LOCAL fans of netball have received a double dose of exciting news as the Island is set to send a side to the inaugural Island Invitational Netball Games, while Team Jets plan to host four Netball South West Regional League 1 fixtures.
Netball is not currently one of the 18 sports hosts of the Island Games can choose from, thus the breakaway tournament was born, with Isle of Man to host the first instalment between 6 and 11 November.
The Caesareans have confirmed their attendance, along with the hosts, Shetland, Orkney and neighbours Guernsey.
Team Jets head coach Serena Kersten (née Guthrie) has long advocated for increased exposure for Jersey’s best netball stars and feels the event will offer a ‘prestigious opportunity’ for those selected.
‘Representing your Island is an incredible feeling,’ she said.
‘With netball never being a part of the Island Games, many feel we have missed out on that opportunity to compete.
‘The Island Invitational Netball Games will serve as a brilliant showcase for the sport and hopefully provide that added exposure that some of the smaller islands need.
‘For some of our players, this international tournament will be the highest level of netball they’ll ever play, which is a huge opportunity and one that we are all excited for moving forward.’
While the squad has not yet been confirmed, it is expected many Jets will be involved.
Despite her players having gained national experience as part of the club outfit, there is a sense of ‘immense pride’ when wearing Jersey colours, according to the former England captain. ‘While the Jets represent the cream of the crop in Jersey, and there will naturally be a lot of crossover in terms of the team involved, it is hard to replicate the feeling of putting your Island colours on,’ she said.
‘Anyone who watched the inter-insular against Guernsey earlier this year can see what wearing the Jersey kit means to the girls and it seems to help them raise their games to new levels.
Team Jets have also been buoyed by news that they will play home games this season, despite remaining in Netball South West Regional League 1.
Since the side relinquished their national league status in 2019, mainland clubs no longer had to travel to Jersey for away fixtures.
However, upon discussions ahead of the upcoming campaign, Kersten and Co have secured home fixtures against three opponents, headlined by a double-header at Les Ormes against Titans Lightning on 7 and 8 October.
Additionally, the Islanders are set to host Mavericks on 25 November and Poole on 7 January 2024.
‘Playing home games is so exciting,’ said Kersten.
‘We haven’t had the opportunity for a fair few seasons now, and many of our home fans have been unable to watch the side with every match taking place in the UK.’
While the time constraints make constant away travel difficult for most, it is not the only burden facing Jersey’s best.
The head coach said: ‘These girls are paying to go on away trips also. It was vital for us to do whatever possible to lighten the load for this upcoming season, as well as giving local fans the chance to support the side at home.
‘It is a massive chance for our sponsors, Santander International and Mourant also.
‘They are brilliant supporters of the club and a big reason behind how we are able to go and play in the regional leagues.
‘But most have never had the chance to watch us in competitive action.
‘This season will provide the opportunity to connect with them and our local fans on a deeper and more personal level.’
The Jets embark on their latest campaign with away fixtures against Exeter Equinox and Galmington on 23 and 24 September.
