Head coach Sojourner “Suzie” Hyles-Lewis believes the national Under-16 netball team is ready to turn the pressure of playing at home into a winning advantage.
As the junior “Calypso Girls” prepare to defend their title at the 22nd Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball Tournament on Saturday at the University of the West Indies Sport and Physical Education Centre (UWISPEC) in St Augustine, at 3 pm.
Headcoach Hyles-Lewis believes her squad is mentally and physically tougher than ever.
The team’s preparation included matches against senior national women’s and men’s players.
Hyles-Lewis noted that these tough sessions were designed to sharpen the girls’ tactical edge before the first whistle blows.
“The number one habit we expect them to carry into the tournament is composure under pressure,” Hyles-Lewis said.
“Playing against senior and male players forced them to think faster, protect the ball better, and make smarter decisions in tight situations. That experience has sharpened their game awareness, so we expect them to move the ball with purpose, stay disciplined, and trust each other even when the pressure is high.”
While being the defending champion on home soil brings high expectations, the coaching staff, which includes assistant coach Simone Morgan, manager Jody Sprott, trainer Runako Gittens and David Mack (massage therapist), has focused heavily on the players’ mindset.
“We’ve prepared them mentally just as much as physically. The focus has been on staying grounded, trusting the process, and not getting caught up in the noise.
“Yes, we are defending champions and playing at home, but we’ve reminded the players that every game starts 0-0. Our job is to stay disciplined, play our style, and represent with pride. We’ve built a strong sense of unity and accountability, so they understand that pressure is a privilege—and we’re ready to embrace it at UWISPEC,” said Hyles-Lewis, a former national player.
With seven games scheduled over seven days, Hyles-Lewis is calling on the public to fill the stands in St Augustine and provide the energy the team needs to repeat as champion.
“We want to invite the entire public to come out and support these young ladies. They’ve been working hard, sacrificing, and pushing themselves every single day to represent with pride.
“Playing at home means everything to them, and your support can truly lift their performance,” said Hyles-Lewis.
“We ask you to stand behind the team, bring the energy, and create that atmosphere that makes home advantage real. These girls are not just playing for themselves—they’re playing for the country, for their families, and for every young athlete who dreams of being here one day.
“Come out, show your support, and be part of the journey. One love!”
The tournament officially begins with an opening ceremony at 1.30 pm this Saturday, followed by T&T taking on the Cayman Islands at 3 pm.
National U-16 netball team
Shooters: Brittney Roberts, Curleen Lara, Zewditu Alexander, Venus Kirk, Akaida Muir
Center Court: Kaylee Williams, Kelsea Gardner, Khemyah Anderson (vice-captain), Aaliyah Edwards, Mariah Navarro
Defenders: Kalis Findley, Arrianah Mack, Xariya Adams, Kaylah James, Jerusha Des Vignes (captain)
Technical Staff: Sojourner Hyles-Lewis (head coach), Simone Morgan (assistant coach), Jody Sprott (manager), Runako Gittens (athletic trainer), David Mack (massage therapist)
Today’s Matches
Opening ceremony, 1.30 pm
Cayman Islands vs T&T, 3 pm
Barbados vs Grenada, 4.30 pm
Dominica vs St Kitts & Nevis, 6 pm
Antigua & Barbuda vs St Lucia, 7.30 pm
Sunday’s matches
Barbados vs Dominica, 3 pm
Cayman Islands vs St Lucia, 4.30 pm
Antigua & Barbuda vs Grenada, 6 pm
St Kitts & Nevis vs T&T, 7.30 pm
