Jamaica international Damion Lowe (green jersey) is shown in CONCACAF Gold Cup action against Mexico on July 13, 2017, in Denver, Colorado, USA. (Photo: AFP Services)
KRISTIANSAND, Norway – On February 6, 2001, then Jamaica international Onandi Lowe made his debut in European club football, scoring the opening goal as Port Vale earned a 4-0 win over visiting Darlington in an LDV Vans Trophy Northern quarterfinal.
More than 16 years later, his son – Damion – is ready to take his first steps into the European game after being acquired by Norwegian second-division side IK Start from the USA’s Tampa Bay Rowdies last week.
The 6-foot-3 defender, a standout in Jamaica’s run to the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup final, is excited to start the next chapter of his football career.
“I first heard of interest from Norway a little after the Gold Cup,” Lowe told CONCACAF.com. “IK Start was the club that really pushed to get me and for that I am really grateful and excited, so now my focus is to settle with this club. In addition, I hope to get used to the conditions, style of play and players, so that I can settle well.”
Lowe, who made 18 appearances in all competitions during his first season with Tampa Bay, said that playing in Europe was one of his footballing objectives..
“It has always been my dream to play in Europe, so I am extremely honoured to be here,” the 24-year-old finished. “I am just going to take it one step at a time, so that I can improve as a player and make good decisions on the pitch. I am feeling fresh. I am just trying to get used to the players and know how they play and all. So far training has been going good and I am eagerly looking forward to playing and doing well.”
