St James netball boss hopping mad

• Claims body disengaged from selection process for junior programme

Adrian Frater, News Editor

WESTERN BUREAU:

Eglan Richards, president of the St James Netball Association (StJNA), and his executive, are hopping mad at the Jamaica Netball Association (JNA) for reportedly slighting them with regard to the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) development programme for the west.

According to Richards, the StJNA was contacted at short notice by Audrey Thompson, the JNA's netball coordinator for the west, and told to select some 40 players between the ages of 14-23 for regional selection at the Elleston Wakeland Youth Centre on October 1.

"The notice was just too short and we told her so," said Richards. "We have since learnt that she has been working on the programme with other persons from the parish who are unconnected with the StJNA and we take strong objection to that behaviour."

Richards said his executive had since met and discussed the matter thoroughly and had taken a decision to seek audience with the JNA.

"We are the only legitimate body in the parish with the authority to administer JNA-related programmes, so bypassing the StJNA and working with others without our approval is wrong," said Richards. "We want an explanation from the JNA as to why they are running a programme with persons without the requisite authorisation."

No comment

However, when contacted for a comment on the provocative issue, JNA boss Marva Bernard said that while she was aware of the JPS programme, which the JNA has endorsed, she was unaware of the issues raised by Richards.

"I would not want to comment on that issue until we get an official complaint from the StJNA, and we have not received a complaint to date," said Bernard. "We know of the JPS initiative, but we are unaware of any issues surrounding the programme. All we know, that it is a developmental programme for the parishes of Westmoreland, St James, Hanover, and Trelawny."

Like Bernard, Richards said he has no problem with the development programme, which he thinks is a good idea, especially with regard to identifying and developing new talent for the region. However, he believes it is wrong to circumvent his organisation.

"We don't know to what extent the JNA is at fault in this situation as our point of contact was with Audrey Thompson," said Richards. "That is one of the main reasons why we are seeking dialogue with the JNA.

"We have heard that players have been selected and training sessions are taking place, but these things are being done without our blessing," continued Richards. "We will not tolerate any act that is tantamount to undermining the StJNA."