Jamaica netball captain and star goal shooter Jhaniele Fowler-Nembhard has announced she is expecting her second child.
The 35-year-old, who married Ashani Nembhard in Kingston on December 20, 2023, shared the news on Thursday, nearly a month after withdrawing from the Sunshine Girls squad for the Horizon Series against England on medical advice.
Fowler-Nembhard, a standout for West Coast Fever in Australia’s Suncorp Super Netball, has a daughter, Drehannah, from a previous relationship.
“My family and I are overjoyed and filled with excitement as we prepare to welcome a precious addition to our family,” she wrote on social media.
“While I will not be on the court playing next season, I will continue to support my teammates and the club the best I can. I look forward to being in and amongst our amazing fans, the Green Army, experiencing how electrifying RAC Arena is with the best netball supporters in the country cheering us on.”
Fowler-Nembhard, a five-time Super Netball Player of the Year, was instrumental in leading the Fever to their maiden championship in 2022.
West Coast Fever general manager Sue Gaudion said in a statement: “Everyone at Fever is absolutely thrilled for Jhaniele, Ashani, and Drehannah. We’ve always known that Jhaniele has dreamed of having another child, and seeing that dream come true is simply wonderful.
“This is such a special time for Jhaniele and her family, and our club will be there to support them every step of the way. Due to her pregnancy, Jhaniele will not be participating in the 2025 Suncorp Super Netball season. However, she will remain an integral part of the Fever family, lending her invaluable netball experience and knowledge to support our team.”
