Shenice Gittens, Athletic Training Officer, and former UTT High-Performance Netball Scholarship Athlete.

The 22nd Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball Tournament was hosted in Trinidad and Tobago from April 11–17, 2026, at the University of the West Indies Sport and Physical Education Centre (UWI SPEC). The tournament brought together young athletes from across the region, with participating nations including Barbados, Grenada, Saint Lucia, Dominica, Antigua and Barbuda, and the Cayman Islands.

The University of Trinidad and Tobago was proudly represented by Ms Shenice Gittens, Athletic Training Officer, who provided professional support to the Cayman Islands Netball Association (CINA) throughout the tournament.

Ms. Gittens was responsible for overseeing athlete welfare during morning training sessions and delivering court-side athletic training support during scheduled matches. Having competed in the Jean Pierre Tournament as a player approximately fifteen years ago, Ms Gittens approached this opportunity with deep personal and professional commitment. While her primary role was athletic training, she extended her support to include mentorship and guidance, particularly for athletes experiencing regional competition at this level for the first time.

Shenice Gittens providing ankle taping support to an athlete during competition.

Ms Gittens' contributions encompassed injury prevention education, match preparedness, gameplay insight, and effective match management support. In addition, Ms Gittens provided technical assistance during the shooting competition, where her preparation of the shooters contributed to performances that exceeded expectations.

Her overall impact on the team was significant and instrumental in the Cayman Islands earning the Most Improved Team and Most Disciplined Team awards. Over the course of the seven-day tournament, Ms Gittens established strong professional relationships and made a meaningful, lasting impact on both athletes and staff. Her departure was marked by an emotional response, reflecting the value of her contribution and the respect she earned during her time with the team.

Ms Gittens photographed with members of the Cayman Islands Netball Team's technical staff following the tournament.

Rehabilitation staff within UTT's Sport and Recreation Unit are extremely proud of Ms Gittens for her exemplary service and professional contribution to the Cayman Islands Netball Association, the sport of netball, and the advancement of regional unity through sport.