What began as a childhood interest has developed into a passion and what could ultimately become a professional career in football.

Nineteen-year-old Joshua Grant, son of Jamaica-born Denise Grant, mayor of Lauderhill in Florida, has joined the senior national football team as a goalkeeper.

“It’s an incredible feeling to be part of the senior national team setup. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity and for the federation’s trust in me. Representing Jamaica at the highest level is something I take great pride in, and I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and contributing to the team,” Grant told Observer Online on Wednesday.

He said when he was called upon to be a part of the team, he was not only in disbelief, but he was excited about the opportunity.

“It was a mixture of excitement, gratitude, and disbelief. Being called up for such an important match against Mexico in the quarterfinals makes the opportunity even more special. This isn’t just a friendly; it’s a decisive game with a lot at stake. To know that the coaching staff and federation have enough confidence in me to include me in this environment is a tremendous honour,” he shared.

Joshua Grant

Grant’s interest in football began at the age of seven.

“I’ve had the opportunity to develop through the academies of Inter Miami CF and the New York Red Bulls. I currently play professionally for FC Naples in USL League One. I’ve also represented Jamaica at the U17 and U20 levels, as well as receiving opportunities with the senior national team,” said Grant.

“My interest in football developed quite naturally. When I was younger, I remember seeing a group of people playing at a local park. I immediately became interested and asked my mother to enrol me in a soccer program. From that moment, my love for the game continued to grow.”

The Florida-born Grant said he enjoys the pressure and the responsibility that comes with the game.

“As a goalkeeper, I love the responsibility that comes with being in a position where one moment can make a difference in the outcome of a game. The adrenaline, intensity, and opportunity to make an impact when the team needs it most are what I enjoy about the position.

My overall objective is to contribute to the team in any way possible and take full advantage of this opportunity. I want to continue developing, earning the trust of the coaching staff, and establishing myself within the senior national team. One of my biggest ambitions is to make my senior international debut and eventually become Jamaica’s number one goalkeeper. I have tremendous respect for Andre Blake and what he has accomplished for the country, and I hope to one day follow in those footsteps and make my own mark on Jamaican football,” Grant said.