Jamaican Footballer Altimont Butler Honored In South Florida

Jamaican football legend Altimont Butler was honored recently during the 19th staging of True Blue Weekend in South Florida. The event, hosted by the Jamaica College Old Boys Association of Florida, recognized Butler for his contribution to Jamaican football as both a player and coach.

The recognition took place during the halftime ceremony at the annual True Blue SoccerFest at Vizcaya Park. Organizers highlighted Butler’s role in helping shape Jamaican football across several generations through his achievements on the field and his continued work in youth development.

A Football Journey That Started In Port Royal

Born and raised in Port Royal, Butler developed a passion for football from an early age. Before representing his school, he was already competing in men’s league football as a teenager. He later attended Dunoon Technical High School, where he established himself as one of the island’s leading schoolboy football players.

During his years at Dunoon Technical, Butler finished among the top scorers in Manning Cup football on two occasions. His performances helped open doors to the Jamaican national program at a young age.

At 17 years old, Butler made his debut for Jamaica’s senior national football team and scored his first international goal in only his second appearance.

Making History Overseas

Following his graduation from high school in 1987, Butler became the first Jamaican footballer to sign a professional contract overseas directly after leaving school. He started his overseas career in Guadeloupe before later moving into European football.

Butler also became the first Jamaican player to compete in France’s Ligue 1 and later the first Jamaican to play professionally in Portugal. During his international career with Jamaica, he earned 69 caps and scored 12 goals.

His football career also included success in the United States while attending Southern New Hampshire University. Butler earned All American honors three times and later entered the university’s Hall of Fame. He still holds the school’s single season points record.

Role In Jamaica’s World Cup History

Butler was part of the Reggae Boyz squad that helped Jamaica qualify for the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, marking the country’s first appearance at the tournament.

In addition to his role as a player, Butler also assisted communication within the national setup because of his ability to speak multiple languages including English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Norwegian. This allowed him to support then head coach René Simões during the campaign.

He later added another milestone to his career by becoming the first Jamaican player drafted into Major League Soccer (MLS) and the first Jamaican to score in the league.

Continuing His Impact Through Coaching

After retiring from professional football in 1998, Butler transitioned into coaching and player development. He won three state championships in New Jersey before coaching professionally in Norway. He also spent time working with Chelsea FC in the United Kingdom.

Butler later served as assistant coach of Jamaica’s Under 20 national team in 2010 before being appointed head coach of Jamaica’s Under 17 national team in 2025.

He also became the first Jamaican to qualify for the FIFA World Cup as both a player and coach, adding another historic achievement to his football career.

Recognition During True Blue Weekend

The annual True Blue Weekend event continues to serve as a gathering point for members of the Jamaican community in South Florida. The celebration includes football, entertainment, alumni activities, and community engagement.

This year’s staging featured invitational football matches involving Jamaican high school alumni associations along with an All Star Old School Boys match and other activities.

Organizers also used the event to recognize individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of Jamaican football over the years.

The 19th Annual True Blue Weekend was held in Miramar, Florida, on May 1 and 2, 2026.

Plaque Tribute For Altimont Butler

During the ceremony, Butler received a commemorative plaque recognizing his years of service and achievement in football.

Plaque Wording

The Jamaica College Old Boys of Florida (JCOBAFL) proudly honors Altimont “Freddie” Butler at the 19th Annual True Blue SoccerFest. A trailblazer since Dunoon Technical, you were the first Jamaican to sign professionally overseas directly from high school. A three-time All-American and 1998 World Cup icon, you are the first Jamaican to reach the World Cup as both player and coach. We salute your global impact and enduring legacy in the sport.