Excelsior players inspired by World Cup Trophy experience

Excelsior High School players Shylah Francis and Kiona Tulloch believe the FIFA Women's World Cup Trophy tour will inspire young players like themselves to be part of future national senior women's programme.

The trophy travelled through sections of the island yesterday during its 24-hour stop in Jamaica, and Francis and Tulloch described the experience of seeing it as an honour.

Jamaica was the 18th stop on the tour that started in Kingston, went to St Jago High in St Catherine, Ocho Rios High in St Ann and concluded in Montego Bay, St James.

The occasion was a welcomed sight for Francis and Tulloch, who, with select members of Excelsior, got to take pictures with the Cup two days before their ISSA/Tip Friendly Society schoolgirls' football semifinal.

Francis said seeing the trophy up close has renewed her goals of competing at the highest level one day.

"Just being that close to the trophy gives a sense of honour, and it was a wonderful experience," Francis told STAR Sports. "It makes me want it even more. It's definitely a goal and a dream, which I hope to achieve in the future."

For Tulloch, while grateful for the once-in-a-lifetime moment, it has fuelled her desire to hoist the trophy.

"It's good to see it, but I would like to hold it. Seeing it doesn't do much for me. I have to hold it," Tulloch said.

Excelsior will face Garvey Maceo High on Thursday at the Ashenheim Stadium, and Francis believes that the experience has only fuelled their desire to complete their campaign as champions.

"I think it inspires me and my team as well, to go out there and give our best," Francis said. "It is a sport we love, a sport we are passionate about. It gives us a sense of longing for it."

Excelsior boast talent Shaneil Buckley, who got called up to her first senior national camp in November and is currently on duty with the Under-20 Reggae Girlz competing in the Concacaf Under-20 Women's Championship preliminary round in Nicaragua.