Grande Riviere has marked a significant milestone in its sporting development with the official opening of the Dedra Mathurin Multipurpose Court, a new facility dedicated to the memory of the late netballer.
The ceremony, hosted by the Grande Riviere Development Committee in collaboration with the Department of Youth Development and Sports, brought together government representatives, members of the Saint Lucia netball fraternity, community residents, and Mathurin’s family and friends.
President of the Grande Riviere Development Committee, Anselma Philip, described the opening as both a community achievement and a tribute to a woman whose contribution to netball continues to be remembered. She expressed that “what once began on gravel has now become a proper sporting facility, a place where our young people can train, compete, develop their talents and perhaps one day represent our community and our country. That journey is part of Dedra’s legacy.”
Mathurin was remembered as an energetic and passionate athlete who developed a strong connection to netball from her school days. Her involvement with the sport, including her time with the Elite Netball Club, helped foster friendships and lasting bonds within the netball community.
President of the Saint Lucia Netball Association, Sanya Antoine, said the occasion was about more than unveiling a new sporting facility.
She described it as an opportunity to celebrate Mathurin’s passion for the sport while recognising the impact she had on those around her.
Antoine said the court represents both a tribute to Mathurin and an investment in the future of women and girls in sport.
“We hope this court becomes a place filled with laughter, determination, teamwork, discipline, and dreams,” she said, encouraging young women and girls from Grande Riviere and surrounding communities to embrace netball and the opportunities it can provide.
For Philip, the significance of the facility extends beyond the sport itself. She challenged the community to “let this court produce not only good netball players, but disciplined young people, confident young women and men, leaders, role models and champions in life.”
The facility is expected to provide a dedicated space for training, competition and community activities, while creating greater opportunities for aspiring athletes to develop their skills.
Antoine also praised the Government of Saint Lucia and the various partners involved in bringing the project to fruition, describing the initiative as “only the tip of the iceberg.”
She expressed hope that similar investments would be made in communities across the island to support the continued development of netball and provide athletes with greater opportunities and recognition.
The Grande Riviere Development Committee also extended its appreciation to the organisations, partners and individuals who contributed to the project, while paying special tribute to Mathurin’s family for sharing her with the wider netball community.
The new court will now carry Mathurin’s name into the future, ensuring that her contribution to netball remains part of the community’s sporting story.