The Government of Barbados and the netball fraternity have honoured the most capped netball player in the island.
In a ceremony held on Tuesday, at the Wildey Gymnasium, a presentation of a miniature replica of a billboard was presented to Latonia Blackman, by the Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith.
Mr. Griffith highlighted Latonia’s exceptional achievement of 170 caps for Barbados, and her unwavering dedication to her craft, saying they had not gone unnoticed. He stated: “This is a small tribute to someone who has contributed at such a remarkable level, and I genuinely salute you, Latonia.”
He emphasised the importance of acknowledging individuals who have achieved the level of representation that Latonia has accomplished for her country.
He supported the initiative wholeheartedly, stating that the billboard should be visible to every single person.
Mr. Griffith spoke about potential locations for the billboard, proposing the Wildey Complex and the Grantley Adams International Airport as prime spots.
He emphasised Government’s commitment to recognising outstanding athletes like Latonia, and gave the assurance that a National Sports Hall of Fame was at the forefront of his mind. “Whenever that is in place, your name will be etched into that facility,” the Minister of Sports stated.
Latonia Blackman has represented Barbados at the Netball World Cup on five occasions in 1999, 2003, 2011, 2015 and 2019, and this upcoming tournament will be her sixth.
The Certified Level 1 Coach is ranked fourth in the World with Caps, and has won the Barbados Olympic Association’s Senior Female Athlete of the Year Award as well as the President’s Award.
Latonia, in speaking about the award, said: “I am proud and happy that someone is doing something for me, and [is recognising] all my accomplishments in netball.” Her advice to aspiring young netballers is “follow your dreams and go for what you want, don’t let anyone turn you back”.