Trinidad and Tobago’s under-17 women’s national football team has finalized its 21-player roster for the upcoming 2026 CONCACAF Championship qualifiers, featuring a significant contingent of nine overseas-based athletes. The squad, unveiled by the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) on January 18, will compete in Group F against Barbados, El Salvador, and host nation Curaçao from January 24 to February 1, following Guadeloupe’s withdrawal due to financial limitations.
Head coach Ayana Russell will lead the young Soca Warriors into tournament action beginning with a January 24 opener against Curaçao at the FFK Willemstad Stadium, followed by matches against Barbados (January 28) and El Salvador (February 1). The qualifying format includes six groups, with group winners and the two best second-place teams advancing to join Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the United States in the final championship round.
The overseas contingent brings international experience from various development systems, including Sanni Wilson (Florida United), Gianna Changar (United Futbol Academy), defender Layla Gregoire, Shiyah Matthews (LA Surf), Giuliana Meyer (Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals), Jade Jones (FC Stars Blue), goalkeeper Saiya Smith, plus Canadian-based midfielder Chelsea John and attacker Torie Jean-Jacques.
Domestic talent features prominently with players like Rori Gittens, Sydney Pollard, and versatile Five Rivers Secondary standout Hackeemar Goodridge. The complete roster includes goalkeepers Alexia Dolland and Zofia Richards; defenders Mateja Leben, Gyasi Lewis, Jessia Nesbitt, and Alia Toussaint; midfielders Khloe Kirton and Zyesha Potts; and forwards Shemaiah Toussaint.
Coach Russell acknowledged preparation challenges but expressed confidence in her team’s cohesion: ‘The star of the team is the team. Every struggle and challenge that comes our way, I see the team developing dynamics that will become our biggest strength.’ She emphasized the importance of mental preparation and holistic player development, noting significant improvements in technical and tactical aspects while stressing the need for better developmental systems for young footballers in Trinidad and Tobago.
Beyond competitive success, Russell highlighted the importance of mental health for both players and staff, stating: ‘Success for me will be seeing everybody deal with the pressures on the field and behind the scenes.’ The team departs for Curaçao on January 22 ahead of their tournament opener.