Promising schoolboy footballer Roman Garness is yet to visit Saint Lucia, but he is hopeful of a glittering career in the national uniform.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, the nine-year-old Garness has ties to Saint Lucia on both sides of his family, with grandparents from the southern community of Augier. And he is keen to follow in the footsteps of British-born players like senior national men’s captain Terell Thomas.
“Playing for Saint Lucia means everything to us,” said Matthew Garness, Roman’s dad.
“It’s more than just football, it’s about honouring our roots. Roman comes from strong Saint Lucian blood on both sides of the family, with deep ties to Augier, Vieux Fort, and proud connections to the Chitolie, Sumayah and Garness families.
“We’ve always raised him with a sense of patriotism, culture and identity, from learning Creole at home to cooking Lucian dishes and celebrating with soca and ska.
Representing Saint Lucia isn’t just a dream; it’s a responsibility we take seriously, and one that Roman carries with pride.
“At a time when Caribbean football is growing and gaining attention, we’re eager to help put Saint Lucia on the football map. Roman would be honoured to play his part, not just for the badge, but for his grandparents, his heritage, and every young Saint Lucian with big dreams.”
Garness has shone in the Under-9 division for the Bishops Stortford Centre, Harlow Town FC and Norwich FC. He helped guide the Harlow Town Eagles Under-9s to the Emerald Division Cup title and the top of their league earlier this year. Norwich coach Kieren Smith gave the lad a solid all-round assessment at season’s end.
“Roman is a very intelligent player,” Smith said. “He is a player who makes smart runs, is capable of combination play and can finish a chance very well from many types of angles. His understanding of the game is better than most, and creativity comes quite naturally to him.
“One thing I challenge Roman to do moving forward is to communicate with his teammates and take a leading role in progressing the ball forward. His runs create space for teammates and scoring opportunities for himself and others, so just small snippets of information he could shout out would help him and his team score more goals.”
Roman’s journey started at just six years old with Harlow Tekkers FC. He is now signed to Harlow Town FC, and his rise through the ranks has been nothing short of remarkable. From grassroots beginnings at Harlow Tekkers to cup-winning success with Harlow Town FC, Roman’s passion and progress are undeniable.
In his fourth season at Norwich FC and second year with their Advanced Development Squad, Garness continues to grow into an exciting young prospect. He has also been developed by coach Lester Thomas with Elite Pro Sport over the past three seasons.
Since his early days with Elite Pro Sport’s Under-11s at age seven, Garness has played above his level. Now at Harlow Town FC, he’s ready to compete in Under-11s and is being considered to make the leap to Under-14s.
In the coming months, Garness is planning to visit Saint Lucia with his family and is hopeful of trialling with the national youth team. His father said that this should be the first of many trips to come, as the talented boy seeks to deepen his connection to the island. His family here are equally eager to meet him, after years of video calling with his cousins.
