ECNL Regional League standout Jhelysse Anthony has earned the opportunity to play at the national team level through a lot of hard work, determination, and talent.
Anthony was called up to the T&T U-15 national team in 2019 for a tournament in Mexico but those plans were derailed by the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Over two years later she has been given another opportunity. She’s received a call-up to the U-17 national team for a tournament in the Dominican Republic and will also be part of a camp with the U-20 national team.
“It's an amazing opportunity to be able to play for the country my parents grew up in, a culture my family embraces, and overall, an amazing experience,” Anthony said. “As a player, being able to reach the national team level is something I've worked hard for and will continue to work towards.”
Anthony joined Internationals SC in 2021 for the fall high school season. She’s a member of ISC’s U18/19 ECNL Regional League squad.
“I think that the ECNL offers a high level of competition, great opportunities, continual development with quality coaching, and welcomed challenges,” Anthony added. “Internationals SC has a culture fostered in competition and progress. From an outside perspective, ISC has a strong style of play where players are able to succeed. Entering the club, very early on, I saw myself beginning to push myself more based on the environment alone, and I believe that too is part of the style ISC teaches its players to embrace.”
She has enjoyed working with several ISC coaches and admits that the experience has helped her grow and develop as a player.
“I spent a lot of games and practices with Coach Zdravko (Popovic),” Anthony continued. “Zdravko really sets the bar for competition and passion for the game. Currently, I play with Coach Jared (Rose) and his ability to connect with players really helps player development. Both coaches are very supportive of their players and are there to give guidance whenever needed.”
“We have thoroughly enjoyed having Jhelysse be a part of Internationals SC,” Rose said. “She fits within our club perfectly with her dedication, focus, respect for others, and competitiveness. All these driving her to be the best player/person she can be. She has the potential to reach a high level and as we work together, we will do all we can to help her reach her goals.”
A national team call-up is just the beginning for the soon-to-be Bay Village HS graduate.
“One of my significant short-term goals is definitely to raise my level of play, right now to the national team level, and keep a competitive streak going,” Anthony concluded. “In regards to long-term goals, my next step is playing at the collegiate level and furthering both my academic and soccer career.”
Photo Credit: Shylah Quast