This week was the first time we got a glimpse of the full 2020 squad in action, with GIANTS legend Jo Harten returning from an extended break and trip back to England.
The week had a variety of activity with both the normal court and gym sessions, as well as a session with GIANTS Dietician Jess Spendlove and the GIANTS Netball 2020 media day.
Amy Parmenter, who had a breakout year in 2019, said it’s been another good week.
“Last week we were all really excited to get back and catch up with everyone again, and this week it was more a matter of getting down to business,” the defensive midcourter said.
“We all had the realisation at the start of the week that we’re off to New Zealand in a few weeks for our first practice match, so everyone kind of realises it’s now time to start to get everything sorted as it’s all going to come around really quick.”
This pre-season is quite different to the last in both duration and player availability.
“This year we are lucky to have everyone home and here, not tied up with any international commitments,” Parmenter said.
“With new dynamics and no Kimmy G (Kim Green) it’s allowing us more time to get to know each other and work on new combinations.
“I think it’s really exciting to have Maddie Hay in the mix, especially for me and J (Jamie-Lee Price).
“She’s right on our tails pushing us because she’s so keen to get out there. We’re all really pushing each other as it’s anyone’s spot out there.”
Parmenter spent her last few weeks of the Christmas break in Japan, with her training schedule executed in small Airbnb rooms.
“My main focus in these next couple of weeks is just building up that match fitness again,” she said.
“I haven’t done any proper match play stuff since October when I was at the Netball Australia Development Camp.”
Included this week was the first look at the 2020 dress as well as the media day.
“It was actually such a fun day,” Parmenter said.
“It was so chilled and there was such good vibes around the group.
“I am so obsessed with the new dress – I love the darker feature at the top.
“Denny (Peacock) and Valour Sport have done such an amazing job – we love Valour now.”
