O F F I C I A L
NSW Swifts v Adelaide Thunderbirds ANZ Championship - Round 12 Sunday 18 May, 2014 Volume 7, Issue 6
M A G A Z I N E
O F
T H E
N S W
S W I F T S
INSIDER
CAITLIN THWAITES
CROSSROADS
GRETEL TIPPETT
A SEASON OF LEARNING
SHARNI LAYTON BEING THE BEST SHE CAN
QBE Supporters’
moment of the match Vote for your NSW Swifts player of the match to win a prize pack on behalf of QBE ... QBE Competition Leader Board 1. Kimberlee Green 2. Caitlin Thwaites 3. Sharni Layton Voting closes 15 minutes before full time. Sporty Swift will award the winning supporter at the end of the match.
Enter by scanning the QR code J4839
Join the Netball NSW Corporate Family Let your business benefit from a relationship with Netball NSW by becoming a Corporate Partner.
We have successfully welcomed both international and home-grown brands to our Corporate Family, and can show you a return on your investment. For further information on how we can tailor a partnership package to fit your needs, please contact Tristan on 02 9951 5000 or email sales@netballnsw.com.
Welcome After two tough games on the road in both Melbourne and Perth, it is great to be playing at home, and at this magnificent venue this afternoon. There is nothing like competing in front of our fantastic Members and fans that provide such wonderful support from the RED ZONE. Speaking of support... today could see us break our Club record for the biggest attendance at a home game during the regular season, and we could also be a chance of breaking the ANZ Championship record for the biggest attendance at a regular season match. Let us hope we are all part of creating history today! Based upon past history, today’s game against the Adelaide Thunderbirds is going to be a great spectacle. The Thunderbirds are the reigning ANZ Championship Premiers and defeated us by one goal, 50-49, during our Round 3 clash at Adelaide’s Netball SA Stadium. It was a game that really tested our depth. We were already missing two key players in Paige Hadley (knee) and Sharni Layton (thumb) and then we sustained two game-ending injuries within the first 18 minutes to both Brooke Miller and Taylah Davies. The ability of the team to fight from that position was an amazing effort. I expect today’s game will be another classic encounter between these two Australian rivals.
A key to winning today’s match will be our battle with Erin Bell. Erin has had another outstanding season for the Thunderbirds, and her creativity, along with her shooting ability has been a real feature of her play. Our defenders will need to be switched on from the first centre pass to contain her influence on the game. Your NSW Swifts are really going to need everyone’s support today and I would encourage everyone inside Allphones Arena to cheer, clap and scream out their words of encouragement throughout the game. On behalf of the players and the coaching staff, thank you in advance for this unbelievable support. Lastly, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Jane Woodlands-Thompson, her staff, players and the fans of the Adelaide Thunderbirds and hope everyone enjoys the game. Go Swifts!
Rob Wright Head Coach
IN THIS ISSUE 4
NEWS CENTRAL
Get all the latest NSW Swifts’ news from both on and off the court.
5
SHARNI LAYTON
Dynamic defender Sharni Layton talks about becoming a Life Coach and the importance of goal setting.
7
SWIFTS TO SPARKLE AT COMMONWEALTH GAMES
Swifts Insider catches up with the Swifts’ Commonwealth Games Netball Team contingent.
9 & 12 MATCH CENTRE
Team profiles, Coaching Bench, Headto-Head History and the One to Watch.
14
CROSSROADS
Caitlin Thwaites talks about the decision-making process to pursue netball over volleyball.
16
SUE KENNY OAM
Swifts Insider takes a trip down memory lane and catches up with Netball NSW Hall of Famer and former Sydney Sandpiper, Sue Kenny OAM.
17
The Club are rewarding fans for coming early to our home games with the First 500 supporters receiving a gift!
LIGHT UP ALLPHONES
So far this season, fans have been able to get their hands on a Sporty Swift Face Mask, limited edition “I Love Swifts” badge, Swifts’ Shoelaces from The Athlete’s Foot, an ANZ NetSetGO Skills card and a special one-off Swifts v Steel ANZAC Day Team Poster.
The NSW Swifts will be Lighting-up Allphones Arena with Glow Sticks as part of today’s Blockbuster. Upon arriving to the venue, you would have collected your FREE Glow Stick* from the events staff at the turnstiles.
Today’s First 500 gift is a pen with thanks to Club Partner Nova 96.9. Make sure you come along early to our final home game of the regular season at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre next Sunday, 25 May, to see what special gift is on offer next!
We would love all Members and fans to be seated with their Glow Stick by 1:45pm to take part in something special before the NSW Swifts and Adelaide Thunderbirds enter the Arena at 1:52pm. We can’t tell you much more, be listening to the Courtside Announcer for more details! *1 per person
GRETEL TIPPETT
In her debut ANZ Championship season, Gretel Tippett tells Swifts Insider how this year has been a season of learning both on and off court.
18
SWIFT IN THE KITCHEN
The baby of this year’s Swifts’ roster, Maddie Hay, shares her own winter warmer recipe.
INSIDER
THE TEAM EDITOR Rebecca Trbojevich WRITERS Victoria Bain, Sharni Layton, Kimberley Lewis, Rebecca Trbojevich, Rob Wright DESIGNER Michael Costa ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Sarah Sugar PRODUCTION Imagination Graphics PHOTOGRAPHY SMP Images, Fiora Sacco, Pat Thwaites, Netball Australia/Dave Callow, Simon Harrington, Michael Costa
CONTACT US PHONE +61 2 9951 5000 EMAIL nswswifts@netballnsw.com WEBSITE nswswifts.com.au TWITTER @thenswswifts FACEBOOK /nswswifts YOUTUBE /nswswiftstv INSTAGRAM @nswswifts MAIL Swifts Insider Editor, PO Box 396 Lidcombe NSW 1825
News Central GREEN FRONTS NSW HEALTH CAMPAIGN
CONGRATULATIONS!
