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Sunshine Girls await COVID test results

Published:Thursday | October 8, 2020 | 12:10 AMRobert Bailey/Gleaner Writer
Robinson
Robinson

Netball Jamaica (NJ) officials are today anxiously anticipating the results of COVID-19 tests, which were carried out by members of the national senior netball team earlier this week.

NJ President Tricia Robinson told The Gleaner that a total of 14 Sunshine Girls players along with the technical staff were all tested for the virus as they step up preparations ahead of their highly-anticipated international series against England in December.

“I am really anxious for them (tests results) to come in so that we can have the girls on court as soon as possible,” Robinson said. “I am not nervous because if anyone tests positive now, then we will have to take the necessary steps to deal with the recovery.”

“If anyone tests positive we will provide that requisite support that is needed in their recovery process,” she added.

Robinson shared that the tests were carried out earlier this week and were facilitated by Dr Michelle Holts and Dr Carl Bruce.

“The girls were told to protect themselves and protect their peers and I know that they have been following the guidelines that have been set by Netball Jamaica in doing so and I am anticipating that all will be well when these results come out,” Robinson said.

She also stated all the protocols have been agreed on with the Ministry of Health & Wellness and that once these tests results come back negative, the players will return to the courts this weekend.

“It is a pandemic and we have seen the impact of it on our economy and these tests by the girls are a very critical part of the way forward for us as we look forward to playing in this series against England,” Robinson said.

The Sunshine Girls are gearing up to face rivals England in a three-Test Series at the Copper Box Arena in London, England, from December 1-6.

The Sunshine Girls are ranked fourth in the world, one place below England in the standings.

Robinson noted that the series forms a very important part of the Sunshine Girls’ development as they build towards the 2023 Netball World Cup in South Africa.

“I am expecting the girls to put their all in the series and do well for the country and themselves,” she said.

robert.bailey@gleanerjm.com