national programme if they are to build Bermuda into a legitimate power on the international scene.

That is the view of Herman Eve, who helped coach the Bermuda side during their recent tour of Montserrat where they competed in the Caribbean Netball Championships.

Bermuda emerged winless from eight matches against teams representing various Caribbean nations, however Eve said the young team acquitted themselves well and could only improve if they continued to work together on a regular basis.

"The results didn't indicate how well they really played,'' said Eve, who shared the team's coaching duties with Braxton Stowe. "There were some problems in defence and attack, but the girls played well, especially against the top opposition.

"I don't think they should disband them at all, but keep them together and have them continue to work out. But that is entirely up to the association and what they want to do.

"For the future...maybe with a few additions it will definitely be a good team.'' The preparation by Bermuda was in stark contrast to that of the other countries taking part, with most of the opposition having spent at least six months training for the event, while the local team practiced a mere seven weeks prior to the venture.

Convincing defeats served to emphasise this deficiency and much improvement is needed if they are to stand a better chance in future competitions.

One of those certainly not satisfied with the showing in Montserrat was BNA president Larry Dennis, the team's former coach.

"I'm not thrilled with it,'' said Dennis yesterday. "I started training the team earlier this year and then there was a bit of controversy and I resigned.

"I'm not pleased with the administrative workings with the teams, but we'll meet on it and work something out.'' A consul meeting next week is likely and Dennis said he expected them to keep the squad together.

Bermuda sent a nine member outfit to the Caribbean and although they finished at the bottom of the tables they did bring back one trophy, that for fair play and good conduct.

"If this is the best team then we'll keep it as it is, but if not there will be some changes,'' continued Dennis. "Next year there is the Commonwealth Games and we would like to get there.

"Performances like this last one will not help us get funds from the Olympic Association, so we'll probably have to go on our own.'' The Commonwealth Games are slated for Victoria, British Columbia, in August of next year, but Dennis added that there is a possibility of Bermuda entering a meet in Miami, Florida, next March, as well as hosting a foreign team.

Also, the following year has the World Championship being hosted by Belgium.

THEY'RE BACK -- Bermuda's national netball team is pictured at the airport with two trophies earned at the Caribbean Netball championships in Montserrat.

Standing, left to right, Herman Eve (coach), Tina Caines, Sherita Steede, Nicole DeGraff, Rose Richardson, Pettie Tucker, Penny Henry (team manager), Debbie DeShields, Braxton Stowe (coach). Kneeling, Chenita Zuill, Dion Butterfield, Debbie Saltus (tour manager), Patricia Pitcher.