NSW Swifts’ Captain Kimberlee Green has been named as one of three ambassadors for NSW Health’s Finish with the Right Stuff Program.
Congratulations to NSW Swifts’ Assistant Coach Megan Anderson, Contracted Defensive Specialist Coach Mo’onia Gerrard, and defender Sonia Mkoloma who recently completed their Netball Australia Advanced Coaching Accreditation.
the weekend, it’s really important children refuel their bodies with the right stuff. Not only does the body need nutritious food to recover properly after exercise, it also has long term health benefits.”
NSW Health recently launched its Finish with the Right Stuff Program featuring Kim, AFL star Jude Bolton and NRL player Nathan Hindmarsh, to encourage kids not to undo all their good work by making unhealthy choices after their game of weekend sport.
To assist Clubs in making sure their players are running on the right stuff, NSW Health is running 2.5 hour healthy canteen workshops for junior community Netball sporting clubs which sign up to the program.
At the State launch, Kim said she’s concerned about the levels of childhood obesity.
As an added incentive, clubs who adopt the program are eligible to receive funding and other support such as merchandise.
“Leading a healthy lifestyle is not just about getting regular exercise. After playing sport, whether it’s at school or on
Additional information on Finish with the Right Stuff can be found at: www.rightstuff.health.nsw.gov.au
facebook.com/NSWSwifts twitter.com/theNSWSwifts instagram.com/NSWSwifts youtube.com/NSWSwiftsTV
Nathan Hindmarsh, Kimberlee Green and Jude Bolton at the lanuch of Finish with the Right Stuff campaign.
STANDING TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR THE MAGIC!
QBE SUPPORTERS’ MOMENT OF THE MATCH
Due to overwhelming demand, the NSW Swifts will make available a limited number of standing room tickets for our final regular season home game against the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic next Sunday 25 May (2:18pm).
Vote at every home game for your NSW Swifts player of the match to win a prize pack on behalf of QBE. Enter by scanning
These tickets are priced at $15* each and can only be purchased in person on
the QR Code or via the URL on the inside cover of Swifts Insider. Listen out at the end of the match to see if you’re a winner!
Sunday 25 May from the Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre Box Office when it opens at 12:30pm. *Credit Card transaction fees do apply.
There are still a very limited number of seats available to purchase for this game from www.swiftstickets.com.au
Sporty Swift original pose
Get involved in
Crazy Hair and Sock Day 31st May 2014 Netball NSW and the NSW Swifts have partnered with The Kids’ Cancer Project to assist in fundraising for vital world-leading research into childhood cancer.
Register your team today thekidscancerproject.org.au/netballnsw Or call: 02 8394 7777
thekidscancerproject.org.au/netballnsw
4
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au TKCP-5-091 Netball Ad_FINAL 2014.indd 1
11/03/14 1:11 PM
Sharni Layton BEING THE BEST SHE CAN She maybe from Melbourne via Adelaide, but during her first season as a Swift, Sharni Layton is fast becoming a fan favourite with the NSW faithful.
“A friend of mine, Aiden Blizzard, who also had two shoulder surgeries during his cricket career, recommended I do a Life Coaching course.”
Sharni credits her parents, Karin and Mark, for shaping her core values, and refers to them as “the perfect blend”.
Not only is she one of the world’s best defenders, but her effervescence and infectious personality has a lasting impact on everyone she comes into contact with.
At first the then 24-year-old was apprehensive about the suggestion, but within minutes of speaking to a course leader at the Coaching Institute of Australia, Sharni knew it was exactly what she wanted to do.
“I’m fortunate to have such wonderful parents, and in equal measure both have shaped who I am today,” smiled Sharni.
Swifts’ Members and fans will have witnessed firsthand the buoyancy of this 26-year-old, as she cries out words of encouragement to her teammates for the full four-quarters. “A lot of people say to me ‘how do you yell all the time?’” Sharni said. “But for me it’s a two-way process; when you focus on others, you don’t realise how tired you are. And by giving energy to others, they then give it back to you – it’s a cyclical effect.” It’s this positive mindset and desire to help others reach their own potential which has led Sharni to study Life Coaching. “While I played the entire 2012 season with a bad shoulder, it wasn’t until I went into Diamonds Camp that I was told I really needed surgery and would miss the International season,” explained Sharni. “I was absolutely gutted but made a conscious decision to use this time away from the court to further myself.
“I actually thought doing this Life Coaching course would be good for my own personal development, as I wanted to keep growing and become a real leader in netball. But Life Coaching is really about helping other people which is an important value to me.” While many elite netballers give back to the community through coaching clinics and courses, Sharni is currently finalising her own business called “Sharnz”, which will see her deliver tailored workshops focused more on the mental aspects of netball, and in turn life. “What I really want to do is to be able to pass my knowledge onto kids, and help them with empowerment and self-belief. If they learn these values and have these tools from an early age, they will have these for life.”
