Seven chosen youngsters will be accompanied by Coach Altimont ‘Freddie’ Butler and Manager Clyde Jureidini, invited by Rush Canada Soccer Academy to compete alongside them at the world-renowned Dr. Pepper Dallas Cup Youth Tournament from March 18‐27, 2016 in Dallas, Texas, USA. Five of them departed the island this morning with Coach Butler, while the remaining two who are completing their Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) exams today will depart later this evening with mr. Jureidini.
In mid-December 2015, there were many players selected, but for an array of reasons ranging from Champs inclusions, lack of passport or US visas, examinations, to lack of finances, the selection options were reduced sadly as the desires grew.
Weekly training sessions at the Harbour View football stadium limited selection even further to Kingston and St. Andrew residents, as time and logistics could not accommodate a wider reach in a timely manner on the first effort.
RUSH Canada Soccer Academy Under-14 squad of eleven players are the authorized registered team at the tournament, and invited the Jamaican players who will be jointly representing from the new Rush Jamaica Academy organization.
The seven Jamaican players are:
- Ricardo Laing (GK) from Cooreville FC
- Duncan McKenzie (left attacker) from Real Mona FC
- Matthew Bell (midfielder) from Santos FC
- Shacqkeil Campbell (forward) from Alman Woodford FC
- Rojaughn Joseph (wingback / midfielder) from HVFC
- Kellijah Morgan (forward) from HVFC
- Jahvarie Fletcher (midfielder) from HVFC
We thank the parents, families, football clubs, friends, sponsors, schools and communities who stepped forward to assist these youngsters in making this historic trip.
Representing those who could not travel this time: Kristopher, Tyrese, Tajay, Damion, Akeeno, Baggio and Jaden.
Photo: RUSH Canada Squad & initial RUSH Jamaica squad