Jamaica’s Next Generation Netball Team Eyes Gold at World Youth Cup

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Under-21 netball team will depart for Gibraltar on Wednesday, carrying the hopes of a nation and a singular ambition, to capture the gold medal at the Netball World Youth Cup.

Fresh off topping the Americas qualifying region, the squad is brimming with a potent mix of confidence and determination.

The team has been in an intensive residential training camp at the netball house since June, a period of preparation only briefly paused for Independence celebrations and civic duties during the national election.

The leadership is confident in their charge as Head Coach Annett Daley and Assistant Coach Nardia Hanson have both praised the squad’s impressive discipline, focus, and relaxed but competitive spirit as they enter the final stages of preparation.

The team’s on-court leadership will be provided by a formidable duo, including Captain Roxonna McLean, who brings valuable experience from her two caps with the senior Sunshine Girls.

She is supported by Vice-Captain Shaqwan Hamilton, who is riding a wave of momentum after recently captaining Holmwood Technical High School to victory at the World High School Championships in England.

The squad boasts a wealth of talent across the court. The attacking end will be powered by Jada Ricketts, Kaydeen Gordon, and Nickisha Powell.

The midcourt will be marshalled by Jessica Chaplain, Deandra Edwards, and Fentonian Henry, while defenders Evelyn Smith and Tianna Reid will be tasked with shutting down opposition attacks.

Adding an international flavour to the roster are Jamaica’s first-ever English-born U-21 selections, Tori Akinrinlalo and Azara Wilmot, who have been integrated into the team since the start of camp in June.