The electrifying Horizon Series between Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls and England’s Vitality Roses is not just a battle of skill but a historic journey to claim the prestigious Rhone Hornsby Trophy.
With two matches already in the books and Vitality Roses holding a slender 1-0 lead, the stage is set for a nail-biting conclusion in Kingston, Jamaica.
The trophy, steeped in legacy, celebrates two icons who revolutionized netball in their respective nations. Molly Rhone, a former Jamaican national player, elevated the sport globally during her 16-year tenure as the International Netball Federation’s first Jamaican president. Her leadership ushered netball into a new era, cementing Jamaica’s prominence on the global stage.
Jean Hornsby, England’s first Black national player, broke barriers as a standout wing defense for England in the 1979 World Netball Tournament. A trailblazer with a four-year tenure as England U21 captain, Hornsby remains an enduring symbol of excellence and diversity in sports.
This inaugural home-and-away series, designed to honor their contributions, will be a fixture on the international netball calendar for the next four years, fostering greater competition and camaraderie between these netball powerhouses.
The battle so far
The series began with an exhilarating tie in Manchester, ending 49-49, followed by a resounding 55-47 victory for England in the second match. As the competition shifts to Jamaica’s National Indoor Sports Centre (NISC), the Sunshine Girls are determined to defend their home turf.
“Jamaica is ready,” said a representative for the Sunshine Girls. “We’ve worked hard, and the energy in Kingston will drive us to deliver our best. This is about pride, legacy, and giving our fans the win they deserve.”
England’s Vitality Roses, buoyed by their recent success, remain equally resolute. “The Horizon Series has been nothing short of thrilling,” shared an England Netball spokesperson. “As we step onto Jamaican soil, we’re focused on maintaining the momentum and securing this trophy for England.”
Anticipating the grand finale
The final two matches will be held on Monday, November 25, at 6:30pm, and Tuesday, November 26, at 7:pm at the National Indoor Sports Centre. Molly Rhone herself will present the Rhone Hornsby Trophy to the series victor after the final match on Tuesday night.
As the world watches, this showdown promises to not only showcase elite netball but also pay homage to the legacies of two extraordinary women whose contributions continue to inspire players and fans alike.
