The afternoon of Thursday, August 20th, saw the commencement of a 2020 Netball Tournament under the auspices of the Anguilla Amateur Netball Association. It was the first Business Netball Tournament — sporting six teams, namely: AASPA, ANGLEC, Government of Anguilla, Health Authority of Anguilla, Hospitality, and Teachers.
The opening ceremony began with a prayer by the moderator, Ms. Charlene Roach, who also summoned a moment of silence in memory of Ms. Taitu Goodwin, an avid netball player, who tragically lost her life last year.
Following the playing of the National Song by Michael Martin Jr., on the steel-pan, Vice-President of the Association, Ms. Lakisha Hughes, addressed the gathering. After welcoming the spectators and recognizing the Minister of Social Development, the Hon. Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers, Ms. Hughes remarked:“On behalf of the Anguilla Amateur Netball Association, I stand to introduce the first Business Netball League. Despite the challenges, we are delighted to have six teams participating in our first Business Netball League. This could not have been possible without the unwavering efforts and dynamic support of the executive team. This opening ceremony bears testimony that teamwork can make the dream-work, and I sincerely thank each of you for your contribution.
“Over the years, netball has experienced several changes. However, the ANGLEC sponsored primary school netball competition has resulted in a number of young, vibrant players who have developed a love and passion for netball. These energetic players, who are very keen and knowledgeable about the sport, will undoubtedly propel netball in Anguilla to higher heights. By the way, I am particularly amazed by the enthusiasm and support of these young players’ parents and guardians.”
Then, in an effort to motivate the young teamsters, she admonished: “To our young netballers, I encourage each of you to continue with your drive and passion for netball, as this sport can boost self esteem, assist in personal development, and create long-lasting friendships. We, the executive, will do our part in making sure that you have access to training, travelling opportunities for playing the sport, and the opportunities to further develop your skill-sets through the organisation of local tournaments.”
The Vice-President then thanked the sponsors of the current tournament: “To the sponsors who saw the need to support this Business Netball League, despite the economic downturn, I extend a heartfelt ‘thank you’. This demonstrates that, as a business, you understand that we can help to build a stronger community and a healthy Anguilla through sports.”
Turning to the teams, she then said: “To you, our participating teams, thank you for taking the time to attend practice sessions and committing to the success of the first Business Netball League. I now take this opportunity to wish every team a successful game that is free from injuries, and may the best team win.”
The Hon. Dee-Ann Kentish-Rogers was on hand to speak to the gathering: “I am honoured to be addressing you, and I congratulate you for this first ever Anguilla Amateur Netball Association Business League. It is safe to say that although COVID-19 ushered in many negatives, this tournament is a good example of one positive.
“Netball is one of the oldest sports in Anguilla. I remember my grandmother and my mother speaking about their involvement in netball. Unfortunately, it happened to be a sport that I did not participate in, but I have heard of and seen — via Facebook — the renewed enthusiasm for netball in Anguilla. It is this enthusiasm that has ignited my interest in participating.”
She went on to elaborate on the personal, developmental benefits of playing a sport: “Sports has had a long history of developing persons, professionally and personally. It has developed the ability to exercise discipline and to work well with others — both of which are transferable skills in the world of work. Sports have proven to be a positive influence on mental health, as it reduces stress and anxiety.
“So, as you play in this year’s Business League, I want to encourage all the teams to continue with the enthusiasm that I have seen, and make sure that this event becomes an annual event for years to come. As you grow from strength to strength, I wish good luck to all the teams, and may the odds be ever in your favour.”
Following was the declaration of the players’ and umpires’ oaths. The vote of thanks was delivered by Johnesha Jones, and the Youth League was showcased. The games then began with AASPA against ANGLEC.
Scores for the first games on Thursday indicate that ANGLEC dealt AASPA a beating of 30 against 19; and Hospitality knocked out Government with 32 to 28. The inclement weather prevented any games on Friday, but Saturday afternoon witnessed the Government giving Teachers a good flogging with 33 to 19. That same night, ANGLEC was the victim of a lashing from the Health Authority, which metered out a beating of 25 to a mere 15; and Hospitality waged war over AASPA with a harrowing 43 to 23.
On Sunday, the Health Authority beat up the Government with 33 against 24; and Hospitality defeated Teachers with a slim margin of 23 to 22. Games continue on Saturday, August 29th.
The Amateur Netball Association cordially thanks the following entities for providing it with sponsorship: FLOW, Tackle Box; J.W. Proctors; International Wines and Spirits; Albert’s Wholesale and Marketplace; Creative Minds; Ashley and Sons; Shop and Take; Safe Cargo Services; Villa Adolpho; Sandy Hill Condos; Survivors Netball Club; Aronel; Rocco & Madelina; Superior Sanitary Supplies; Unique Trading; Limin Supermarket; Mings Supermarket; Zuri Wilkes Photography; Ken’s Barbeque; Mr. Lloyd Gumbs; and Class FM.
– Staff Reporter, James Harrigan
