The Vitality Netball Horizon Series trophy has been named after two inspirational trailblazers on behalf of England Netball and Netball Jamaica.
The sporting rivalry between England and Jamaica has a long and fascinating history that is well known to netball fans. Over the years countless individuals, whether that be players, coaches, volunteers, or other members of the Netball Family, have greatly impacted the development of the game across the two countries.
In celebration of this shared history and as we embark on an exciting journey committing to playing the Vitality Netball Horizon Series for the next four years, the two nations have come together to name the trophy they will be playing for after two trailblazing figures in our sport. The Vitality Netball Horizon Series trophy is proudly named the Rhone Hornsby Trophy in honour of Molly Rhone on behalf of Netball Jamaica, and Jean Hornsby on behalf of England Netball.
Molly and Jean are two incredible individuals who have shaped and influenced the game immeasurably across both nations and we are privileged to be able to honour them with this special recognition.
From leading her team on court to leading the development of netball across the world, Molly Rhone’s impact on the game cannot be underestimated. Celebrated today for her leadership of both the Jamaica Netball Association (JNA) and the International Netball Federation (INF), now known as World Netball, Molly initially made a name for herself with her performances on the netball court, representing Jamaica internationally for many years. Molly’s appointment as President of the INF in 2003 (a post she held until July 2019) was a historic one as it made her the first Jamaican woman to lead an international sporting body, an achievement of true significance and testament to the pioneering figure she is.
A true trailblazer, Jean Hornsby paved the way for Black netballers in England through her journey to become the first Black player to represent England at the very top level of the sport. Jean’s talent, determination, and persistence in the face of challenges have made her international career one of such significance that it continues to inspire young Black players across the country today. Jean attended the opening game of the Vitality Netball Horizon Series in Manchester, where she was able to reflect on and celebrate her immense contributions to netball in England which England Netball are proud to recognise through the naming of this trophy.
Listen below as Vitality Roses Head Coach Jess Thirlby and Netball Jamaica Head Coach Sasher-Gaye Henry share an insight into Jean and Molly’s influence on netball in England and Jamaica, and reflect on the privilege of playing for the Rhone Hornsby Trophy in their honour.
England Netball and Netball Jamaica are proud to have named the trophy that England and Jamaica will compete for the honour of lifting after these two trailblazing individuals, celebrating the powerful impact Molly and Jean have had on our sport and adding an extra layer of pride and meaning to the battles that are taking place on court.
The Vitality Roses will play Jamaica at 23:30 GMT on Monday 25 November and at 00:00 GMT on Wednesday 27 November in the final two games of the Vitality Netball Horizon Series. Both games will be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website and app, and international viewers can watch on NetballPass.
