Women's Soccer | January 28

DeKALB, Ill. – Alyssa Stephenson of the Northern Illinois University women's soccer team has been named to Jamaica's team for the Concacaf (Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football) Under-20 Qualifiers in February. 

"I am beyond thrilled to represent my country," Stephenson said. "It's an incredible honor to wear the Jamaica badge on my jersey, and I can't wait to give my all for this team. Jamaica means the world to me, and nothing makes me happier than knowing I'm making my family proud and wearing the black, green, and gold!"

In December of 2024, Stephenson was part of the Jamaican squad that won the "Jewels of the Caribbean" U20 Cup, scoring a goal in the final as the Reggae Girls defeated the hosts Trinidad and Tobago, 2-1. 

For the Huskies in 2024, Stephenson played in 17 games, making eight starts. The freshman forward had three assists on the season. 

"I'm delighted for Alyssa and her family," NIU women's soccer head coach Michael O'Neill said. "Representing your country is a huge honor and everyone associated with the NIU women's soccer program is extremely proud of her. We wish Alyssa the best of luck in her upcoming games and will be cheering her on from DeKalb!"

Jamaica has been drawn into Group D for the Concacaf Under-20 Qualifiers with Nicaragua, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Vincent & the Grenadines. The tournament will be held from February 20-25 in Managua, Nicaragua. Jamaica will face St. Vincent & the Grenadines on the 20th, St. Kitts and Nevis on the 22nd, and Nicaragua on the 24th. 

The winner of the group will advance to the Concacaf U-20 Women's Championship in May, alongside the other five group winners, and join the top 2 ranked teams, the United States and Mexico, to play for a chance to compete in the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup.


-- NIU --