“Mum played a key role in developing my compassionate and caring side. She would always encourage me to try new things and was the biggest influence on shaping my decision-making process, whereas Dad was a successful sales rep and taught me a lot about goal setting and having a strong, disciplined work ethic.” As Sharni takes to the court today against her former Club, the Adelaide Thunderbirds, she will be the perfect embodiment of her life motto. “‘Be the best you can be’ - because for me it’s really important that people enjoy what they are doing – once you lose that feeling, you’ll never reach your true potential,” concluded Sharni. Rebecca Trbojevich
“By using netball as the vehicle, I want to teach people about goal setting, time management and organisation. There will be modules on visualisation, teamwork, leadership, nutrition and even relaxation techniques.”
Photo of Sharni Layton supplied by Simon Harrington of nightminds.com.au
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
INSIDER
5
6
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
Glasgow-bound! Three Swifts selected in Commonwealth Games Netball Team This July, NSW Swifts’ athletes Kimberlee Green, Sharni Layton and Caitlin Thwaites will don the green and gold at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games as members of the Australian Netball Team. The trio were selected in the 12-strong Team as announced by Head Coach Lisa Alexander on Wednesday 7 May at Parliament House in Canberra. “The selection of Kim, Sharni and Caitlin in the Commonwealth Games Netball Team is richly deserved, they have all worked incredibly hard over a number of years with this goal in mind,” said NSW Swifts’ Head Coach Rob Wright. “To have three NSW Swifts named in this 12-player Team is a very proud moment for all involved with the Club, and is testament to the performance of our entire roster this season.” For Swifts’ captain Kimberlee Green, selection in this Team will see the 28-year-old compete in Scotland, a country where her mother Denyse Langford, won multiple swimming medals at the 1974 Commonwealth Games held in Edinburgh. “To have the opportunity to represent not only your sport but your country at a Commonwealth Games is something incredibly special,” said Green. “But to follow in my mother’s footsteps and attend a
Commonwealth Games in Scotland will be a proud moment for my entire family.”
Swifts. All who have been a crucial part of my growth and learning, on and off the court.”
For 2014 Swifts’ recruit Caitlin Thwaites, this year’s Games will be her first and brings to fruition a goal the 27-year-old shooter has had since she first started playing.
Unfortunately fellow 2014 Australian Diamonds squad member, Susan Pratley, missed out on selection in this Team, with Rob Wright paying tribute to the shooter who has starred for the Swifts this season.
“I’m really excited and honoured to be named in this amazing group of talented girls,” said Caitlin.
“I’m naturally disappointed for Susan,” said Wright. “She put in a huge amount of work into all aspects of her game during the off-season and that showed during her performances for us this year.”
“This has been a lifelong dream of mine and while I’ve always focused on doing my best for my Club, I guess in the back of your mind you secretly hope that those performances will help your Aussie chances.” Another athlete making her Commonwealth Games debut is defender Sharni Layton. Layton, who has had to overcome plenty of injury adversity during her netball career to-date, is grateful to all those who have been part of her support network. “It’s a very humbling feeling,” expressed Sharni. “There is such depth and talent in Australian netball, and to be chosen to represent your country at the Commonwealth Games is such an honour.” “I share this recognition with everyone who has been part of my netball journey to date, right from my grassroots in Victoria, the AIS, Adelaide and the NSW
Australia opens its 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games campaign against Wales on Thursday 24 July before the remaining pool matches against England (26 July), Barbados (27 July), Trinidad & Tobago (28 July) and South Africa (30 July). Australian Commonwealth Games Netball Team:
Laura Geitz (Firebirds) – Captain, Bianca Chatfield (Vixens) – Vice-Captain, Caitlin Bassett (Fever), Tegan Caldwell (Vixens), Julie Corletto (Mystics), Kimberlee Green (Swifts), Renae Hallinan (Thunderbirds), Sharni Layton (Swifts), Natalie Medhurst (Fever), Kimberley Ravaillion (Firebirds), Madison Robinson (Vixens), Caitlin Thwaites (Swifts) Name (ANZ Championship Club)
Rebecca Trbojevich
NSW Swifts’ Caitlin Thwaites, Kimberlee Green & Sharni Layton at the 2014 Commonwealth Games Netball Team announcement at Parliament House, Canberra
Netball Australia/Dave Callow
!
