BY SHERDON COWAN

YOUNG Sunshine Girl Nicole Dixon has much to prove as she is determined to work her way up the ranks.

Dixon, who earned her first cap during the friendly series against Barbados in June, has been waiting in the wings since being named as a reserve to the 2014 Commonwealth Games team.

The 19-year-old has recollected with pride her experience after her selection to the team for the 2014 Fast5 series in New Zealand, which provided her with her first trip overseas as a Sunshine Girl.

“Wow, the experience has been great so far. When I was younger, I always sat and watched my sister play the game and from there I fell in love with the sport. I have learnt a lot and I am hoping to improve my game, which will take me a far way in helping with the success of the team,” she told the Jamaica Observer.

The first year physical education major student at the Mico University College, did not come through the national youth squads, but rather honed her netball skills playing at Holmwood Technical High School where she has won many titles between 2008 and 2013.

Having failed to make the final cut as a member of the National Under-21 training squad in the past, Dixon has now finally made her transition to the senior level.

“I got invited to join the team which was a great opportunity for me and one that I intend to grasp with both hands. I intend to work hard for whatever I want to achieve and to my full potential as my dream is to become a teacher or paediatrician as well as a professional netballer.

“I always put in the energy in my school work and training sessions to accomplish my dreams. One of the best things about being in the senior team is that it shows you your weak areas and pushes you to do the necessary work that is needed,” she explained.

The five-foot five-inch tall player, who favours the wing attack and centre positions, is focused on her development as a centre-court player with the ultimate goal of making the 2015 Netball World Cup team.

And the versatile player is aware that the task ahead will require the assistance and expertise of her senior teammates.

“I am a very determined individual who doesn’t give up easily and I put my trust in God,” said Dixon.

She continued: “I look up to the more senior players because it is hard to play the game without the guidance and encouragement of my teammates. So I follow instructions and also seek advice from my biggest fan outside of my family, which is Vangelee Williams.

Dixon is now boasting the team’s chances of sweeping the three-match home series against England in January.

“We have a really good team and the team work and discipline will help us to be victorious,” she pointed out.

“Once I get placed on the court, I know that a lot will be expected from me. So I will perform to the best of my ability and try my best to help the team to be victorious,” she added.