MIAMI – Digicel, the Caribbean’s largest cell phone carrier, has decided to sponsor the 18th annual Florida Netball Classics taking place in South Florida (Davie).
The 3 day tournament starts with a bang on the weekend of October 16th – 18th, ending with its infamous Zone ball Shoot Out beach tournament on Ft. Lauderdale beach.
International teams are arriving from Grand Cayman, Bermuda, Trinidad and Tobago, Bahamas, and Jamaica. Domestic based teams, such as the British School of Houston and the Crusaders from New York, have all marked their calendars for what is sure to be one of the most anticipated netball events in America.
Regarded as the female equivalent to soccer and a complement to basketball, netball has proven to be a hit within the communities that participate. Previous years have seen some 50 international teams converged in Florida to enjoy the sport. “I foresee Florida as a hub for netball and international competition”, states Edina Bayne, President for the Florida Netball Association, “I see us playing a lead role in bringing this game to the forefront”. Her vision is to highlight the natural ambiance of Florida, encourage community participation and embrace the unique Caribbean style of playing the game.
A former world-class netballer, who was inducted by the Canadian Concordia Sports Hall of Fame for her basketball accomplishments, Edina Bayne explains that “Caribbean netballers are known as the ‘leapers’, and play differently. We play very vertical as opposed to a lateral game.” The growing number of expatriates that reside in the state also adds to the attractiveness, as netball is a favorite in countries such as England, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and throughout the Caribbean. In local markets, Bayne would like to see an increase in school and youth participation; “if you want a different result, risks must be taken.”
Netball teams ready for South Florida appearance.
Allister Roper, President and CEO of 4 Tors Sports Operator states, “4 Tors is focused on making Florida the #1 destination for netball”. Based in Miami for over 12 years, this renowned international sports tour operator has worked with both professional & amateur groups. The 2009 Florida Netball Classic tournament will start with a launch party on Thursday, October 15 at Ginger Bay Café, Hollywood, Florida followed by a series of activities specifically designed to enhance Florida’s charm. Other activities include the Hurricane Shootout which pits players in the tournament in a shootout against spectators for prizes and ends with our special Zoneball Beach final at South Beach in Ft Lauderdale.
Sponsors for the tournament include the Florida Sports Foundation, Digicel, 4 Tors Inc., Grace Foods and Carib Angel Services.
For more information visit, www.floridanetballclassic.com