WATCH THE SWIFTS CA ST A SPELL OVER THE MAGIC
NSW SWIFTS V WBOP MAGIC Sun 25 May, SOPSC, Start 2:18pm, Doors Open 12:30pm PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au swiftstickets.com.au
INSIDER
7
SWIFTS
TEAM LEADERS
BRAND IDENTITY - ADELAIDE THUNDERBIRDS
2014 Stats
AVERAGE PER GAME
THUNDERBIRDS
INTERCEPTS
STATS PACK
Sharni Layton 3.29
Kate Shimmon 1.75
DEFLECTIONS April Letton 2.67
Kate Shimmon 4.50
PICK UPS Kim Green 1.78
Bec Bulley 2
REBOUNDS Sharni Layton 1.43
MVP HONOURS
Carla Borrego 3
CIRCLE EDGE FEEDS Sarah Wall 17.33
Leigh Waddington 18
CENTRE PASS RECEIVES
Kim Green – 4 (Rnds 4, 7, 8 & 10) Susan Pratley – 3 (Rnds 1, 2 and 11) Caitlin Thwaites – 1 (Rnd 3)
Susan Pratley 19.78
Erin Bell 17.78
PENALTIES – TOTAL Sharni Layton 15.57
Bec Bulley 15.22 *As at 9/5/2014
H EAD
TO HEAD
9 WINS
TOP 3 ANZC CAPS
5 WINS
in favour of the Adelaide Thunderbirds
Susan Pratley
93
Bec Bulley
96
Kimberlee Green
91
Renae Hallinan
93
Sonia Mkoloma
91
Andrea Gilmore
76
2014 GOAL AVERAGES
Susan Pratley 269/311
Erin Bell 238/289
84% 86%
Caitlin Thwaites 269/311
SWIFTS RESULTS
LAST 10 MEETINGS 2009 L
W
W
2014
W
L
L
L
L
L
Spot Colour Version
PANTONE 205C 204C 1895C Black 6C White
Process Version
C/M/Y/K
%
L
as at 13/5/2014
P
W
L
GF
GA
GD
Pts Form (last 5)
Melbourne Vixens
10
7
3
553
438
115 126.30%
14
Waikato BOP Magic
10
7
3
555
502
53
110.60%
14
L
NSW Swifts
10
7
3
554
511
43 108.40%
14
L
Queensland Firebirds
11
7
4
575
535
40
107.50%
14
L
Central Pulse
10
6
4
532
519
13
102.50%
12
W W
L
W W
Southern Steel
11
5
6
663
685
-22
96.80%
10
b
W
L
W W
Adelaide Thunderbirds
10
4
6
512
548
-36 93.40%
8
b
L
L
W
L
Northern Mystics
10
4
6
542
599
-57 90.50%
8
W
L
W
L
b
West Coast Fever
10
3
7
541
552
-11
98.00%
6
W
b
L
L
L
Mainland Tactix
10
1
9
529
667
-138 79.30%
2
L
L
L
L
L
W W W
54 Fever
51
Tactix
57 Swifts
68
Thunderbirds
50 Swifts
49
Swifts
53 Firebirds
48
W W L
Swifts
50 Vixens
56
Firebirds
55 Swifts
40
Swifts
65 Steel
52
L
L
Swifts
54 Vixens
50
Fever
47 Swifts
58
W W W
W W W W
0/28/2/0 100/0/0/100 White
*Arrows indicate positional changes within the 2014 ANZ Championship Ladder from Rd 10 to the conclusion of Rd 11. Ladder does not include any results from Rd 12.
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
Swifts
b
0/59/5/0
INSIDER
Away Team
L
0/83/17/0
8
Home Team
Bye
2014 ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP LADDER Team
82% 81%
Carla Borrego 262/323
ROUND 11 RESULTS Home Team
Away Team
Thunderbirds
52 Firebirds
58
Tactix
50 Pulse
58
Fever
47 Swifts
58
Steel
62 Magic
57
Bye - Vixens & Mystics
Team Match Centre NSW Swifts
/NSWSwifts
Nickname: Woki Date of Birth: 29/8/82 Height: 186cm Position/Role: GS/GA ANZ Championship Caps: 31
Nickname: Lee, Kimmy Date of Birth: 5/3/86 Height: 176cm Position/Role: C/WA ANZ Championship Caps: 91 International Caps: 56
Netball Career facts: 2013 Fast5 Flyers World Series Silver Medallist 2011 Austalian Fastnet Team 2011 NNSW Waratahs Captain, Australian Netball League Premiers
Carla Dziwoki
@carladziwoki
Kimberlee Green C
Netball Career facts: 2013 Aus Diamonds (tour of Eng) 2010-2012 FastNet Diamonds team 2011 NSW 21/U Team Captain - Premiers 2011 Australian 21/U Team 2010 AIS Anne Clark Award
Susan Pratley
@aprilletton
Netball Career facts: 2014 Aus Comm. Games Selection Camp Invitee 2013 ANZ C’ship debut (Firebirds) 2012 NNSW Waratahs ANL team 2010-2011 NNSW Blues ANL team
Netball Career facts: 2013 21/U Aus Squad 2012/13 Aus Institute of Sport scholarship holder 2011 NSW 19/U Team Captain national champions 2010 NSW 19/U Team 2008-2009 NSW 17/U Team
Abbey McCulloch
@abbey_McCulloch
Netball Career facts: 2014 Aus Diamonds Squad 2013 Fast5 Flyers World Series Silver Medallist and Co-Captain 2008 ANZ C’ship Premiership 2007 World C’ships Gold Medallist 2006, 2010 Comm. Games Silver
Netball Career facts: 2014 Aus. Comm. Games Team 2012-14 Aus Diamonds 2009 ANZ C’ship Premiership (Vixens)
Caitlin Thwaites
@caitlinthwaites
Brooke Miller
@brooklynKmiller
Gretel Tippett
Brett Doring
Mo’onia Gerrard
Toni Kidwell
Daniel Vukovic
Megan Simpson
Physiotherapist
Nickname: Son Date of Birth: 17/1/79 Height: 183cm Position/Role: GD/GK ANZ Championship Caps: 91 International Caps: 111 (Eng) Netball Career facts: 2013 Eng Netball Hall of Fame Bronze medal at 2009 & 2011 World Netball Championships Bronze medal at the Comm. Games (2006 & 2010)
Sonia Mkoloma
@soniamkoloma
Netball Career facts: 2009 Vixens Premiership Victoria 21/U, 19/U and 17/U Teams
Anita Keelan
Team Manager
@sharni_layton
Netball Career facts: 2013 Fast5 Flyers World Series Silver Medallist 2013 World Youth Netball C’ship Silver Medallist
Jason Howell
Physiotherapist
Sharni Layton
Nickname: Wallsy Date of Birth: 16 October 1984 Height: 175cm Position/Role: C/WA/WD ANZ Championship Caps: 36
Paula Peralta Physiotherapist
Netball Career facts: 2014 Aus. Comm. Games Team 2014 NSW Swifts Leadership Group 2011, 2013-14 Aus Diamonds 2011 World C’ship Gold Medallist 2010, 2013 Two time ANZ C’ship Premiership Player (Thunderbirds)
