedules and formats for Netball (U19/U16), Basketball (U19/U16 Boys), and both senior football competitions will be published by Thursday, November 20, 2025.

However, the organization has opted to delay the start of its Junior Football Competitions, pushing their kickoff to the Easter Term in January 2026.

ISSA reiterated its commitment to member schools during this challenging period, noting that providing structured sporting opportunities will be vital as students work toward regaining a sense of normalcy.

The association added that it remains dedicated to ensuring competitions are conducted safely while supporting ongoing recovery efforts across affected communities.