University of North Carolina Athletics
Out Of The Blue: Omar Holness
November 20, 2014 | Men's Soccer
CHAPEL HILL - Omar Holness came to the U.S. from Jamaica as a freshman last year and took the Carolina soccer team by storm. Now he's looking to take his game to the next level (and maybe find a place to get some jerk chicken along the way).
Ben Brown: What's your most important pregame routine?
Omar Holness: “It starts the day before. I have to get at least eight hours of sleep. But during the day, I just clear my mind and go about the normal things that I would do."
What's the one game that you've been the most excited for in your career?
“Probably the game against Japan in the U17 World Cup in 2011. It was the World Cup and it was my first game on such a big stage and on such a high level. It was just an incredible feeling and atmosphere in front of about 12,000 people.”
What was the experience like to be named as the captain of the Jamaica U17 Team?
“It was a great experience and I learned a lot from that time. It definitely translated over to my teammates here at UNC and I think it was an experience that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my life.”
What's your favorite or most memorable goal that you've ever scored?
“It was probably that Maryland goal that I scored last season. When I look back at it, I say 'Can I do this again?' I ask myself that question.”
What do you miss the most about Jamaica?
“Ah, probably the food. I can't get jerk chicken anywhere here!”
Is jerk chicken your favorite Jamaican food?
“Oh yeah! I did hear about one place that makes jerk chicken but I haven't checked it out yet. I'm sure it's not authentic though.”
How often do people ask you about your accent?
“Almost every day, and I get the mimics and the jokes basically every day (laughing).”
Obviously you have great leadership skills because of your awards and being named a captain for a couple of different teams. Where did your leadership skills come from?
“Definitely my father. Even in the workplace, he's a good leader. He portrays that same skill of leadership to me and my brother, even in the household. I just feel like it was something that I experienced and learned from an early age.”
