Oakville teen suits up for Jamaican national team

An Oakville teenager is taking the field with Jamaica’s top young female soccer players at just 13 years of age.

Phyllicia Brown, a member of the Oakville Soccer Club, is suiting up with the Jamaican National Girls U15 team at the Concacaf Girls’ U15 Championship in Costa Rica.

Brown, who is playing above her regular age group, and Jamaica wrapped up group play Thursday (August 8), finishing in third place in Group A with a 1-2 record.

Jamaica was scheduled to play El Salvador in a playoff on Friday (August 9).

“Congratulations (Phyllicia). What an incredible achievement being called up to the U15 Jamaican National Team,” Chris Grierson, senior technical director at the Oakville Soccer Club, said of Brown in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

A HUGE SHOUTOUT to OSC's OPDL player Phyllicia Brown, who was recently selected for the GU15 Jamaican National Team!

Phyllicia is currently playing in the ongoing Concacaf Girls’ U-15 Championship, which is wrapping up the group stage today.

We are so proud! #GoOakvilleWild pic.twitter.com/KjfDbSJLRS

— Oakville Soccer Club (@Oakville_Soccer) August 8, 2024

The Ontario Player Development League player’s game is getting noticed and it’s only the start of big things for her, believes Grierson.

“Your dedication, talent, and hard work have truly paid off, and this is just the beginning of an exciting journey,” he added.

Grierson hopes Brown, who has played in the Oakville program for the last three seasons, enjoys the experience.

“Representing Jamica on such a prestigious stage is a testament to your skill and perseverance,” he said. “Keep shining, stay focused, and enjoy every moment of this amazing opportunity.

“We’re all incredibly proud of you and your achievement. Wishing you all the best and lots of success ahead.”