Miami – USL’s new franchise, Miami FC, announced the signing of Jamaican international Onandi Lowe, former college star and MLS player, the Brazilian Diego Walsh and midfielders Pedro Power and Artie Bartholomew.
Onandi Lowe has been one of the most emblematic players from the Jamaican national team in the last decade. The 6 foot 3 forward is well recognized for his strong right foot, and for being part of the “Reggae Boyz” that participated in the World Cup France 1998; the only Jamaican side in history to participate in a World Cup.
Lowe started in two of Jamaica’s three games at the World Cup; against Croatia in their debut, and against Japan. He was also a key player during the entire qualifying process for the World Cup.
The 32-year-old forward has worn the Jamaican national team jersey on more than 60 occasions, including the Gold Cup 1998 and the Gold Cup 2003.
Lowe has played for three different clubs in England: Coventry City, Rushden & Diamonds, and Port Vale FC. He arrives to Miami FC from Jamaican and Caribbean Champions, Portmore United.
In 2001, Lowe played for MLS side, Kansas City Wizards. That year, he led the team in shots on goal (66), scored four goals and recorded three assists in 13 games.
Lowe commented from Jamaica, “This is a great opportunity for me to continue my professional football career. I’m excited with the prospect of playing with Miami FC in its inaugural season in USL First Division. I must thank my sponsor in Jamaica, Captain Horace Burrell, for his belief in me as a person and a professional football player. He came to my assistance at a most crucial stage of my life. Many thanks also to Portmore United for allowing me the opportunity to parade my talent for the club, thus facilitating this latest opportunity with Miami FC. I will certainly play my part in bringing the 2006 USL Division One championship and the US Open Cup to the City of Miami.”
Portmore United FC Director, Horace Reid added, “Onandi is an exceptional talent, and I’m the least surprised that this opportunity has come his way. He still has what it takes to play at the highest level of international football. The Directors of Portmore United are
indeed pleased with Onandi’s progress in his short stint with the club, and also the fact that we could play our part in the continued development of his professional football career. We look forward to further collaboration with Miami FC in the very near future.”
Miami FC, South Florida’s new and only professional soccer team, will host a pre-season inaugural home match on Sunday, April 16 at 4PM vs. Portmore United (Jamaican and Caribbean Champion) at Tropical Park Stadium, which is located on the grounds of Tropical Park in the heart of Miami-Dade County.
Miami FC is committed to growing soccer in South Florida soccer in South Florida both at the youth, amateur and professional levels.
