THE REGGAE GIRLZ

IN 1998, the Jamaica Reggae Boyz made history as the first team from the English Caribbean to reach the World Cup. More than two decades later, the Reggae Girlz echoed this achievement, and by 2023, they had solidified their status as Jamaica’s most successful national football team.

The Reggae Girlz’ journey to the World Cup was marked by resilience and triumph over adversity. Despite early controversies and a coaching change, the team excelled in the Caribbean leg of the qualifiers. A highlight was their 5-1 victory over the Dominican Republic, led by captain Khadija Shaw. Under new coach Lorne Donaldson, the Girlz secured crucial wins against Mexico and Haiti, earning a place in the World Cup after a decisive 1-0 victory over Costa Rica.

At the World Cup, the Reggae Girlz continued to defy expectations. With no practice matches and formidable opponents in Group F, they faced title contenders France, Brazil, and Panama. Their historic first point came from a resilient defence against France, resulting in a 0-0 draw. Despite the absence of their captain Shaw in the second game, they secured their first World Cup win with a 1-0 victory over Panama, thanks to Allison Swaby’s goal.

The team’s determination shone through in their final group match against Brazil, where they held the South American giants to a draw, advancing to the knockout stage. Although their journey ended in the round of 16 with a narrow loss to Colombia, the Reggae Girlz’ performance was a testament to their tenacity and skill.

For their exploits and for their show of resilience at each time of the asking, the team of Blackwood, the Swaby sisters, Spencer, Wiltshire, Vyan Sampson, Van Zanten, Drew Spence, Jody Brown, Trudi Carter, Shaw, Peyton McNamara, Kameron Simmonds, Tiffany Cameron, Atlanta Primus, Cheyna Matthews, Sydney Schneider, Solai Washington, Konya Plummer, Havana Solaun, Paige Bailey-Gayle, Kayla McKenna, and Liya Njeri N’Day Brooks are deserving of any honour coming to them.

The Reggae Girlz’ journey to the World Cup was marked by resilience and triumph over adversity.

Darren Mitchell (left), RJRGLEANER, digital product manager, presents Crystal Walters, team manager for the Reggae Girls with the Special award for Sports.

Team booming with joy at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium in Australia.

Delegation photo at Team-based camp in Victorian state football centre Melbourne Australia.

Team photo in Perth Australia.