Daley beams with pride as Denbigh end eight-year junior title drought

WHEN Denbigh High School]s netballers broke an eight-year drought by winning their fifth all-island junior netball title - defeating Wolmer's Girls' by two goals in the finals - one of the happiest persons inside the G.C. Foster College of Sport and Physical Education auditorium was the principal of the May Pen institution, Annett Daley.

In her second year as principal, Daley -- who was seen grinning from ear to ear and has also coached title-winning teams before -- was even happier this time around.

Daley, who has also helped guide Glenmuir High and The Mico University College to success in the past, was seen at intervals giving tips to members of the team in what was a very close encounter, and she was elated with the team's success.

"I am extremely elated after winning the title before as a coach and now being the principal of the school. This is definitely a good feeling," she said.

DIFFERENCE AS SPECTATOR

Head coach of Jamaica's national under-21 netball team, Daley spoke about the difference between being a coach and sitting on the sidelines watching.

"Sitting on the sidelines and observing is so different, as you tend to see what is happening more. Speaking to them, giving them motivation and some tips at intervals, I think it carried a lot of weight, as they know that I am not just the principal, but also a coach."

Compared to winning teams she has coached at Denbigh in the past, she spoke highly of the present team.

"This team was just as good as those I coached in the past, and what I like about this team is their resilience and tenacity, as shown at critical moments," she said.

"In the rural semi-finals they won by one goal, and going into overtime in both the rural and all-island finals they showed their fighting spirit. This is a young team, as several members will return as juniors next year," said Daley.

SPECIAL IN DEFENCE

She singled out the defensive unit for its excellent performances.

"The team was special in defence, and I think this is where they have shown their strength all season, especially three players who were very outstanding. What I saw are future stars for the national senior team," she shared.

Daley was also happy that the coach invited her to a few training sessions lately.

"I know I have something to offer, and when the coach invited me to give some tips to the players at a few training sessions, I was happy. I think what I said to the girls resonated well in the end, as I could see it in their play," cited Daley.

Asked what the future holds, her response was simple: "Denbigh is back, and will get bigger and better."