Women's rugby league could be the next big thing for Jamaica if the team can make it to the 2028 World Cup-they just need the support and recognition to make it happen. Despite flying under the radar at home, the Reggae Warriors have been making strides on the international stage. And if their heated training session last Friday was any indication, a lack of attention hasn't dampened their determination. Under the relentless midday sun, the Warriors hit the field, pushing through drills with an energy that encapsulated 'likkle but wi tallawah.' Their camaraderie was evident as they cracked jokes while lacing up their boots, but once the whistle blew, it was all business. "We don't have a home field, we don't have the resources, but what we do have is heart," said head coach Andrew Dixon. "These girls are training hard, putting in the work, and they're proving that Jamaica can be a force in women's rugby league." The Reggae Warriors' journey didn't start with grand support or government backing--it started with passion and a relentless desire to prove that women's rugby could thrive here. Dixon recalled the early days of the programme, when the idea of a national women's rugby league team was met with scepticism. "People didn't take us seriously at first. Rugby isn't traditionally seen as a women's sport here, so we had to work twice as hard to get people to buy in." Despite the initial struggles, the team pushed forward, playing scrimmages wherever they could find space--sometimes on borrowed football fields, other times in open lots. "The male team had already paved the way, making their World Cup debut in 2021, so we knew it was possible. We just needed to prove we belonged on that path too," Dixon added. Michelle Laing, team manager for the UK-based Reggae Warriors, has been instrumental in building the programme. She saw first-hand how Jamaica's natural athleticism could translate to rugby league success. "When I came down here, I was shocked-Jamaicans have the perfect build, speed, and raw power for rugby, but no exposure. It was a no-brainer that we needed to develop the women's team," she said. The team's breakthrough moment came when they competed in the World Cup qualifiers in Florida last year. The Reggae Warriors made history with their first international win, doing so against the USA B team. But while the victory sent ripples through the rugby world, it barely made a splash back home in Jamaica. Despite their historic win, financial challenges continue to hold the team back. Unlike other national teams, the women's rugby players don't get paid. Many juggle jobs, school, and family responsibilities while scraping together funds for travel and training. Alicia Richards, vice-captain and self-described "rugby addict," stressed how even the smallest contributions can make a difference. "One meal, just one meal from a local restaurant, could help a player get to training. We don't need big corporate sponsors, we just need people to believe in these girls," she said. Richards expressed hope that more businesses and individuals will step forward to provide assistance. "If you own a company, sponsor a jersey. If you have connections, help us spread the word. Every bit counts." Richards also had a message for young girls and women interested in joining the team. "Just come and try it. Don't be afraid. You don't have to be the biggest or the strongest--rugby is about heart, discipline, and teamwork. Once you start, you'll never want to stop." Currently ranked 22nd in the world, the Reggae Warriors are fighting for more than just a spot in the 2028 World Cup, they're fighting for recognition, resources, and the chance to show Jamaica that they are putting our island on the international scene. Dixon remains hopeful that will happen soon. "We've proven we can compete. Now we just need the support. Give these girls a rugby field, give them the backing, and watch what happens." "Watching the men's team compete at the World Cup in 2021 was a whole experience, and to be honest, mi did bad mind. So mi say let us go--the men can do it, we can do it much better. And we're going to do it in 2028," said Richards.