The following is a statement from the Director of Sport, Neil Kumar, on the tragic passing of netball stalwart Shondell Samaroo
The National Sports Commission, on hearing of the tragic end of Shondel Samaroo, went into complete shock.
There were watery eyes, trembling mouths, questioning faces. No one was strong enough to ask how, why, when and where. There was total silence.
Shondel started her netball life in 2006. Because of her love, dedication and commitment to the game, she was elected vice president of the Guyana Netball Association in 2009 and at the last election, she became the secretary.
As an executive of the Guyana Netball Association, Shondel had regular contact with the National Sports Commission to discuss various issues.
Shondel impressed all as a steadfast individual. Her discussions were always to the point and she had the ability to convince those with whom she spoke that her requests were genuine.
Shondel never encouraged confrontation. Instead she ensured that decisions were arrived in honesty and in a way in which all will benefit.
Shondel’s passion for netball was overt.
It pushed her into working tirelessly and selflessly for the game she adored and which had become a part of her very life. Such was her ardent love, that she took the brave decision and founded a netball club of her own in 2010 – the Eagle Netball Club.
Her final earthly assignment was that of manager of the National Under – 16 team which represented Guyana at the Caribbean Under – 16 Netball Championships held in St. Kitts.
On her return to Guyana on April 17, Shondel was called by the Almighty to serve in the Spiritual World.
Shondel’s death has indeed sent shockwaves across the sport community and especially to the netball fraternity.
Her passing must however, serve as motivation to all, especially our youth and women folks.
Her going to the great beyond must not only be seen as a loss, but more importantly, as an opportunity to take netball to the next level.
The National Sports Commission indeed regrets the death of Shondel Samaroo, one who showed respect and was equally respected.
The National Sports Commission wishes to express heartfelt condolences to her immediate and extended families, her netball family and all whose life she would have touched and impacted.
Shondel Samaroo has left us a legacy of a true champion.
May her happy soul have eternal rest.
