Christmas Message: Big plans to take local netball to the next level – BNA

 

With 2022 nearing its end and a new Board at the helm of the Barbados Netball Association, it is time for us to bond together to take Barbados Netball to the next level.

To all the wonderful players as well as the volunteers, coaches and umpires, we are always grateful for the invaluable support that you provide in bringing the game of netball to life. So first let me take this opportunity on behalf of the entire Board to wish all of you a very blessed Christmas, filled with joy and good health. We look forward to your continued support in the coming year.

As we look forward to 2023, we have to think ‘outside of the box’, try new and innovative strategies to deliver high performance programmes. World Netball rolled out a new strategic plan in 2021 with three new core strategies to GROW, PLAY and INSPIRE. In the new year all clubs will be invited to join hands and heart as we develop our first High Performance Four-Year Strategic Plan.

We will welcome new subcommittees in the following areas: Youth, Communications, Community Netball, Tournament, Finance & Sponsorship; HR & Talent Management, Disciplinary & Legal Affairs, Development, Infrastructure, Netball Tourism and Special Events. These subcommittees will enhance the implementation of the many programmes envisaged over the next four years.

Our new coaching teams will work collaboratively with a goal of improving the skills of a wide cross section of players of all ages. With a sound succession plan and ongoing training squads, netball in Barbados is destined to excel, and be a force to reckon with on the World Stage.

In January 2023, we will be working with our members to build capacity that you can be better equipped to roll out your club programmes – Skills Development Camp, Coaching Clinics, Safe Guarding in Sports (Netball), Basic First Aid and Netball Administration are some of the areas identified to be rolled out but you are encouraged to request others at our ‘Netball Townhall Meetings’.

The Community Netball Subcommittee has already started planning for a series of mini Fast 5 Tournaments which will be held in communities throughout Barbados. This is expected to commence as early as January 29th, and your club can participate at a venue close to you and support other communities.Let us revive that community spirit as you invite your family and friends to enjoy a good game of netball.

The new Board looks forward to working with all of you as we make netball a buzz word not only in Barbados but throughout the world as we promote Barbados as a netball destination with a full package of fun, sight-seeing and sports in the community.

Our Communications Committee led by our Vice President, Mr. Carl Padmore, and fueled by our new PRO Ms. Tonisha Rock-Yaw, have already started the community embracement by partnering with the Red Foundation to bring joy and a smile to 12 netball families as they present Food Hampers throughout the island. Well-rounded netballers with a mission to give back to our communities and build a safe and peaceful Barbados is our aim.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas as you share your joys and festivities with family and friends.
Carmeta Douglin

President, Barbados Netball Association