Bernard Park Netball Courts came alive today as primary school girls showcased the future of netball during a highly anticipated youth tournament, highlighting the continued growth of the sport at the grassroots level.
Thirteen of the island’s 16 primary schools competed in the event, which followed a netball festival held just weeks ago aimed at introducing young girls to the game. While a few schools were absent due to cross-country commitments, organizers hailed the tournament as a major success.
TNN’s Trevor Lindsay caught up with Manny Ferrer, who explained that the festival served as an entry point for many players—some stepping onto the court for the very first time—before progressing to competitive play.
“Some girls were brand new to netball, while others had more experience,” Ferrer said. “Today was about bringing them together in a tournament setting, and overall it was a very good day.”
Northlands Primary once again emerged champions, marking their third or fourth consecutive year on top. West Pembroke delivered a strong performance to finish second in what Ferrer described as a closely contested and exciting day of matches.
Looking ahead, Ferrer noted that the momentum will continue with the start of the primary school netball league next week, followed by school cross-country meets and, later in the term, preparations for track and field—one of the biggest events on the school sports calendar.
Northlands coach Tanika White credited the success not only to her team but to a shared love of the sport across schools.
“It’s not just about my school,” White said. “I help with the festival and visit other schools because I love netball. I want to see it grow everywhere.”
White highlighted several promising players, including P5 students Kaye Rogers and Serena Fredericks, who played every game, alongside teammates Amina, Nala Goater, Jersey Burgess, and Mila Bryant. Many of the girls, she noted, were introduced to netball for the first time this year through twice-weekly training sessions at her school.
“I’m very proud that girls who had never played netball before came out and won,” she said.
White also praised the overall standard of play, singling out standout performances from other schools, including Harrington Sound, MSA Warwick Academy, and Somerset Primary noting that several matches could have gone either way.
With competitive games, emerging talent, and strong support from coaches and organizers, today’s tournament underscored a bright future for youth netball and the next generation of players coming through the system.
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