Amanda Pinkney has cemented her status as Jamaica’s premier locally-based goal shooter, impressing fans and opponents alike with her rifle-like accuracy. Her exquisite long-range shooting has earned widespread admiration, striking fear into the hearts of defenders.

With top goal shooters Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard, Shimona Nelson, Shanice Beckford, and Romelda Aiken-George plying their trade overseas, Pinkney has seamlessly stepped up to fill the void locally. Her impressive skillset, honed through tireless dedication, has made her a cornerstone of Jamaica’s Fast5 netball team.

Pinkney’s ability to sink crucial shots from beyond the circle has proven invaluable, often turning the tide of games in her team’s favour. As she prepares for her third consecutive Fast5 Netball World Series, Pinkney’s focus remains unwavering.

“So, this would be my third time going to the Fast5 Netball World Series,” she said, her voice filled with excitement.

“Well, it’s an amazing feeling when you get called up to represent your country. And, you know, I’m always excited when I get the opportunity to play with the girls,” the 24-year-old goal shooter told the Jamaica Observer.

The Fast5 Netball World Series, scheduled for November 9-10 at Christchurch’s Wolfbrook Arena in New Zealand, brings together the world’s top six Fast5 women’s teams: New Zealand, Australia, England, Jamaica, South Africa, and Uganda.

In this condensed format, each team fields five players at a time, with six-minute quarters and unlimited substitutions per quarter. The “power play” quarter allows teams to score double points, with goals shot from beyond the outer goal circle counting for six points.

As one of the most experienced players in the squad, Pinkney feels the pressure.

“I am one of the most experienced players that are going and it’s kind of pressuring for me, especially as a shooter. I have to be ready for the three pointers,” she said, her focus intensifying.

“So that’s why in training I’m actually shooting from outside the circle, and, you know, a good distance from the circle. And I push hard because people are going to look forward for me to be shooting the three-pointers or the two-pointers. So it’s kind of pressuring, but I mean, without pressure, what?” Pinkney further stated.

With her sights set on securing a medal, Pinkney’s determination is clear.

“It’s going to take the last bit of fight in us,” she declared. “We have to fight and stay focused. It’s not a long game, so once you go out there, give it your all and continue to focus.”

Pinkney acknowledged the challenges ahead but is confident in her team’s preparation.

“It’s going to be very hard but we want to go and do our best. The hard work is nothing right now. It’s going to be easier when we get over there, so if we train hard now, it will be easier,” she said.

Jamaica has failed to secure a top-three spot in Pinkney’s previous two appearances, but she’s determined to change that.

“We haven’t come up in the top three the last two times I played, but we defeated Australia last year with Gezelle Allison’s help, so we’re hoping this year we can get a medal,” she said.

For Pinkney, this tournament is about more than personal achievement; it’s about national pride.

“My number one goal is to come back with a medal. Win, lose, or draw, we are going to come home with a medal this year. It won’t be an easy task but we are willing to go the extra mile,” Pinkney ended.