T&T wins Caribbean Youth Under 16 Netball Tournament: Saint Lucia Secures Third Place

Team Saint Lucia demonstrated exceptional talent by claiming a hard-earned third place in this year’s Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Under 16 Netball Tournament, held at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium in Wildey, Barbados.  

Powerhouse Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) decisively won the Championship Title.  

The ‘Piton Girls’ junior National Netball Team displayed remarkable skill and determination throughout the competition, competing against some of the best teams in the region.  

T&T remained unbeaten to emerge as champions, while defending champions Barbados secured second place.  

Saint Lucia’s journey was marked by strong performances, starting with a commanding victory over Antigua and Barbuda at 30 – 7 on Day 1, followed by an impressive win against the Commonwealth of Dominica, 35 – 19, on Day 2.  

On Day 3, they faced a challenging match against the defending champions, Barbados, ultimately falling 21 – 33. However, the team rebounded to defeat Grenada, 32 – 22, before concluding their campaign with a tough battle against T&T, resulting in a 20 – 34 loss on the final night of competition, Saturday, April 12.  

In the Team Shooting competition, Saint Lucia secured third place with a total of 119 goals. Naija Ferdinand excelled, scoring 37 out of 56 attempts (66.07%), Hailey Thomas contributed 40 out of 57 attempts (70.18%), and Clarise Nervais shot 42 out of 61 attempts (68.85%).  

T&T dominated the Team Shooting competition with 128 goals, while Barbados finished second with 120 goals. The Commonwealth of Dominica and Grenada tied for fourth with 114 goals, and Antigua and Barbuda placed fifth with 93 goals. 

Team Saint Lucia, led by captain Naija Ferdinand, included standout players Yohanna Magloire, Rhea Jn Phillip, Sherise Joseph, Hailey Thomas, Andrea Wallis, Nyssa Lascaris, Linsey Auguste, Hayla Samuel, Neriah Charlery, Clarise Nervais, and Kiehanna St. Juste. They were supported by Deselva Florton (Team Manager), Shem Maxwell (Head Coach), Joann Anderson (Assistant Coach), and an attentive Barbados-based physiotherapist who provided crucial support.  

In the awards presented, Naija Ferdinand was recognized as the MVP of Team Saint Lucia, and Rhea Jn Phillip received the President’s Award.  

Saint Lucia’s impressive performance throughout the tournament exemplifies the team’s dedication, skill, and competitive spirit. Their victories and resilience against formidable opponents display their potential as rising stars in Caribbean netball.  

According to a Ministry of Sports spokesperson, the performance of the Saint Lucia National Netball Team at the Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Under 16 Netball Tournament is a clear testament to their hard work and teamwork. They made the nation proud and gained invaluable experience for future competitions.  

The Saint Lucia team and officials returned home on Sunday, April 13.