Australian Kuhar back in Jamaica to help build Elite Netball League

Australian centre Hannah Kuhar will be the lone International player this year when the Red Stripe Flavours Netball Jamaica Elite League season begins this evening at the National Indoor Sport Centre.

Kuhar, one of two international players last year, along with Danielle Jordan-Taft from England, is delighted to be back, as she wants to continue to play a role in the development of the Elite League.

"I am really happy to be back, as I really believe in the potential of this league and I think it is important to have that international influence and I am a part of that legacy. So I will do what I can to help netball in Jamaica and help the elite league," she told The Gleaner.

"Danny (Jordan-Taft). She also plays rugby and  unfortunately she couldn't play, but I would love to see more international players come in but I understand it takes a lot of organisation, planning and, more importantly, it costs a lot of money."

Last season, Kuhar and the Spurs dominated the league all the way up to the final, where they fell to underdogs Kingston Hummingbirds.

The Australian said the defeat was a bitter blow but that they intend to use it as motivation to go all the way this term.

"Manchester Spurs has a proud and successful history. We always have the target on our backs. Last season, we made it through to the final undefeated and then to falter at that final hurdle obviously stings, but we are better off after having that experience.

"The final pressure is a whole different type of ball game and so we are going to use that (final defeat) to fuel us in 2026. Manchester Spurs will have a lot of potential, a lot of excitement, and will be looking to go all the way."

The first game this evening between St Ann Orchids and St Catherine Racers starts at 6 p.m., while, in the feature match at 7:30 p.m., Kingston Hummingbirds take on Manchester Spurs in a rematch of last season's final.

Kuhar said the Elite League is full of talent and potential and hopes that the league gets a platform to televise games soon, as she believes the world is missing out on the exciting talents the league has on show.

"I look forward to this league being broadcast so our international fans can get a look at the action. As an international player that would be special. I see how talented these Jamaican players are and I want the world to be watching this league and trying to find the next Jhaneille (Fowler-Nembhard) or the next Shamera (Sterling-Humphrey). So it's going to take more visibility for them to be seen by the rest of the world."

She added that all the players were looking forward to the season with great anticipation.

"Everyone will be feeling nervous and excited. Most of the teams are still figuring out combinations and getting to know each other on and off the court.

"I am very grateful for the support from Netball Jamaica and Manchester Spurs and their sponsors West Kingston Power Partners. I am proud to be one of the first non-Jamaicans to play in this league. It is something I hold very dear to my heart and special to me and I am very motivated to help this league."

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com