Jamaica’s Under-21 netball team concluded their 2025 World Netball Youth Cup campaign with a commendable fifth-place finish, marking a significant milestone in their journey. Head Coach Annett Daley expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, particularly after their 53-44 victory over Scotland in the consolation group final at the Europa Sports Complex in Gibraltar. The match, held on Sunday, showcased the young Sunshine Girls’ resilience and determination.
Daley highlighted the team’s ability to adapt and improve despite limited practice opportunities. ‘The girls stuck to the task and they delivered,’ she remarked, emphasizing the squad’s grit and execution. She also praised the defensive unit for their exceptional performance, noting their ability to recover from errors and maintain focus under pressure.
Reflecting on the broader implications of the tournament, Daley acknowledged the growing competitiveness in international netball, driven by increased investments from various countries. She stressed the importance of retaining and developing Jamaica’s young talent to ensure future success. ‘There’s a lot we can take away from this match,’ she said. ‘The girls are really in a position to make adjustments as they get more experience.’
However, Daley expressed concern about the Caribbean region’s standing in global netball, urging greater attention to development and investment. ‘If we are not careful in the Caribbean, we could be in problems,’ she warned.
The tournament saw Australia clinch the title with a 63-48 victory over New Zealand, while England secured third place with a 55-35 win against South Africa. Despite falling to Australia in the quarter-finals and England in the group stage, Jamaica’s performance against these top-tier teams was a source of pride for Daley and her squad. ‘The two teams that beat us, one came first and one came third,’ she noted. ‘We are feeling proud of ourselves.’
As the team looks ahead, the focus remains on building a cohesive unit and leveraging the lessons learned from this experience to achieve greater heights in the future.