1. At what age did you start playing netball? And how did you become involved?
I started playing netball when I was seven. My primary school, St Kevin's, had a netball club so I joined a team with my friends. The school's PE teacher was (and is) a netball tragic.
2. What was the first position you started playing? If that's not the position you play now, how and when did that change come about?
My first position was WA. In my under 12's grand final I was put in GA for the first time at half time (and we ended up winning!). At my next Eastwood Ryde rep training I asked to play GA or GS and have played in the shooting end ever since.
3. What has been the hardest part of your netball career to date?
Luckily I haven't had any major injuries, so the hardest part of my netball career to date would be non-selection. Until I made my first Netball NSW state team in U'17s, I had missed out on selection into both the Sydney Netball Academy and the U'15 NSW All Schools netball team. Whilst at the time I was devastated, in hindsight I think it was this non-selection that made me want to work harder to prove myself as a player.
4. What is your go to activity when you need to switch off from netball?
Going for a walk around the bay at Drummoyne, reading a book (currently Sharni Layton's new book!), watching water polo, or University study.
5. Who has been the most influential person (player or coach) on your career to date?
Coming through the Netball NSW pathway, I was lucky to have three coaches who all had a significant impact on my netball career to date - Nerida Stewart, Lenore Blades and Jen Wright. Ned was my coach for two of my state team campaigns and also at NSWIS. She was always very confident in my abilities, which in turn gave me the confidence I needed to perform well at a high level. Lenore was my ANL coach in 2019 where I started the season only playing a couple minutes here and there, and finished it playing a full game in the grand final. She really gave me my breakthrough opportunity. Jen was my coach in my final NSW state team campaign and always emphasised the importance of continual learning and challenging yourself in each and every training.
6. What's a key message you would tell your younger self in regards to netball?
I have always liked the quote 'You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.' So I would tell my younger self to take every opportunity with two hands. AND that it is okay to ignore your mum's advice and play ANL during your HSC year, despite her many concerns about the impact it would have on study. Both will turn out well.
7. What impact has netball had your life?
Netball has had a significant impact on my life, both on and off the court. I have made so many friends that I am sure will last a lifetime. Netball has given me an environment to constantly grow in, surrounded by girls who share my same passion. Off the court, netball has helped me learn the skill of good time management, and the importance of goal setting, working hard, commitment, resilience, and the ability to be self-motivated. It has also guided me into selecting sport science to study at University.
8. What is your greatest/proudest netball achievement?
My greatest/proudest achievement was when Julie asked me to join the GIANTS as part of the extended squad in the hub last year. It was then topped off when Julie called me to offer me a contract for the 2021 season.
9. What is the most memorable piece of advice you have received? Or most memorable quote that inspires you to train/play a certain way?
The most memorable quote would be 'Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.' I always try to work hard at training in order to give myself the best preparation for whatever opportunities come my way.
