HAMPTON, Va. — Damali Williams was a year ahead of Rochele Solmon at Edwin Allen High School in Jamaica. When Williams graduated and chose Hampton University, 1,300 miles from home, to continue her track career, Solmon figured that was the end of their time as track and field teammates.
"She left high school before me and I was not thinking we'd end up in the same place again," said Solmon.
Then it came time for Solmon to make her college decision and a familiar face reappeared.
"A person I had known for years was already there, kind of made the process easier transitioning to America," said Solmon, who also chose to join the Pirates.
While Williams' presence helped Solmon's transition, Williams felt like she was joined by a piece of home.
"It was a really great feeling. I don't have to speak English all the time, I can speak patois. I love that very much. It's good company, it feels like I'm almost at home," said Williams.
Hampton track and field coach Eric Smalls has even started to pick up bits and pieces from the language.
"Coach Smalls always tries to understand us. He asks us and tries to learn," said Williams.
"It's an opportunity for me to grow as a person because these are my first two international athletes so it's a great opportunity for me to learn," shared Smalls.
After sophomore Williams and freshman Solmon each submitted fantastic seasons during the CAA competition, a new challenge arose this summer.
"A dream come true actually. Just representing your country," said Solmon.
Solmon and Williams traveled back home to compete in the discus throw at Jamaican Olympic trials on Saturday joined by their head coach.
"He's fitting in very well here," joked Williams regarding her head coach being in Jamaica with them.
Track and field reign supreme in Jamaica similar to American football in the U.S.
"In America, everyone loves football and in Jamaica everyone loves track and field," said Solmon.
Williams and Solmon each placed 6th and 7th in the women's discus throw with Williams marking a 51.02 and Solmon a 50.58.