Nickname: Grets Date of Birth: 3/7/93 Height: 192cm Position/Role: GA/GS ANZ Championship Caps: 3
Megan Anderson
Technical Assistant Coach
Head Coach
@maddiehay345 Nickname: Brookie Date of Birth: 14/4/92 Height: 173cm Position/Role: WA/C ANZ Championship Caps: 4
Nickname: Caity Date of Birth: 29/12/86 Height: 188cm Position/Role: GS ANZ Championship Caps: 89 International Caps: 4
@SusanSwifts
Maddie Hay
@NSWSwifts Nickname: Sharnz Date of Birth: 6/1/88 Height: 187cm Position/Role: GK/GD/WD ANZ Championship Caps: 63 International Caps: 12
Netball Career facts: 2012-2013 Netball NSW Blues ANL team 2013 Aus 19/U Squad 2013 NSW 19/U Team 2012 Aus 17/U Squad 2011-2012 NSW 17/U Team National Champions 2012
Nickname: Abs Date of Birth: 12/2/90 Height: 178cm Position/Role: WD/GD ANZ Championship Caps: 21
Nickname: Prats Date of Birth: 23/3/84 Height: 180cm Position/Role: GA/GS ANZ Championship Caps: 93 International Caps: 54
Assistant Coach
Rob Wright
@kimmygee8
/NSWSwiftsTV Nickname: Mads Date of Birth: 11/04/95 Height: 174cm Position/Role: WD/C ANZ Championship Caps: 2
Netball Career facts: 2014 Aus Comm. Games Team 2014 NSW Swifts Captain 2011 World C’ship Gold Medallist 2010 Comm. Games Silver Medallist 2008 ANZ C’ship Premiership
Nickname: Ape, Pril, Prilly Date of Birth: 19/4/90 Height: 185cm Position/Role: GK/GD/WD ANZ Championship Caps: 26 International Caps: 1
April Letton
@theNSWSwifts
Strength & Conditioning Coach
Contracted Defensive Specialist Coach
Contracted Midcourt Specialist Coach
@gretskies11
Sarah Wall
@SarahLWall
Bjorn Maddern Performance Analyst
On Friday 4 April, the NSW Swifts announced Sarah Wall as the permanent replacement for injured player Paige Hadley for the remainder of the 2014 ANZ Championship.
NSW Swifts v ADELAIDE THUNDERBIRDS ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP MATCHUP HIGHLIGHTS Matches: 14 Series Record: 5-9 Swifts Home Record against the Thunderbirds: 3-4 Swifts Streak against the Thunderbirds: L-L-L-L-L First Meeting: 26/05/2008 Swifts win 50-44 at ETSA Park, Adelaide Last Meeting: 17/04/2014 Thunderbirds win 50-49 at Netball SA Stadium, Adelaide The last time these two teams met... the NSW Swifts fell one goal short, losing to the reigning premiers 50-49 in Round 3 of the 2014 ANZ Championship. It was a fierce 60-minute contest and the Swifts were resilient, coming back from two early injury setbacks at Wing Attack to close the game from six goals to level at halftime, 31-31. The home team escaped away to a five-goal lead at the final break, 44-39. The Swifts worked tirelessly in the fourth quarter and closed the gap in the dying minutes but after Thunderbirds shooter Carla Borrego scored the go-ahead goal, the team in red was unable to add to their tally, losing by the narrowest of margins.
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
INSIDER
9
GO
SWI
@theNSWSwifts 10
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
O
IFTS
#goNSWSwifts VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
INSIDER
11
Team Match Centre Adelaide Thunderbirds Date of Birth: 9/4/87 Height: 180cm Positions: WA/C ANZ Championship Caps: 76
Date of Birth: 30/4/87 Height: 178cm Positions: GA/GS/WA ANZ Championship Caps: 70 International Test Caps: 23
Netball Career Facts: 2010, 2013 ANZ Championship Premiership Player (Thunderbirds) 2011 Aus Fastnet Diamonds Team 2004-2005 AIS Scholarship 2005 World Youth Cup Bronze Medallist
Emily Beaton
Erin Bell Date of Birth: 27/10/88 Height: 181cm Positions: WD/GD ANZ Championship Caps: 77
Netball Career Facts: 2013 Adelaide Thunderbirds Club Champion 2010, 2013 ANZ Championship Premiership Player (Thunderbirds) 2003 World Netball C’ship Player (Jam) 2001-2003 Jam National Netball Team
Carla Borrego
Date of Birth: 18/7/86 Height: 178cm Positions: WD/C ANZ Championship Caps: 93 International Test Caps: 44
Netball Career Facts: 2009 Aus 21/U World Youth Cup Championship Gold Medallist 2009 Aus 21/U Player of the year 2008-2013 West Coast Fever Player
Andrea Gilmore
Netball Career Facts: 2014 Aus Diamonds Squad 2011 – 2013 Aus Diamonds Team 2013 ANZ C’Ship Player of the Year (Aus) 2010, 2013 ANZ C’ship Premiership Player (Tbirds) 2011 World Netball C’ship Gold 2008 ANZ C’ship Premiership (Swifts)
Netball Career Facts: 2013 ANZ C’ship Premiership (Tbirds) 2009-2010, 2012-Current Aus Diamonds Netball Team 2009, 2013 Int. Player of the Year 2010 Comm. Games Silver Medallist 2009 ANZ C’ship Premiership (Vixens)
Renae Hallinan
Date of Birth: 24/10/94 Height: 183cm Positions: GS/GA ANZ Championship Caps: 7
Date of Birth: 14/3/91 Height: 182cm Positions: GS/GA ANZ Championship Caps: 4
Netball Career Facts: 2013/14 21/U National Champions (SA) 2012/2013 Aus 21/U Team 2013 AIS Scholarship 2013 World Youth Netball C’Ship Silver Medallist 2012 ANL Premiership Player (Southern Force)
Netball Career Facts: 2013 Premiership Player 2012 ANL Premiership Player (Southern Force) 2012 Subway Cup State League Leading Goal Shooter
Cody Lange
Laura Packard
Date of Birth: 4/12/93 Height: 174cm Positions: C/WA/WD ANZ Championship Caps: 21
