Jamaican netball sensation Shamera Sterling has added another illustrious chapter to the legacy of Jamaican players excelling in the Suncorp Super Netball league, as she claimed this year’s coveted Player of the Year award, solidifying her status in the sport’s history.
Sterling, a formidable defender, secured the top honors at Netball Australia’s Award ceremony, becoming only the second Jamaican player in the history of the tournament to earn the prestigious Player of the Year accolade. Her achievement continues a remarkable streak for Jamaican players, with ace shooter Jhaniele Fowler having clinched the award for the previous five consecutive years from 2018 to 2022. Sterling’s triumph extends the Jamaican dominance to six consecutive years.
The 27-year-old Sterling has been a standout player for the Adelaide Thunderbirds since her debut in 2019, quickly endearing herself to fans with her impressive performances. In her fifth season in the league, the Sunshine Girl standout played a pivotal role in guiding the Thunderbirds to their first premiership in a decade. In the epic grand final against the NSW Swifts, Sterling’s contributions were instrumental, as she secured seven crucial gains, three intercepts, and three rebounds.
Recognized as the league’s top goalkeeper
In the 2023 season, Sterling demonstrated her defensive prowess by leading the league with an impressive 118 deflections, a remarkable 15 more than the second-ranked player. Additionally, she topped the league with 46 interceptions, further underscoring her claim as one of the world’s best netball players.
Sterling’s exceptional performance also earned her a place in the Suncorp Super Netball Team of the Year, where she was recognized as the league’s top goalkeeper. She was joined in the Team of the Year by her compatriot Latanya Wilson, who excels in the wing-defense position, forming a dynamic duo in the Adelaide Thunderbirds’ defense. Furthermore, Jodi-Ann Ward, another talented defender, received recognition for her outstanding contributions to the Collingwood Magpies.
The Jamaican trio’s presence in the Team of the Year exemplifies their consistent excellence in the Suncorp Super Netball league and highlights the growing impact of Jamaican netball talent on the international stage. Sterling’s historic achievement as Player of the Year serves as a testament to her remarkable skill and dedication to the sport.
