Wilson elated with Suncorp all-star nod

SUNSHINE GIRL Latanya Wilson, who represents the Adelaide Thunder in the Suncorp Super Netball League in Australia, was one of three Jamaicans recently named in the Suncorp team of the year.

The 22-year-old, who plays wing and goal defence, was named alongside teammate player-of-the-year Shamera Sterling, and Jodi-Ann Ward, who represented the Collingwood Magpies, was named at the recent Netball Australia awards ceremony

“I am very happy about this recognition. It is always a privilege to go out there and, especially in the end, to see the hard work coming through. To be recognised this way, I am extremely happy for this,” said Wilson.

Wilson was surprised to be named in the team of the year.

“It is a wonderful feeling, I must say, one of the best competitions in the world. And being named in the team of the year, it is monumental. I did not expect it, although I had a great season, and, as I said, it is a privilege,” said Wilson who, along with Sterling, helped the Thunderbirds to the Super League title.

Wilson also believes that playing in the Super League has helped her improve.

“It is always challenging to play against the best of the best in the world on a weekly basis. One week you may have a bad game, so you are always forced to be at your best, as the competition in the league is extremely high and it forces you to be at the top of your game. You are on contract and, to keep your contract, you have to perform well. And, I must say, the competition has really helped me to get stronger and better.”

Most weekends, she is up against some of her Jamaican teammates in the league, and she was asked about that rivalry.

“I treat these games just like any others, as we are always good friends off the court. But, in competition, it is not about Jamaica. We are like enemies here but, once the game is finished, we are best friends again.”

Wilson was supporting Gaynstead High School during an Urban ISSA Schoolgirl Netball semi-final at the Leila Robinson Courts last week and said she was happy she was able to do that.

“It feels good to support my former high-school team, as it is a wonderful programme where I came through. Most of my former teammates would also come back and give their support too. I will have one-on-one motivational talks with players and I will assist with the coaching, especially in defence. I give them some of the tips I learned in Australia, which is very beneficial to the team.”

Wilson’s home in Jamaica burned down, leaving her and her family without their belongings. But Wilson received an outpouring of support from Jamaica and is now more philosophical about the misfortune.

“It is unfortunate, but that is life, and, in life on a whole, we can’t predict what tomorrow will be like. So we have to treat it like another misfortune where you’ve got to use the situation as a motivational factor and actually help you to push yourself more. At the moment, it is not the best, but I have to take it step by step each day,” said Wilson, making sure to thank friends, supporters, and her club for their support during her ordeal.