On the eve of Haiti’s Under-20 men’s national team opening match match against Canada for the 2015 CONCACAF U-20 Championship, haititempo.com caught up with forward Derrick Etienne Junior to discuss his participation in the tournament. Derrick, who is part of the New York Red Bulls academy, is eagerly looking towards the competition to represent Haiti, like his father with the seniors national.
HT: Derrick, just moments away from Haiti’s first match against Canada. Are you ready for this big challenge?
DE: Yes, I’ve been waiting for this moment since we’ve gotten to Jamaica. It’s going to be tough but we’re ready to go out and get the job done.
HT: Your dad once played for Haiti, and now you are doing the same, what does this all mean to you?
DE: It means a lot. My father played for the senior Haitian national team, and for me to follow his footsteps is a dream come true. I am able to play for one of the most passionate football countries in the world. It is truly a blessing.
HT: What do you think you can bring to this team, Derrick?
DE: Well, the team is already good and the guys bring a lot to the table. But I feel I can help bring some more creativity and extra energy.
HT: It must have been a busy week for you between traveling [ From New York to Haiti; Haiti to Jamaica ] and training with your new teammates?
DE: Yeah, but the guys are great, they helped me feel right at home the moment I got there. They’re a great group of guys, and we are working hard to get the job done and qualify Haiti for the World Cup.
HT: Are you confident that Haiti will be qualified for the World Cup?
DE: Yes, I am. We have all the tools to do it. It’s just a matter of executing on every play and maintaining our focus.
HT: What do you make of Haiti’s group, which includes Canada, Honduras and Mexico?
DE: It’s a challenge, but we have to step up and do our best.
HT: Any final words for the fans?
DE: Thank you for all your support and we will do our best to make you all proud.
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Interview conducted by Benson Petit-Clair for haititempo.com
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