At just 11-years-old, Niessa Farquharson is already making a name for herself both on and off the netball court.

As the captain of Half-Way-Tree Primary school’s netball team, Farquharson’s journey to leadership has been built on hard work, determination, and a genuine love for the game.

“I have been playing netball for four years,” Farquharson shared with a bright smile. “What I enjoy most about playing netball is when I am playing with my teammates. It is very fun and entertaining.”

Her enthusiasm is evident both during matches and in practice sessions, at which she pushes herself to be the best.

This dedication led to her being named team captain, a role she embraces despite its challenges.

“Sometimes it’s difficult because my teammates are always giving trouble,” she admitted with a laugh. “They shout and run all over the place, and it can be hard to tell them what to do.”

Under her leadership, Half-Way-Tree Primary’s netball team recently celebrated a major triumph when they won the Kingston and St Andrew championships.

“This title meant a lot to us because we worked very hard for it and pushed ourselves to the limit,” she said proudly. “My biggest success is being the captain of the team and winning that championship with my teammates. I’m just excited about what is to come next for us.”

Balancing sports and academics is no easy feat, but Farquharson manages it with ease.

“It is not difficult to manage playing netball and doing my schoolwork,” she noted. “Whenever I finish training at lunchtime, I just come back inside and do my schoolwork immediately.”

Her favourite subjects are mathematics and language, and matching her netball progress with academic success is crucial for her as she works towards her dreams.

“I would like to become a doctor if I don’t become a Sunshine Girl,” she said, referring to Jamaica’s national netball team.

Farquharson draws inspiration from the Sunshine Girls, particularly their goal shooter and captain, Jhaniele Fowler.

“There is the goal shooter on the Sunshine Girls that can shoot very well, and I really like her,” she said. “I love the team and I like the way they move, how fast they move and everything.”

With her passion for the sport, dedication to her studies, and strong leadership qualities, the future looks bright for Farquharson. Whether she ends up wearing the Sunshine Girls’ colours or donning a white coat as a doctor, there is no doubt that she will continue to inspire those around her.