LAUNCHES INTERNATIONAL INVITATION NETBALL LEAGUE

Founder of Sri Lions Dr Kelum Sujith Perera addressing the press conference. (From left) Jayanthi de Silva, Thilaka Jinadasa, Prasadika Sewwandi and Akila Jayawardena

Sri Lions is poised to provide much needed international exposure for Sri Lankan netball players when they conduct an invitational tournament on 23 and 24 March at St Joseph’s College, Colombo indoor stadium.

The Sri Lions Netball League promises riveting competition among six formidable teams, including international contenders, heralding a new era of global recognition for Sri Lankan sports.

The participating teams are Sri Lions, Matrix from Maldives, Sri Lanka Schools, Sir John Kothalawala Defence University, State Services Netball Association and Nationalised Services Netball Association teams.

Former national netball coach Thilaka Jinadasa said this international tournament answered a long-felt need for local players.

“If we are to improve our world rankings, we need to play tournament matches at international level not just friendlies. Otherwise we cannot go beyond winning the Asian championship,” stressed Jinadasa who has coached Sri Lanka to the Asian title on two occasions.

“The style of play is different in the world stage. European and African teams are more aggressive unlike Asians. If we don’t play more international tournaments, our national players won’t get that experience,” she points out.

A double international in athletics and netball, it has been Jinadasa’s dream to start a netball league in Sri Lanka. “When there is a tournament with foreign players and teams competing, it will definitely lift the standard of local players,” says Jinadasa who is netball coach and advisor for the Dubai-based Sri Lions.

She lamented the fact that Sri Lanka doesn’t have a league of its own unlike Brunei where she was based for seven years. “I’m happy to see that Sri Lions have got two Malaysian players while a team from Maldives is participating in this tournament giving it an international flavour,” observed Jinadasa with the Best Player of the tournament trophy being named after Sri Lanka’s Olympic star.

The tournament will be played on a league basis with the teams drawn into two groups before the knockout rounds. Dr. Harsha Alles, Chairman of the Gateway will be the chief guest at the finals.

“We are thrilled to organise an international invitational tournament, featuring teams from three countries, including Sri Lankan teams from the UAE, Malaysia, and the Maldives. Originally envisioned with eight teams, logistical constraints have led us to narrow it down to six participating teams,” explained Jayanthi de Silva, netball technical advisor of Sri Lions at a press conference to announce details of the tournament.

“All matches will adhere to international standards, with each game lasting one hour, a format uncommon in Sri Lanka but prevalent in international indoor netball. Each team will play two games, followed by cross-play for seedings. Teams finishing third in their respective groups will compete for fifth and sixth place, while the semi-finalists will vie for the championship,” she said.

Sri Lions captain Akila Jayawardena was confident of lifting the trophy having several ex-national players and overseas stars in their ranks. “We’ve competed in numerous leagues in Dubai and participated in various tag games in Sri Lanka. I’m particularly thrilled to lead the team this time, especially with the inclusion of two Malaysian national players who are now proudly representing Sri Lions alongside us. Their enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament is palpable, and we’re all eager to give our best on the court,” said the former national star who is emotional about returning to play on home soil after a decade.

Sri Lions Sri Lanka also unveiled plans to launch netball academies in each district. “We are thrilled to announce the launch of Sri Lions’ very own Netball Academy. This academy embodies our dedication to nurturing new talent, fostering a passion for the game, and providing a platform for all netball players to thrive,” said Prasadika Sewwandi

“Furthermore, Sri Lions has made a commitment to instilling values of character, integrity, and discipline in all our players. These core principles form the bedrock upon which we not only build athletes but also exemplary representatives of the Sri Lions legacy,” she adds.

“Our coaching faculty comprises seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of team experience, ensuring that every player, regardless of skill level, receives top-notch training to unlock their full potential,” said Sewwandi, underscoring the philosophy of Sri Lions’ visionary Founder Dr Kelum Sujith Perera.

“Sri Lions aims to provide seasoned players with the opportunity to continue their passion for netball, compete at high levels, and impart their invaluable wisdom to the younger generation. These initiatives mark just the beginning of our journey. We envision a future where Sri Lions becomes more than just a sports venue but a vibrant centre for community development and a springboard for international sporting careers,” she summed up.