The Sri Lanka Netball Association (SLNA) elections have concluded with a result that signals a massive shift in the sport’s internal power dynamics.
While the Presidential race saw a predictable change in leadership, it was the race for General Secretary that stole the headlines, as Damayanthi Jayathilaka delivered a crushing blow to her opposition, emerging as the most dominant figure in this election cycle.
The “Dammi” Dominance: A Mandate for Change
If the election results are any indication, the heartbeat of the association now pulses through the General Secretary’s office.
Damayanthi Jayathilaka didn’t just win; she commanded the floor.
Securing a staggering 17 votes, Damayanthi left her opponent, Shiromi Kuruppu, trailing far behind with a mere 7 votes. This nearly 2.5-to-1 margin suggests that the voting delegates have placed an immense amount of trust—and pressure—on Jayathilaka to overhaul the administrative framework of Sri Lankan netball.
“The numbers speak for themselves. While the Presidential race was decided, the General Secretary race was a statement. Damayanthi Jayathilaka has been handed a mandate that is hard to ignore.”
The Presidential Shift: Nethicumara Takes the Helm
In the battle for the top seat, Vajira Nethicumara emerged victorious to become the new President of the SLNA. Nethicumara secured 16 votes, comfortably outpacing her rival, Desika Vitharana, who managed to garner only 4 votes.
While Nethicumara’s victory is significant, the fact that she received one vote less than her General Secretary, Damayanthi, has already sparked whispers in the sporting community about where the true “frontline” influence lies within the new committee.Controversy & Challenges Ahead
The lopsided nature of these results raises questions about the “old guard” of the association. With the opposition practically sidelined—specifically in the Presidential race where Vitharana secured only 4 votes—the new leadership faces the challenge of proving they can lead with inclusivity rather than isolation.
The spotlight remains fixed on Damayanthi Jayathilaka. As the candidate with the highest individual vote count across the major posts, the netball fraternity will be looking to her to translate that popularity into progress. Can she bridge the gap between the administrative technicalities and the growth of the sport on the court?
One thing is certain: with “Dammi” at the administrative helm, the Sri Lanka Netball Association is entering a high-stakes chapter where performance will be the only currency that matters.
Post Candidate Votes Received Outcome General Secretary Damayanthi Jayathilaka 17 Winner General Secretary Shiromi Kuruppu 7 Defeated President Vajira Nethicumara 16 Winner President Desika Vitharana 4 Defeated