Marlo Sweatman was there from the beginning, and her role in Jamaica’s success in historically qualifying for the Fifa Women’s World Cup in France cannot be overstated.

True to her nature, however she prefers to be modest about it.

“Everyone has their own role on the team and everyone is equally important, from team captain to first sub off the bench, we all matter.

“Thankfully, I’ve been able to be a part of the starting 11, so I would say that was my role, but it was just as important as everyone else’s role,” she said.

Sweatman, a central midfielder deployed just ahead of the defenders, said the Reggae Girlz’ World Cup qualification was not just about the football on the pitch, but critically, too, from the deep character of the players individually and as a team.

“The secret (to the success) is that no matter what, if we put our minds to it we can achieve it… we had a goal, a dream, and did everything in our power to achieve it,” she said from Hungary, where she has taken up a contract with first division outfit St Mihaly.

Sweatman, 24, says the fairy tale of qualifying for the World Cup, for her, will remain that even as she prepares to take to the game’s grandest stage.

“I have not got over this fairy tale and I don’t think I ever will,” she quipped.

Sweatman, who was born and raised in the USA, said the opening France preparation camp in January and another set for later this month indicate that the programme is on the correct course.

“Yes, I believe we are right on track, especially with these friendlies coming up (as) this going to be very important for us as a group. But we are definitely on the right track,” she opined.

As part of the upcoming camp, the Girlz will engage World Cup-bound Chile in two matches on February 28 in Kingston and March 3 in Montego Bay to simulate their opening match against Brazil on June 9.

Sweatman, who qualifies to represent the country through her Jamaican mother Beverley Sweatman, has her own ideas what the approach in the two-match friendly series ought to be.

“I think as competitive players we are always looking to win. But with winning aside, I think we need to just focus on ourselves as a team, how we play as a team, what did we do well, and what can we improve on. I think we really need to play our game, and then after, break it down and focus on things we can improve,” she reasoned.

Looking at Jamaica’s France Group C opponents — Brazil, Australia and Italy — Sweatman does not appear intimidated, but suggests instead, “We just have to play our game, play the way we know how to play and that’ll take care of it.”

For young girls wanting to get involved in the sport, Sweatman offers words of advice.

“I would say that nothing is impossible. If you have a dream believe in it… no matter how big, how crazy, how impossible your dream may seem. And never give up,” said the Virginia native.

— Sean Williams