Reggae Girlz name 18 for CAC Games 2026 in Dominican Republic

Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz have named an 18-player squad for the Central American and Caribbean Games in the Dominican Republic later this month, marking the country’s third appearance at the women’s tournament after 2018 and 2023.

Head coach Hubert Busby unveiled the group at a media briefing and said Coach Letman will take charge on the sidelines, with Busby remaining in an advisory role because of family commitments. Coach Tamara will also work with the camp through the Games.

The Girlz open Group play against Colombia on July 29, face Puerto Rico on July 31, and meet Mexico on August 2. The top two sides in each group advance to the semi-finals, with medal matches to follow.

Goalkeepers named are Liya Brooks and Mariah Scott. The remainder of the squad comprises Jordyn Brooks, Akela Johnson, Dejanae Anderson, Jaleah Cox-McPherson, Kalila Daley, Chanae Ashley, Lola Nesbeth, Peyton McNamara, Gabby Richards, Destiny Powell, Samantha Louie, Myah McDurmont, Ricshai Walker, Malia Johnson, Phoenix White and Alyssa Stevenson.

Busby stressed that the selection falls outside a full FIFA international window, so clubs and schools are not obliged to release players. As a result, several established senior names are unavailable. He described the group as largely young, drawn from Jamaica’s under-17 and under-20 pathways, and said rivals such as Mexico, Colombia and Costa Rica are also fielding under-23-heavy sides.

Building that under-23 pool, he said, is deliberate — including talks this week with director of football Mr Burt — so players gain more international exposure before senior World Cup windows. Jamaica’s recent senior fixtures have mostly been World Cup qualifiers, limiting chances for teenagers unless they force their way in on merit.

Asked about pathways into the October and November campaigns, Busby said the Games offer a chance to medal, gain experience and push for senior consideration. He highlighted Liya Brooks as a leadership figure in goal, praised Peyton McNamara’s recovery and form after the Panama series, and pointed to Destiny Powell, Dejanae Anderson — a Spanish Town product who was in the Panama camp after starring at Arkansas — and Ricshai Walker, who has played professionally in Costa Rica and drawn interest from Mexican clubs.

On player release, Busby said little can be done while NCAA and professional rules allow schools and clubs to retain athletes. He cited Chanel Buckley’s move from Daytona College to Florida State, where campus settling and medicals take priority, and noted NWSL and other pro sides in season or preseason will not free players such as Mimi Van Zanten of San Diego.

Letman, who has worked with the under-17 and under-20 programmes and attended senior sessions in Kingston and Montego Bay, said the coaching staff is operating as one unit. He expects the group to show character with an eye on the 2027 World Cup pathway while Busby monitors progress from afar.

Busby also confirmed Jamaica is exploring two preparation matches in the October FIFA window (5–13 October) ahead of the November World Cup qualifier against Costa Rica, with details expected in the coming weeks.

Opening the session, Busby offered thoughts and prayers for victims of a boat accident in Guyana earlier that day.