“We are really excited for Jazmin to have this opportunity,” said Head Coach Diego Bocanegra. “To compete on the international level after her freshman year, is a well-deserved call-up. We look for big things on the international level, as well as the collegiate level from Jazmin.”
Grant was a force to be reckoned with last season for Houston, finishing second on the team in goals, assists, and points. The freshman notched five goals and five assists for a total of 15 points during the 2017 season. The Texas native is a two-time American Rookie of the Week recipient, closing the season with American All-Rookie Team honors.
“It makes me feel really good and have more confidence in my playing,” said Grant. “My dad has always wanted me to do this and it’s cool to go out and play for his country.”
At the conclusion of team camp players will be selected for the U-20 Jamaican National Team that will vie for a spot in the 2018 U-20 World Cup in France. World Cup qualifiers are slated for Jan. 18-28 at the Ato Bolden Stadium in Couva, Trinidad and Tobago.
The 18-year-old freshman, who registered five goals and five assists in her debut season at the University of Houston last season, cites the international opportunity at this level as a learning curve to aid in the further development of her career.
“I am happy and excited about this opportunity. My dad’s [Maurice] side of the family is from Jamaica and he always thought it would be so cool for me to represent Jamaica, and so I felt like it would be fun.
“At first I had doubts about it because I didn’t know if I was good enough to play at the international level right now, but then I thought even if I am not good enough, it would help my skills and help me to grow,” she told the Jamaica Observer.
