Deadline for the World Netball Youth Cup Qualifiers for Under-21 players has been extended due to COVID-19.
In a release sent out by the T&T Netball Association (TTNA) president Dr Patricia Butcher on Thursday, sharing guidance from the head body, the International Netball Federation (INF).
"This is truly an unprecedented time in world history and like you, I have been listening on a daily basis to our leaders of government and monitoring what is taking place around the world during this global pandemic.
"We have now received a missive from the INF President, Liz Nicholls and it is official that the deadline for the Qualifiers for the World Netball Youth Cup for U-21 players has been extended until October 31, 2020. Other sporting bodies are taking the necessary precautions and events are being postponed as well."
Butcher, like other sporting heads, are taking heed of the urging by the Ministry of Health to practise social distancing to slow the spread of the virus which can have deleterious effects especially for persons over 60 years.
"No one but our Creator can determine when this pandemic will end," said Butcher in the release adding that she has been keeping abreast of information about T&T's three professional players overseas.
."My heart reaches out to the three professional players who are abroad at this time. I have reached out to Daystar Swift (New Zealand) and Samantha Wallace (Australia) via WhatsApp. I have also spoken to Khalifa Mc Collin's(New Zealand) mother, Althea, to enquire about her welfare, particularly, at this time.
"Daystar and Khalifa are managing well and making every effort to stay safe. Indirectly, I have been assured that Samantha is doing her best to cope at this difficult time. Despite her best efforts, she would not have been able to return home before the closing of the borders by our government.
"In situations like these when we have no control my simple mantra is 'Let Go and Let God '. This is a time for serious reflection and meditation. No one knows the day or the hour when our Creator will call us back from this earth. My advice therefore is to take care of ourselves, our families and our loved ones and heed the guidance of our leaders concerning this virus."
She went on to advise all coaches including U-21's coaching staff Althea McCollin and Kemba Duncan to stay in touch with their charges and provide them with guidance and support so that they can remain fit and healthy pending the revised dates for the various tournaments. Earlier this month, the TTNA halted training of all national teams and all netball related activities.
"I will be keeping informed with our government ́s advisories and information from the INF and AFNA and our Secretary will advise of any changes and/or developments during this difficult period. Stay safe and may the Lord bless and keep all of us during these difficult times," said Butcher.