SAO PAULO, Brazil — The young Reggae Boyz ushered in the New Year in a quiet fashion, watching from the Traffic Football Academy as loud sounds exploded in the distance and burst into a kaleidoscope of fireworks.

A somber mood emerged over the players as they watched, probably reminiscing about what it would have been like at home, thousands of miles away.

For most of these 16 year-olds, it would have been the first time that they have actually witnessed the start of a new year away from home.

The Academy, usually abuzz with activity, was too quiet for comfort, as they entire staff and academy players had vacated the premises to be with their families and loved ones. Only a few security guards were on hand.

Jevani Bown of Milton Keyes Don FC (formerly Wimbledon), had left a few hours earlier for the airport en route to the England.

But as typical Jamaicans, the young Reggae Boyz build their own vibes, deejaying while applauding each effort, whether good or bad.

The fireworks witnessed in the skies of Sao Paulo might not have been anything close to the ones in Dubai or London, but it was enough for a team isolated in a rural section of Sao Paulo called Porto Feliz.

But earlier in the day, it was as usual for the young Reggae Boyz as they prepared for the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship at home.

They got up early as usual and had a strengthening session in the gym, utilising basically all the equipment from weights, ball, bicycle and balancing tools. Then it was unto the pool for some recuperation and rehabilitation.

Yesterday was a relaxing day for the Boyz as they were given the day off — the first time since arriving in Brazil on December 15.