Jamaica’s Under-21 netballers are in final preparations to depart the island on Wednesday for the highly anticipated Netball World Youth Cup, set for Gibraltar from September 19–28.

The young Sunshine Girls booked their spot at the global showpiece after topping the Americas region in the qualifiers and have been in full training mode since June. They will be among 20 nations vying for top honours in the prestigious tournament.

Leading the charge on court is captain Roxonna McLean, a player already seasoned on the international stage with two caps for the senior Sunshine Girls. She will be supported by vice-captain Shaqwan Hamilton, who recently made headlines in England when she captained Holmwood Technical High School to victory at the World High School Championships.

The squad boasts a mix of talent across all areas of the court. Attacking players include Jada Ricketts, Kaydeen Gordon, and Nickisha Powell, while the midcourt is anchored by Jessica Chaplain, Deandra Edwards, and Fentonian Henry. In defence, Evelyn Smith and Tianna Reid provide strength and reliability.

For the first time in history, Jamaica has selected two England-born players at the Under-21 level: Tori Akinrinlola and Azara Wilmot. The reserves are De-Eziah Martin, Shanai Martin, and Mali Akinrinlola – twin sister of Tori.

The team will be guided by head coach Annett Daley and assistant coach Nardia Hanson, a former national player.

Drawn in Pool C, the Jamaicans begin their campaign on September 21 against Tonga, followed by matches against Sri Lanka (September 22), Wales (September 23), and England (September 24) in what promises to be a competitive group stage.