Dear Editor,

The Reggae Girlz has made a historic qualification to the knockout stage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. It is indeed the proudest moment in Jamaica’s football history.

Their hard-fought and determined draw against powerhouse Brazil is most commendable. I could not help shedding a few tears of joy.

That the entire nation is proud and cheering for them.

I can never tire of telling them how much their presence on the world stage means to Jamaica and the pride we all feel when we see you donned in the national colours.

We see that dreams do come true.

The Girlz are a source of inspiration for Jamaica and fully deserving of our full support.

I am happy that my Government has been able to support the Jamaica Football Federation and the women’s programme on yet another successful World Cup campaign.

Our girls, particularly the Reggae Girlz, the Sunshine Girls (the national netballers who are competing in the World Netball World Cup in South Africa), and the women’s volleyball team (which won the Cazova Championship on the weekend) have made us very proud and have given us such a special gift as we celebrate our nation’s 61st anniversary of Independence.

We are proud of them.

Olivia Grange

Minister of Sport