Date of Birth: 13/2/92 Height: 186cm Positions: GK/GD ANZ Championship Caps: 26
Netball Career Facts: 2013 ANZ C’ship Premiership Player 2013 ANZ Championship Nomination for Best New Talent 2011 Australian 21/U Team 2011 AIS Scholarship
Netball Career Facts: 2014, 2013 21/U National Champion (South Australia) 2012, 2013 Aus 21/U Captain 2013 World Youth Netball C’Ship Silver Medallist 2012 ANL Premiership Player (Southern Force) 2010 17/U National Champions (SA)
Netball Career Facts: 2013 ANZ C’ship Premiership Player 2013 21/U Aus Team 2013 World Youth Netball C’Ship Silver Medallist 2012 Aus Fastnet Diamonds
Kate Shimmin
Madeleine Proud Judy Greenwood Assistant Coach
Netball Career Facts: 2014 Aus Diamonds Squad 2013 ANZ C’ship Premiership (Tbirds) 2010 ANZ C’ship Player of the Year 2008 ANZ C’ship Premiership (Swifts) 2008-2011, 2012-2013 Aus Diamonds Team 2010 Comm. Games Silver Medallist
Rebecca Bulley
Date of Birth: 4/3/91 Height: 189cm Positions: GK/GD ANZ Championship Caps: 9
Samantha Poolman
Date of Birth: 18/8/82 Height: 186cm Positions: GD/GK ANZ Championship Caps: 96 International Test Caps: 37
Date of Birth: 11/11/83 Height: 193cm Positions: GS/GA ANZ Championship Caps: 67
Catherine Foreman Team Manager
Tim Rawlins Analyst
BRAND IDENTITY - ADELAIDE THUNDERBIRDS
Dan Ryan Assistant Coach
Jane Woodlands-Thompson Tania Obst Assistant Coach
Head Coach
Andrew Maynard Strength and Conditioning Coach
Andrew Hopkins Physiotherapist
Player Caps as at 16/4/2014
Onetowatch
Erin Bell is an outstanding consistent performer for the Thunderbirds and the only player in the history of the ANZ Championship to win three Premierships. She has a great combination with Carla Borrego and balances her ability to feed Carla with the capacity to be the go-to shooter during matches. Erin is cool under pressure and does a mountain of work off both the Thunderbirds centre pass and in their long court attack, while being relentless in defence. We will need to ensure we do the work on her outside the circle to limit her ability to set up their attack end and goal scoring.
Rob Wright 12
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
Your Third The Swifts and Thunderbirds have a great rivalry as seen recently in our last three contests, finishing with margins of three goals or less. That paints a picture about the even balance between the two playing rosters, and what an exciting contest awaits us today at Allphones Arena. The Swifts group are keen to get one back over our South Australian rivals after the Thunderbirds held out in the final minutes of our Round 3 contest in Adelaide to take honours by one goal. Even though we lost that battle, the game really set an example of the Swifts’ dogged determination and fighting attitude after first losing Brooke Miller, then young replacement player Taylah Davies to knee injuries. Since Round 3, it is us who have claimed more wins, with the Thunderbirds suffering consecutive losses; however they have been unlucky in recent rounds and you can never discount the defending champions. The Thunderbirds have played five matches since then and, after experimenting with combinations
due to injuries and the retirement of Captain Natalie von Bertouch. In recent weeks, 2014 captain Renae Hallinan has gone back to her more familiar Wing Defence bib, and we all know how imposing the reigning Liz Ellis Diamond recipient is in that position. Combine that with youngster Maddy Proud, who has really impressed me with her growing maturity and the return of Emily Beaton to Wing Attack, and you have a strong midcourt combination. The Thunderbirds are very good defensive players – their strong hands over pressure and one-onone defence are highlights. Proud is also very fast and has a quick pass and drive, Beaton is a creative player, while Hallinan’s work ethic sees her in almost every contest.
successful in finding the circle edge to feed our shooters. It’s all about our double play movement and ensuring we are not relying on pocket leads – Thunderbird defenders Kate Shimmin and Bec Bulley will come out hunting for those long passes into our attacking third. In defence it’s about doing the opposite and keeping their feeders off the circle edge. Once there, the Thunderbirds can be damaging at finding Goal Shooter Carla Borrego and NSW junior Erin Bell, particularly the Goal Attack who can sink a shot from anywhere within the circle.
For the Swifts it’s very simple; do those things that we do well. We show when we have quick ball speed and taking the drives on we can be really
Megan Simpson
Contracted Midcourt Specialist Coach
POWERED BY TELSTRA
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
INSIDER
13
Have you ever come to a Crossroad in your life when you have to make a decision which could impact the rest of your life? During the 2014 ANZ Championship, Swifts Insider will be sitting down with members of the 2014 Swifts’ roster to find their Crossroad Moment and how it’s impacted their netball journey.
