AFTER overseeing her final series in charge of Netball Jamaica, President Tricia Robinson says the Sunshine Girls deserve more support as one of the country’s top-performing teams on a global scale.

Jamaica’s senior netballers started 2025 on a high, with a dominant 3-0 sweep over South Africa in the Margaret Beckford Sunshine Series at National Indoor Sports Centre which ended last Saturday.

It was consecutive series victories for the Sasher-Gaye Henry-Wright-coached team as they overcame England 2-1 in the Horizon Series in November.

Robinson says the team’s performances were a testament of their high quality.

“It was incredibly pleasing to see the Sunshine Girls dominate the series against the South Africa Proteas,” she told the Sunday Observer.

“Their performance showcased not only their skill and teamwork but also their determination to maintain their status as the number one team sport in the Caribbean and the Americas. Such victories boost morale and enhance support for the team.”

Robinson was also impressed with the team’s attitude and togetherness, which she says elevate Jamaica’s status in the sport.

“The strong togetherness displayed by the players and technical staff speaks volumes about the brand of the team,” she said. “It reflects a culture of unity, trust, and collaboration — which enhances their performance on the court.

“This cohesiveness not only builds a positive image for the team but also strengthens the support from fans and sponsors, reinforcing their status as a premier team in the region.”

Robinson, who took charge of local netball’s governing body in February 2020, will not seek re-election for the presidency at the association’s annual general meeting this month.

During her four-year stint, the Sunshine Girls won silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, and finished with bronze at the 2023 Netball World Cup in Cape Town, South Africa. They also rose from fourth to third in the World Netball rankings.

Robinson says the team needs to be rallied around as they work to end their gold medal drought at a major championship and become the world’s number one.

“To the supporters and neutrals, I would emphasise the importance of unity and encouragement for our Sunshine Girls,” she said. “Netball is the number one team sport in the Caribbean and the Americas. They are currently ranked third in the world and are looking to improve that ranking.

“Their dedication and hard work deserve recognition and support from everyone. By attending games, purchasing their merchandise, spreading the word, and engaging with the team, we can foster a positive environment that motivates them to achieve even greater heights.”

The Sunshine Girls next opponents will be announced in the coming months as Henry-Wright told the
Observer that they are in discussions with other countries to play more international series.

The team is preparing for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, and the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney, Australia.