Shayne Fairman, STAR Writer

Highly experienced national women's player Alicia James now has her eyes firmly set on coaching, with the hope of giving back to the sport and aiding in the further development of women's football.

The 32-year-old veteran has had a very successful career at the local level since making her debut at the youth level in 1996.

She captained Barbican Football Club to a history-making seventh consecutive title in the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Sherwin Williams Women's Premier League this year.

James made her Barbican debut in 2002 and went on to win a total of 17 trophies at the club.

"I think I have achieved it all, locally," she told Star Sports, while adding, "Everyone is encouraging me to get certified and go into coaching because of my experience, passion, and commitment to the game on and off the field."

Knee injuries

Her resilience and determination on the field of play has only been slowed due to bouts of injury. This year, the strong leader was almost forced to quit the sport she loves because of 'nagging' knee injuries.

Those setbacks forced her to feature in only six competitive games in the recently-concluded season. James subsequently had rehabilitative surgery done on her knee in anticipation of a return to play, but is now convinced that the time is right to try a new calling.

"I am confident I could become a good coach," she said."I have served as player coach at my club whenever coach was away, and the feedback from the players has been good," she continued.

James added that she has gotten a lot out of football over the years, so it is time to give back to the sport. She also noted that her passion for the game will encourage and impact women's lives through the sport.

James now awaits the next JFF level-one training course. She is looking to get certified locally, rather than attempting overseas certification, which might not be accepted by JFF standards.