CAITLIN THWAITES THE STORY (IN SHORT)
Caitlin had to balance both her volleyball and netball commitments throughout her teenage years. At age 15, Caitlin was in the 17/U Australian Volleyball Team and represented the Australian Schoolgirls Netball Team. Caitlin started training with the Melbourne Kestrels in the former National Netball League at age 15 and made her debut in the same year. The following year, at age 16, Caitlin put her netball aspirations on hold to move to the Australian Institute of Sport for volleyball and lived in Canberra from November 2002 – February 2004, captaining her age group to win a gold medal at the Youth Olympics in 2003. During 2004 Caitlin moved back to Melbourne and was picked up again by the Melbourne Kestrels where she continued her netball dream. Caitlin later went on to win the ANZ Championship with the Melbourne Vixens in 2009 before playing with the Central Pulse in Wellington for three seasons from 2011, and now joins us here in NSW as a Swift!
WHAT WAS YOUR CROSSROAD?
I’ve had many crossroads choosing between the two sports. The choice I had to make to move away from home when I was 16, and balancing this with my study through school and university was possibly the biggest crossroad.
WHY DID YOU LEAVE NETBALL TO MOVE TO THE AIS FOR VOLLEYBALL?
I was offered a contract at the AIS the year before, but because I was 15 I wasn’t ready to move away from home as I was still training with the Melbourne Kestrels at the time. A year later I realized the Australian Women’s Volleyball Team was attempting to qualify for the 2004 Athens Olympics, which was the dangling carrot that helped me decide to pursue my Volleyball career. My parents helped me a lot by allowing me to make my own decisions.
WHY THE RETURN TO NETBALL?
After not qualifying for the 2004 Olympics, we knew the Women’s AIS program was being cut the following year. As I was coming into my final year at school, I put my study first and decided to move back to Bendigo in 2004 to complete Year 12. Not long after I returned I heard from Jane Searle, the Melbourne Kestrel’s Head Coach asking me to join them once again. I took her up on it.
WAS IT HARD TO GIVE UP VOLLEYBALL?
It was because I still loved it. In saying that I still represented Victoria in National Championships until 21/U and would often get myself in trouble with either sport as I would have to miss a State Netball or State Volleyball training session to make the other. At this stage I wasn’t willing to give up either sport as I loved both of them!
YOU HAVE SO MUCH EXPERIENCE IN MAKING CHALLENGING DECISIONS. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR SOMEONE IN A SIMILAR POSITION? Talk to as many people as you can in similar circumstances or situations to get as much information as possible on your decision. It helps to gain knowledge on the decision and it gives you a view from different perspectives. If you flip a coin, you will also know in your gut whether you want it to land on heads or tails. It’s because the decision gets taken out of your hands that deep down you know what you want to do. Write down the positives and negatives about that situation. Remember that it doesn’t have to be a big list, but if it’s important to you, then it’s worth more in the decision-making process. What you value is going to guide you. It doesn’t get any easier, but having a process makes it achievable.
A young Caitlin Thwaites representing the AIS in Volleyball
14
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
Love netball? Love Netball Nation. As part of our commitment to supporting netball from the grassroots to the elite ANZ Championship, we have launched Netball Nation.
Now we want you to enjoy the benefits – grants to support clubs, Netball Nation carnivals with the country’s best players and coaches, and a National Netball Day to celebrate all things about the sport. Join the action now.
Find out more on NetballNation.com or follow us on:
Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522. ANZ’s colour blue is a trademark of ANZ. 2/14
16243
gala dinner nsw swifts
Join the NSW Swifts for a night of glitz and glamour at the 2014 Gala Dinner to be held at an historical and picturesque Darling Harbour venue.
Australian National Maritime Museum
2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour on Wednesday 26 June at 6:30pm Price: $140 per person or $1300 for a table of 10 2014 NSW Swifts Members receive a 10% discount on tickets. Tickets must be purchased by 5pm Wednesday 11 June.
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
To join the NSW Swifts and friend at the 2014 Gala Dinner contact Sarah Sugar to purchase tickets on 02 9951 5000 or email ssugar@netballnsw.com
INSIDER
15
A trip down memory lane with…
SUE KENNY OAM Sue Kenny OAM is the latest former NSW player to be put in the spotlight in Swifts Insider! Inducted into the Netball NSW Hall of Fame in 2004, Sue was a seasoned leader who remains the most capped NSW Captain in history.
1. How did you get started in netball?
Sue was a member of the NSW team from 1985-1996 and was Captain for seven of those years, covering a period during which the NSW team won the National Championships for eight years in succession.
2. Which player did you most admire and why?
She also captained the Sydney Sandpipers in the former national league, Sydney Pulsars and Sydney Electricity in the Mobil League (prior national league) as well as being Vice Captain of the Australian team from 1989-1994. Sue represented the green and gold from 1986-1994 and was a part of the World Champion team that stole victory from the Silver Ferns by one goal in Sydney in 1991.
I started playing at school with my friends. My mum has always been involved in netball so I guess I was always around the courts and then got involved in the club. It was when I went to the Hordern Pavillion to watch Australia play. Annie Sargeant was playing, and I can’t remember who was playing with Annie, maybe Sue Hawkins, but that was when I got interested in the Goal Attack position. And Debbie Waters (nee Bentley), back in that time we played home and away for State League and she was someone I admired and I ended up playing with her for Randwick. That was when I really started to look at taking netball to that next level and they’re the ones I looked up to.
3. What do you remember of your National League debut?
I think before Sydney Pulsar I made my national league debut when I was at the Australian Institute of Sport. [What I remember] was just stepping up to that next level of competition, that was when I was about 18 or 19.
