At just 14 years old, Caymanian footballer Harper Nelson proved she could play at a senior level during the CONCACAF Road to W Gold Cup.
While Nelson has represented Cayman at a youth level, on Monday, 25 Sept., she played for the first time with the women’s team, in front of friends and family in the match against Anguilla at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex.
“It was honestly just a great experience,” Nelson told the Compass at the press conference after the game. “The whole team made it super easy and super welcoming for me.”
Not only did Nelson take part, but she also contributed to Cayman’s first goal in the match, with a key assist to Shayana Windsor in the 34th minute.
Nelson, once a gymnast, has been racking up a lot of time representing her country, having just played in the CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Championship Qualifiers last month.
Newly appointed women’s head coach Michael Johnson told the Compass that he was thrilled with how several youngsters, including Nelson, performed during Monday’s game.
“She is 14 years old,” he said. “We have many others around that age group… and to play against a proper senior team out there and really stamp their authority on the game, that’s to be commended.”
The midfielder has established herself as the future of Cayman football, having already been a part of title-winners in the domestic leagues. Nelson said she looks forward to more matches played alongside her countrywomen.
“They are all great role models on the field and off the field,” she added. “Their words, leading me, guiding me with their play, and how they bring me up to their level… it’s nice to build off [my teammates].”
No doubt her future in football is bright, with Johnson confirming that the team will stay intact, giving Nelson will have another opportunity at the senior level in October when Cayman plays Curaçao.
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