Fifteen-year-old Kaelyn-Kendra Smith was the outstanding player as Wolmer's High School For Girls celebrated a historic victory over Holmwood Technical on Wednesday at Manchester High School by capturing their first-ever ISSA all-island junior netball title.
Playing as goal shooter, Smith was unstoppable, scoring 36 of her team's 37 goals from 42 attempts. Holmwood's defenders struggled to contain her dominance inside the circle and the Marescaux Road-based school team eased to a l 37-25 victory.
A composed and excited Smith reflected on the victory.
"We've been training very hard for this, not just for a year but more than two years. After coming close in the urban final last year, we had to redeem ourselves," she said.
Smith, a fourth-form student, began her netball journey at Praise Tabernacle Christian Academy before continuing at Vaz Preparatory and now at Wolmer's.
"Winning this title is a proud moment for me and my team. It's not just about hard work but also the mentality to maintain the lead all the way," she said.
She credited her coach, Tracy-Ann Griffiths, for the team's success.
"I love my coach. She works tirelessly with us on and off the court, even helping with schoolwork. I'm very thankful for the job she has done," Smith said.
Coach Griffiths was equally proud of Smith.
"Kaelyn is the rock of this team. It's been a pleasure to watch her grow and mature over the past two years. She stepped up big this season and is evolving into a leader," she said. "She's one for the future, and I think Netball Jamaica should invest in her development."
Griffiths, also regarded as the best netball umpire in the country and region, concluded by praising her team's hard work and resilience in securing the historic win.