The Championships have started ...

Although the 5th World Youth Championships haven't officially started, the unofficial start occured this evening with a Welcome Reception for all 20 nations - players, coaches, managers at the Sheraton Hotel, Fort Lauderdale Airport.

A warm welcome was provided by Albert Tucker, representing Broward County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Carole Hokrein then gave a very empassioned, emotional welcome to the Championships. For Carole, this event is the culmination of years of hard work, tireless effort and passion for Netball. Executives from Bank of America, the title sponsor joined Molly Rhone, President of International Federation of Netball Associations. Live dance entertainment was provided by the Fiji team followed by some impromptu dance entertainment from the St. Lucia team. Finally, Sonia Rodney-Johnson, President of USA Netball Association joined Hazelle Rogers, Commissioner of Lauderdale Lakes and Chairwoman of WYNC 2005 Organizing Committee in closing the evening and officially opening the largest World Youth Netball Championships. Bank of America are joining IFNA and USANA in making Netball history!

More later ...