The Singapore Under-21 netball team recently made headlines by clinching the Asian Youth Netball Championship title in a thrilling match against Malaysia. This victory was particularly sweet as it marked their first win since 2017, after facing defeats in the finals of 2019 and 2023.
The journey to this remarkable triumph was not without its challenges. In 2023, the team had faltered in their attempt to reclaim the championship title, falling short against Malaysia in a closely contested final match. However, this setback only fueled their determination to come back stronger and reclaim the glory that had eluded them.
On a day filled with anticipation and nerves at the Jeonju Hwasan Gymnasium, history took a turn when Singapore faced off against familiar rivals Malaysia once again. The team’s co-captain Norah Gabriel revealed that they entered the game with a focused mindset despite acknowledging Malaysia’s formidable reputation on the court. In her words,
“We were just focusing on our own game plan and our own process.”
As the match unfolded, Singapore displayed exceptional skill and strategic gameplay, taking an early lead and maintaining their momentum throughout each quarter. The support from teammates played a crucial role in boosting morale and fostering a sense of unity among the players. Co-captain Charlotte Lee highlighted the significance of encouragement within the team dynamic, stating that
“During the game, we just make sure that we are all encouraging each other and cheering for each other.”
Coach Yeo Mee Hong’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the team towards success. With years of experience under her belt, Coach Yeo emphasized the importance of sticking to basics and adapting strategies based on opponents’ tactics. Her dedication to nurturing individual growth within the team contributed significantly to their performance on the court.
Reflecting on their hard-earned victory, Coach Yeo expressed pride in her players’ achievements and highlighted their continuous progress leading up to securing the championship title. She noted how each player had shown remarkable improvement over time, culminating in a stellar performance during the final match.
Looking ahead, Singapore’s U-21 netball squad is now setting their sights on another major competition –the Netball World Youth Cup scheduled to take place in Gibraltar later this year. Despite being placed in a challenging group alongside formidable opponents like Australia and Northern Ireland, Coach Yeo remains optimistic about their prospects for success.
As they embark on this new chapter of competitive play, Singapore’s young netball stars carry with them not just a trophy but also valuable lessons in perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering spirit – qualities that define champions both on and off the court.
