General Secretary of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Dennis Chung has heaped praise on national representative Jody Brown for her latest off-field accomplishment.
Last weekend Brown graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in Humanities and Chung believes the move augurs well for the future of the talented forward.
“I am very happy as I think that it’s important that the players ensure that they get a solid education. Irrespective of what you achieve on the pitch, it’s important that you have a solid education as it expands your ability to think. I think where sports is now, from the professional point of view, a lot of the better athletes do have, at least, a first degree,” Chung shared.
Brown, on her Instagram page, posted the following message on her latest accomplishment: “Four years of unforgettable memories, lessons, and lifelong friendships. Thank you Florida State University”.
The now 22-year-old made her debut for the senior Reggae Girlz at the age of 16 and has represented the national team at two FIFA World Cups, 2019 and 2023. Chung shared that having a degree while playing is an ‘insurance policy’ and added that since her arrival to the national set-up, Brown has been a vital member of the squad.
“Sports is really a thinking game as it’s not only physical. I’m really happy for her and it’s also an insurance policy. When you’re playing sports, anything can go wrong and it’s important that players actually do this. I think Jody has a great career ahead of her and she’s been an exceptional player with a lot of promise,” Chung stated.
With the Reggae Girlz set to lock horns against South American giants Brazil in two-match friendly international on June 1 and 4, Chung is eyeing a return to the fold for Brown who he believes, if given the chance, will display her admirable skill set against the world number ten ranked team.
“I suspect that she will be playing in the upcoming friendlies and I would love to see her return to international football. That is the level where people really notice you, so I’m hoping that she will be back and be able to display the talent that she displayed before,” Chung added.