Local Netballers to Celebrate Awards Evening
Story and Photos By Anthony De Beauville

( Photo ) SLOC President Richard Peterkin past Presidents of SLASW and SLNNA Paula Calderon, Paula James, Fortuna Belrose, Tecla Deterville and Rufina Paul in attendance at Helen of the West Netball Championship

This evening Saturday 9th February 2008, commencing at 7:30 pm the ladies in netball who for the past year have showcased their talent tirelessly on center court will finally don their finery as they head to the Oceana Restaurant over looking the picturesque capital city of Castries for their Annual Awards.
The evening celebrations will be under the distinguished patronage of Her Excellency, Governor General Dame Pearlette Louisy who over the years has been an avid netball fan and this evening will be no exception as the St. Lucia National Netball Association (SLNNA) will be honouring its members who in 2007, excelled in various areas of their sport.
( Photo ) Stiff netball action between the goal attack and goal defence at the VMPSC

Her Excellency has been the patron of the Association for a number of years and President of the SLNNA Liota Charlemagne has expressed the SLNNA’s delight by saying “We feel extremely honoured that Her Excellency has agreed to grace us with her presence at this important night for our sport.”
Exactly one week ago today while addressing participants at the 3rd annual Vintage Netball Tournament at the Vigie Multi Purpose Sports Complex rain affected opener, Charlemagne signalled a stern warning to those present to give back when she said that the SLNNA remains disappointed in the level of support offered to the association and challenged those involved to step up as leaders of the sport. The SLNNA President further went on to remind affiliates that they have the potential to give back to the sport as she urged those present to dig deep for the only limits are the ones they set for themselves.

( Photo ) Digicel Elite Strikers is expected to pick up most of the awards this evening

Up to press time no one knows what her message will entail but one thing for sure an exciting year of netball awaits all in 2008.On Saturday evening , in addition to awards won in tournaments played in 2007 there are also a number of special categories for both clubs and individuals: Most Disciplined Player, Participation Award, Spirit of Netball Award and Sponsor’s Award. As the envelopes remain sealed and are still in the possession of the chief judge, all and sundry will know this evening when the names for the top awards Junior and Senior Netballer for 2007 will be announced.
( Photo ) : Women in Sports as they all wait patiently for the sky to clear up at HOTW Championship

Recognizing that the sport is not only dependent on the athletes , special recognition awards will also be presented to umpires, officials and administrators as they too played a vital role in the success that was achieved in 2007. The evening will also see invitees from the various clubs and affiliates, sponsors, Ministry of Youth & Sports officials and the print and electric media.
“It is an auspicious occasion for us at the SLNNA, and a dream comes true to this executive” notes President Charlemagne, “and a night we are all looking forward to.” Congratulations to all the winners as we salute your Glory.