Recognition for Gill and her proteges

THE Commodore annual young player-of-the-year award, made by the Guernsey Netball Association, was split this year to recognise the talents of two of the island's promising players. Naomi Taylor and Zola Bourgaize shared the award and newly-appointed GNA president Jacqui Le Noury said that it had been impossible to decide between the two.

'Both girls have made superb progress during the season. They have both played well in the Commodore League locally and both girls represented Guernsey at inter-insular level at their age group and above.

'Naomi has reached the England under-17 long squad and Zola has reached the England under-17 potential squad while still being aged 14,' she added.

Coach of the year went to Gill Queripel , the retiring president of the Association.

Miss Le Noury explained that the award had been given for her work at club level with Nerine Trust, who won Divisions One and Two.

'Every team relies on its coach, but the whole of Guernsey netball has relied on Gill's enthusiasm for many years now.

'In addition to her work for the association, Gill has also enjoyed a wonderful year as academy coach and has been hugely responsible for Naomi and Zola's achievement at England Trials and also takes the time to coach young elite players from all clubs across the association, so she really deserves this award.'

All three winners received generous travel vouchers from Association sponsors Commodore, presented by Ian Milner and Juliet Prevel.