LaToya Calvin-Williams, co-ordinator of the QEC33 (Quality Education Circle) Netball League expressed pride at putting together a competition that contributed to the sport’s development.
Anchovy Primary School emerged as the first champions, edging Chester Castle Primary 19-18 in a nail-biting title decider.
“It was a great feeling to watch the development and growth of students on and off the court. I saw students elevate their game. It gives me a feeling of excitement and anticipation for future success,” said Calvin-Williams.
“I am overwhelmed with many feelings. I am feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment in bringing the league together. I am also feeling relief and satisfaction after overcoming initial hurdles,” she added.
Winning coach Analisa Forrester was overjoyed with her team’s first title.
“Proud is actually an understatement. It was not an easy journey, for the children especially. The students have moved from being naïve to well-cultivated netballers. We asked the girls to learn and play a game they knew nothing about,” said Forrester.
“There were times they wanted to give up because they felt it was too hard. However, they put in the dedication and I have seen them grow. I see hope when they move on from the primary level, to build on their game,” she added.
At the presentation ceremony, Anchovy’s goal-attacker Ariana Bowers was given the Most Valuable Player award for the final, for her exceptional handling of her attacking duties. She was presented with a trophy. Her teammate, Alania Strachan, was voted the best defender.
Trophies, and medals were given to first-, second- and third-place winners.
Lethe Primary’s Tajanique Colman was the top goal-shooter with 66 goals and Shadeen Miller was the most outstanding player for the season.
St. Mary Prep’s Jane Ciao Kirlew won the Sportsmanship Award and Aljanae Samuels was the Most Improved player.
Meanwhile, of the main sponsors, Member of Parliament of St James Southern Homer Davis said he loved the competitive showdown in the final.
“It was an ecstatic experience. It is nice to see young people come together in a very competitive sport. It was easy for me to commit myself to this great cause. I am congratulating all the teams who participated,” Davis said.
