Swaby to suit up for Sky Blue in Challenge Cup

Reggae Girl Chantelle Swaby has signed for Sky Blue FC on a short-term contract for the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) Challenge Cup tournament.

Swaby was drafted 29th overall by the New Jersey-based club in January ahead of the 2020 NWSL season, which was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. The Challenge Cup was announced in May as a one-off tournament signifying the league's return to action, which starts this Saturday in Utah.

The 21-year-old said that she can't wait to compete in the upcoming tournament and is thankful for the faith shown in her by the coaching staff.

Extremely grateful

"I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and I am excited to be part of the team," Swaby said on the club's website. "It has been great getting to know the other girls and I can't wait to represent Sky Blue. I want to thank the coaches for believing in me and I'm looking forward to being out on the pitch in Utah for the NWSL Challenge Cup."

Head coach Freya Coombe said that her work during preseason has rewarded her with a spot on the roster.

"After being drafted in January, she has been competing every day at practice, demonstrating her ability to play at the professional level. She has elite tournament experience from representing Jamaica at the FIFA Women's World Cup in France, and shows a good level of maturity and experience for such a young player," Coombe said on the club's website.

While Swaby will be preparing for her first game in the tournament against the OL Reign, fellow national defender Konya Plummer will not be participating in the tournament as her team, the Orlando Pride, withdrew from the competition because of positive COVID-19 testing among players and staff.