Following a historically challenging 18-0 defeat against Jamaica, Dominica’s Senior Women’s National Football Team is undergoing intensive reconstruction ahead of their critical CONCACAF qualifier against Guyana on February 27th. The coaching staff has implemented a comprehensive training regimen addressing multiple deficiencies exposed during their opening match.
Assistant Coach Sheldon Casimir provided transparent assessment of the team’s current state, acknowledging Jamaica’s formidable quality while identifying specific improvement areas. “Despite the devastating result, our defensive organization—paradoxically our strongest aspect against Jamaica—requires immediate enhancement,” Casimir stated. “We’re prioritizing physical conditioning, mental awareness, and defensive coordination to narrow the gap against elite opponents.”
The team faces unique logistical challenges with six overseas-based players joining limited preparation time. Casimir emphasized the importance of developing team cohesion: “We’re utilizing these additional days to integrate our overseas contingent and establish effective on-field communication patterns.”
Technical preparation has been hampered by insufficient match footage for analysis. The coaching staff relies primarily on recent tournament recordings and the Jamaica match for tactical insights. “Ideal preparation would involve numerous practice matches with comprehensive video review,” Casimir explained. “Unfortunately, our current development phase doesn’t permit this luxury.”
Psychological recovery represents another critical focus area. The coaching staff acknowledges the demoralizing effect of their record defeat and is implementing morale-building strategies. Casimir highlighted the need for professional psychological support: “We expect elite performance without corresponding mental training. Maintaining positive mindset progression is essential—being better today than yesterday, and better tomorrow than today.”
The team departs for Guyana on February 23rd with renewed determination. The Dominica Football Association continues rallying domestic and international support as the women’s squad pursues their qualification objectives despite significant competitive challenges.