Reggae Girl Jody Brown is set to transition from collegiate to professional football after signing a three-year contract with reigning Portuguese champions Benfica.
The former Florida State standout expressed her pride and excitement about achieving her lifelong dream.
“I am proud and honoured to sign my first professional contract with a big institution such as Benfica. Being a professional has always been my dream since I started playing in Jamaica,” Brown said.
JFF president praises Brown
Michael Ricketts, President of the Jamaica Football Federation, praised Brown and commended Benfica for securing her services. “This signing augurs well for Jody’s personal development and the development of the national team. Jody is a national treasure, she is young but very experienced, and Benfica has done well to get her signature. I hope she scores countless goals,” Ricketts stated.
During her tenure at Florida State University, Brown helped the team capture four consecutive Atlantic Coast Championships (ACC) Women’s Soccer titles and the NCAA Division 1 titles in 2021 and 2023. She has also represented Jamaica at the Under-15, Under-17, and Under-20 levels.
Reggae Girlz assistant coach Xavier Gilbert highlighted Brown’s exceptional talents. “What stands out the most is her pace, creativity, and how exciting she can be on the ball. It’s really a good feeling to see how she handles herself in close spaces on the football,” Gilbert said.
Already featured in two FIFA World Cups
At the senior level, Brown debuted at 16 years old and has already featured in two FIFA World Cups. Gilbert emphasized her coachability and versatility on the field. “Her goalscoring ability is very much up there. She can play anywhere across the offensive front line, including the number-10 position in the midfield. Brown is a dynamic player, as sometimes she isn’t used as an out-and-out striker, hence why we haven’t seen more goals from her,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Brown is expected to play a significant role in the Reggae Girlz’ campaigns for the 2027 FIFA World Cup and the CONCACAF Nations League. “She’s definitely a force to be reckoned with in the attacking line, and we expect her to just come out, execute, and give the usual attitude that she usually displays,” Gilbert added.
As Brown embarks on this new chapter with Benfica, the Jamaican football community eagerly anticipates her continued success and impact on both the club and national team levels.
