Jennings: ‘An Honour Representing My Country’
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Z’Ani Jennings, the Bermuda Under-14 national football team captain, is living up to his family’s rich footballing legacy.
The dynamic midfielder showcased his skills at the recent Caribbean Football Union [CFU] Challenge Series in Trinidad and Tobago, establishing himself as one of the island’s brightest young talents.
Football is more than just a passion for Jennings — it’s a family tradition.
He is the son of Jemeiko Jennings, a former Bermuda national team midfielder, the brother of former AFC Wimbledon youth player Judah Chapman, and the cousin of Remi Coddington, who has played for both the Bermuda national team and youth academies at Bournemouth and West Ham United.
“My dad used to give me one-on-one training after school,” Jennings told Bernews. “I’m too young to remember seeing him play, but he’s definitely inspired me.”
Having honed his skills from a young age at North Village—where his father made a name for himself during the 2000s—Jennings is now charting his own path.
Two years ago, he moved to England to further his education, and he is already making strides on the football pitch after being handed trials by the Sheffield United Academy.
“One of my coaches at my futsal club [West Yorkshire Futsal Club in Huddersfield] has opened the door for me to go on trial with Sheffield United,” said Jennings, who lives in Leeds. “I’ll do my best, and hopefully I can get signed.
“I miss my friends in Bermuda, but I know I had to leave to move on to better things.
“More young Bermudian players are coming to England to try and gain more experience.”
Jennings delivered some dazzling displays during the CFU Under-14 Challenge Series, scoring a spectacular long-range effort in a 1-0 victory over St Lucia.
He then scored twice in a dominant 6-0 semi-final win against Anguilla, leading Bermuda to the final.
Although the team lost 4-3 on penalties to Barbados in the final, Jennings’ leadership and abilities were undeniable, marking him as a player to watch for the future.
“It was an honour representing my country,” the former Whitney Institute student said.
“After the final, everyone was sad in the locker room, but we must remember how well we did to reach the final.
“As a captain, I try to motivate everyone and push the team to do our best.
“On the trip, I encouraged everyone to sleep on time. I wanted to get everyone in the best mindset.”
When asked about his playing style, Jennings said he is confident in his abilities.
“I’m dangerous on the ball, have a beautiful touch, and if you give me space, I’ll put it in the back of the net!” he added.
All the best Mr Jennings. Looking forward to seeing you achieve your goals. You definitely have the talent