Guyana- born and bred Kevin Headley has returned home from the United States of America (USA) to roar with Guyana’s Golden Jaguars on Sunday in their 2010 World Cup qualifying second round encounter at the National Stadium at Providence.
The midfielder yesterday got his chance to show his spots among the Golden Jaguars at one of the team’s practice sessions at the Thomas Lands Young men’s Christian Association (YMCA) groumnd ahead of Sunday’s must-win encounter.
Headley, now 30, was born and raised in Guyana but migrated 18 years ago.
He now has a chance of fulfilling his dream of one day playing in the World Cup.
“I never thought that at 30, I’d get the chance to fulfill my dream of playing in a World Cup match but I think this team certainly has a chance and I would like to be a part of that,” he said
This, however, is not the first time Headley has returned.
“ I came back to play on the national team in 1996 but it was much different and in no way as organized as it is now and me being here is a testament of how well the team is doing,” he said.
After leaving again in 1996, Headley was awarded an academic scholarship to the Bucknell University and played for their division one team during his four-year stay at the university.
He currently lives in Columbus, Ohio and plays for the Columbus Wolves Soccer Club.
But how did he get here?
“Ever since I was here in 1996, I have been following the success of the Golden Jaguars in all the Caribbean tournaments and they have really been doing well,” he said.
After his first practice session, Headley said:“I think it’s really good that the team [Golden Jaguars] can attract many overseas players like myself, who are willing to come back and compete for their home team.”
Headley added that he was impressed with the calibre of the players and the level of commitment and camaraderie of the players and coaching staff.
“Although it is good to have overseas players come in and compete, I think that all credit should be given to the local players who have managed to so far gain some recognition for their country and it is through their success, along with the coaching staff and the local federation that all this is possible,” he said.
“I am very encouraged by the positive attitude and the commitment of the team and I hope that the Guyanese fans will come and support the team on Sunday because the guys are fighting not just for the win but for themselves but for all Guyanese everywhere,” he added.
He also said that he hoped to contribute to the team in terms of leadership as well as focus and mental preparation. He said that he will bring to the table, four years of collegiate soccer as well as experience in a few international competitions including the Royal Mail Cup in Portsmouth England which his team won.
As far as him playing in Sunday’s match, Technical Director of the GFF Jamaal Shabbazz said:“He has travelled a far way to be here and we are welcoming whatever talent he has to bring to the table.”
