Jamaica Netball Association defends coaching set up in Singapore

Melton Williams, Gleaner Writer



President of the Jamaica Netball Association, Marva Bernard, has defended the selection of coaches used during the recently concluded World Netball Championships in Singapore.



Just under two months before the World Netball Championships, Oberon Pitterson replaced Connie Francis as head coach, while Annett Daley was appointed as the assistant.



However, the coaches were heavily criticized following Jamaica’s disappointing performance in Singapore.



There were also reports that the players were uncomfortable with the coaching staff.



After the JNA had targeted a historic gold medal, the Sunshine Girls crashed to a humiliating 82-46 defeat against eventual champions, Australia in the semi-finals.



In the playoff for the bronze medal, the Sunshine Girls were beaten 70-49 by England.



However, Bernard said Oberon Pitterson wasn’t new to the players.



Following the championships, former coach Connie Francis had said the entire netball programme should be revamped.



There were several changes to the programme following the appointment of Australian Jill McIntosh as technical director, five months before the championships.



McIntosh made several changes, including a stipulation for coaches and captain to submit resumes for positions.



However, Bernard said the former coach was obviously disappointed following the selection of coaches.



melton.williams@gleanerjm.com