Reggae Girlz captain Khadija Shaw pays heartfelt tribute to Cedella Marley's impact on women's football in Jamaica

Khadija ‘'Bunny” Shaw, the senior Reggae Girlz captain, has expressed profound gratitude and admiration for Cedella Marley's incredible contributions to women's football in Jamaica.

In a heartfelt tribute posted on Saturday, Shaw praised Marley's unwavering dedication over the past decade, which has played a pivotal role in establishing a thriving women's football program in the country.

Marley, who served as the Global Ambassador for Jamaica's women's football program, recently announced her resignation. She cited the current situation involving the senior Reggae Girlz World Cup team and the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) as the reason for her departure. Marley expressed disappointment in the federation's lack of receptiveness to her form of support, leading to her immediate resignation.

Marley's relentless support

Shaw, who has risen from humble beginnings to enjoy a successful professional career at Women's Super League (WSL) club Manchester City, paid tribute to Marley for giving her and other young girls the belief to pursue their dreams.

In her heartfelt message, Shaw acknowledged Marley's relentless support through the years, highlighting her tenacity in raising funds for the Reggae Girlz. Marley's efforts led to consecutive FIFA Women's World Cup appearances in 2019 and 2023 for the Jamaican national team, making history for the country.

Shaw recalled a challenging period when the JFF had cut the women's football program due to a lack of funding, resulting in over three years of inactivity and removal from the FIFA Women's World Rankings. However, Marley's intervention in 2014 breathed new life into the program, allowing the Reggae Girlz to reach new heights.

Words of determination

In her tribute, Shaw quoted Marley's words of determination: "They said y'all couldn't, and I said tell me why. When they said y'all wouldn't, I said watch me." She praised Marley's dedication and willingness to provide opportunities for young girls to represent Jamaica at the highest level, leading to the team's impressive FIFA ranking of 40.

Despite her resignation from the role of Global Ambassador, Marley has pledged to continue supporting the Reggae Girlz' journey through the Football is Freedom initiative. The Bob and Rita Marley Foundation has also severed ties with the Jamaica Football Federation as it reassesses its priorities.

Khadija 'Bunny' Shaw's heartfelt tribute serves as a testament to Cedella Marley's enduring legacy and her invaluable contributions to women's football in Jamaica.