Horizon Netball Series geared to Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts

The second staging of the Vitality Roses’ Horizon Series between the Jamaica Sunshine Girls and England Vitality Roses will be geared towards raising donations in support of the Hurricane Melissa relief efforts.

The annual netball series, which began last year, is a collaborative effort between Netball Jamaica and England Netball, to further add to a strong rivalry as both teams look to build towards the future.

Netball Jamaica and England Netball confirmed that for this year’s games, a portion of the ticket sales will be donated to the World Central Kitchen charity, which has been providing meals to those affected by the hurricane.

Fans will also be able to donate when purchasing tickets online, with further information regarding the donation drive to come.

Eboni Usoro-Brown, president of England Netball, said the long-standing connection between the two teams is far greater than their rivalry on the court, but a mutual respect and admiration between the two countries.

“The relationship between England Netball and Netball Jamaica runs far deeper than anything that happens on the court. Having faced the Sunshine Girls throughout my playing career, I know first-hand the passion, pride, and resilience they bring to every match,” she said.

“They are more than opponents; they have shaped some of the most defining moments in our sport.”

Karen Baugh, president of Netball Jamaica, welcomed the support of their English counterparts.

She said their time on the court will more than just a meeting between two teams, but a symbol of hope for those impacted by Hurricane Melissa.

“This series is not just about competition; it is a symbol of hope and a call to action for fans and communities to unite in support of Jamaica’s recovery,” she said.

“We look forward to an outstanding series and sharing in making a significant contribution to Jamaica’s recovery.”

NO GAMES IN JAMAICA

The four-year netball series will see a change in its format this year due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Where last year saw Jamaica and England hosting two games each, this year will only see games being played in England.

The decision was made following discussions between Netball Jamaica and England Netball regarding the viability of hosting games in Jamaica.

Baugh said despite the lack of games in Jamaica, she is confident the Sunshine Girls can display the resilience of the Jamaican people when they take to the court.

“Hurricane Melissa has caused widespread and devastating damage to several Jamaican communities and has also had unexpected impact on our planning for the Horizon Series,” she said.

“We are grateful for the support of the team from England Netball and our diaspora community to ensure that we can use the UK leg of the Horizon Series to demonstrate the strength and resilience of Jamaicans and the Sunshine Girls,” she said.

The games will be played on December 13 and 14 at the Copper Box Arena in London.

Jamaica are the defending champions in the Horizon Series, having won last year’s contest 2-1.

gregory.bryce@gleanerjm.com

Sunshine Girls squad:

Shooters: Shanice Beckford, Rhea Dixon, Simone Beckford, Gezelle Allison, Mischa Creary

Centre Court: Khadijah Williams, Adean Thomas, Abigale Sutherland, Crystal Plummer, Zaudi Green

Defenders: Kimone Shaw, Vangelee Williams, Theresa Beckford, Roxanna McLean, Paula Ann Burton