From the sandy shores of Bermuda to the bustling cityscape of London, Jya Ratteray-Smith’s journey in football has been one of determination, resilience and an unwavering love for the game.
The midfielder for the Bermuda Women’s National Football Team and the London Seawards, aged 23, is not only making strides on the field but is also tackling academia with her studies in accounting and finance at London Metropolitan University.
A FLAME IGNITED
There wasn’t a singular moment that ignited Ms Ratteray-Smith’s passion for football – it was more like a consistent flame that gradually grew brighter.
“I’ve played football for as long as I can remember,” she said. “Football is a long-standing tradition in my family. Both my brothers played, and my stepdad, dad and grandpa were all football coaches.”
Her path, then, seemed almost predestined. Not only was she following in the footsteps of her male role models, she was also quick to realise that she had the passion and skill to go far.
OVERCOMING HURDLES
Despite her talent, the road was not without its bumps.
“I remember right after high school, I missed the chance to go on a trip with the national team that ‘‘d been really looking forward to. That hurt,” Ms Ratteray-Smith said.
It happened right when her sports career was getting serious, but instead of knocking her down, it lit that fire.
She realised something important: just because she didn’t make the team didn’t mean she wasn’t good at what she does. In fact, it made her want to prove something.
“Getting cut actually made me want to push myself even more, get better at my game, and stick with the sport I love.”
Her resilience has also been tested in Britain, where the level of competition sharply contrasts with Bermuda.
“Once you start playing in the UK, it’s obvious you’re dealing with a whole other level of professionalism,” she said.
“Back in Bermuda, the games were tough and everyone was disciplined, but the setup for sports and the opportunities to train were far less than what I saw in the UK.
“Over here, it’s like everything’s dialed up —the games are faster and the players are always on their A-game.”
She realised she needed to step up her own commitment to keep up with the demand of UK football.
CHAMPIONING FEMALE ATHLETES
In a traditionally male-dominated sport, Ms Ratteray-Smith has seen firsthand the flux of female participation within football.
“Football is one of those male-dominated sports that get a decent female turnout, but girls don’t often stick with it after middle school and even fewer after high school.”
She hopes in the years and decades to come that more sustainable opportunities can open up for local women in the sport.
Despite the hurdles, her time in football has been rewarding.
“The highlights for me being on the national team are some of the trips you get to experience. I’ve been to America a few times, as well as Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, St Vincent, Barbados and last summer we went to Guernsey,” she said.
According to Ms Ratteray-Smith, those memories are invaluable, as is the camaraderie developed with teammates.
“So many of my lifelong friends have come from playing football and because of the shared passion, it’s a really strong bond you develop with your teammates.”
WORDS OF WISDOM
Her advice to young women considering semi-professional or professional sports is simple and heartfelt.
“If you really enjoy what you’re doing, you’ve just got to keep on at it, keep playing and getting better.
“You’re going to have tough times — losing games, getting hurt, or just hitting a rough patch — but don’t let those things knock you down or make you forget all the rewards.
“The thrill of nailing a goal, getting the hang of something new, or just having fun and building connections with your teammates — those are the moments that will stick with you through the rough patches.”
She’s been able to persevere with what she loves by toughing it out and always looking at the bright side, no matter how hard things get.
As she navigates her final year of university in the UK, Ms Ratteray-Smith remains uncertain, but is hopeful, about her football trajectory post-academics.
“I still want to play, but obviously, the level out here [in England] is a completely different level than back home, so I don’t know. We just have to see how it pans out. Stay tuned.”
Her commitment to the London Seawards has been unwavering, having been with the club for three years, including a loan to Durham in her first season.
She’s found her groove over the past two campaigns, showcasing her skills on the pitch.
“My story’s really about resilience, about how much heart you’ve got to put into things you love, even when it feels like you’re up against everything.”
She hopes her story inspires other women in sport, reminding them that dreams can come true if you just keep pushing.
“With enough grit and a whole lot of hustle, you find your way to shine, both playing the sport you love and in other parts of your life too,” she said.
