Phillip Williams steps down as Arnett Gardens head coach

Phillip Williams has stepped down as head coach of Arnett Gardens with immediate effect, the club confirmed following his decision on Wednesday, July 8.

Williams, appointed in June 2025, told Observer Online that personal matters prompted his exit. “I have decided to resign from my position at the club. My reasons are entirely personal and have nothing to do with the management or the supporters,” said Williams. “The management has supported me fully throughout the season and I am very grateful for that. I wish the club every success going forward,” he added.

He succeeded Xavier Gilbert and steered Arnett Gardens to seventh place on 58 points, falling two points short of the top-six playoff berth despite victories in their final four matches. Across 39 fixtures, the team recorded 17 wins, seven draws and 15 defeats.

Williams built his reputation at St Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) and has also held coaching roles at Tivoli Gardens and Portmore United in recent years.

Jerome Waite’s departure from Tivoli Gardens has fuelled talk about who might take over from Williams. Waite previously guided Arnett Gardens to three championships.

Arnett Gardens did not respond to requests for comment.