4. What was the highlight of your netball career?
Playing for Australia and playing to the best of your abilities. And of course I can’t go past Sydney where we won [the World Championship] in 1991.
5. What is one thing you miss about netball and one thing you don’t?
You miss seeing the girls, your teammates every night. There isn’t anything I don’t miss too much; I guess you could say the training but I didn’t really mind that!
from the NSW Swifts The NSW Swifts would like to thank the ongoing support of our family of Partners, in particularly those who have provided some amazing prizes on offer to the Fans:
• • •
2014 Partners Challenge • The Sydney Boulevard Hotel – Overnight Accommodation Package in a Deluxe Harbour View Room with full buffet breakfast for two worth $300 • Taronga Zoo Family Passes (4 tickets) thanks to NSW Swifts’ Principal Partner QBE worth $120
2014 RED ZONE Members Draw • The Edge in Hair $100 voucher in-salon • Winston Hills Mall – $50 shopping voucher • Imagination Graphics – $200 voucher for Graphic Design or Printing • Cartridge World – Printer & Voucher worth $150 • NSW Swifts Pack
16
INSIDER
SKINS – $150 online voucher Coast2Coast – $150 merchandise voucher The Athlete’s Foot – $150 in-store voucher
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
Pipper taking part in the Half Time Partner Challenge during Round 9
Gretel Tippett A SEASON OF LEARNING BOTH ON AND OFF COURT A blonde haired sweetheart residing in Bondi with her superstar brother, living the dream by getting paid to play the sport she loves at an elite level. Fans would be forgiven for assuming this is the life Gretel Tippett leads, however the goal shooter is quick to comment she’s “just a normal 20-year-old”. In her first year playing in the ANZ Championship for the NSW Swifts, Gretel has shown glimpses of her potential in three appearances so far for the Club. The 192cm shooter has had the netball world excited after converting from basketball two years ago, but the down-to-earth Gold Coast native isn’t getting too far ahead of herself. “The ANZ Championship is extremely tough. I’ve said it before but full credit to the girls who play because they make it look so easy, when really it’s not,” Gretel said. “I didn’t really have any expectations coming into the competition – I really just wanted to take it as it comes – but I’m really enjoying the challenge, and just trying to take everything in. “It’s been a big eye opener and made me hungry to keep working on my skills so I can mix it with some of the best.” And with that means training – lots of training – with the team completing eight to nine
sessions, plus travelling and coming up against the best netballing talent in the world week in, week out. So the question must be asked; with so much netball in her life, how does Gretel remain “normal”? Well apparently the answer is quite simple; surround yourself with good people and find other hobbies and interests. One of Gretel’s interests may actually turn into a career for the youngster, who is currently studying a Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics with Griffith University. Having moved to Sydney last year to join the Swifts, Gretel switched to remote learning for her third year. “It was while I was at the AIS [Australian Institute of Sport] with basketball that I first learnt about the importance of nutrition and diet to an athlete. I found it really interesting – the different components and compositions that you could put into your body to help with recovery,” Gretel said. “My brother Kurt and I live together and he’s also really passionate about eating organically, so it’s quite fun going food shopping. As athletes we have a responsibility to train hard and prepare our bodies to be ready for competition, and that includes the fuel we put into it.
Now that she is getting towards the “business end” of her degree, Gretel says she will start putting her theoretical learnings into practice by completing the work experience component of her coursework. Gretel will look at shadowing the Sydney Swans Dietician Lorraine Cullen once a week to learn from Lorraine and help expand her own knowledge. “I’m really excited about the prospect of work experience and putting the stuff I’ve been learning into practice. I also talk a lot with the Swifts’ Dietician Samantha Rand as well, who helps me – it’s great to have these resources at hand,” Gretel admits. But there’s still plenty of netball to be played before Gretel can think about her Graduation ceremony. With the Swifts looking to contest the Finals Series for the first time since 2011 as well as joining her Australian 21/U teammates in September, Gretel admits she is excited about the next few months. “To play in a Grand Final in your first season would be an amazing feeling, let alone to win the Trophy,” Gretel said. “I love the Swifts and my teammates, so it would be a dream come true to be able to win the ANZ Championship together after all the hard work and determination we have put into this season; I’m really excited.” Victoria Bain
“My degree has really opened my eyes to the things I can be doing to ensure I’m in peak condition – but it applies to everyone and everyday life.”
Netball NSW/Michael Costa
Sydney Swan Kurt Tippett with his baby sister and NSW Swift Shooter Gretel Tippett at Bondi Beach
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
INSIDER
17
SWIFT Following the success of Swift in the Kitchen last season, Swifts Insider is continuing this fan favourite feature in season 2014. Your NSW Swifts’ will share with you one of their favourite recipes so you can try it at home. From sweet to savoury, there is bound to be something yummy to tempt everyone’s tastebuds this year. Bon Appetite!
Maddie’s Potato Winter Warmer SERVES: 2-3
PREP: 20mins
COOKING TIME: 25mins
Ingredients • 3 rashers of bacon • 750 grams of potatoes, peeled • 2 shallots, sliced thinly • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped • 1/4 teaspoon salt • Pinch of black pepper Dressing • 1/3 cup of melted butter • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard • 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar Method 1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees 2. Trim rind from bacon and grill or pan fry until crisp. Allow bacon to cool then chop it into small pieces.
created by Maddie Hay
TOTAL TIME: 45mins
3. Cut potatoes into large cubes and boil until just tender. Drain and cool. 4. Make the dressing by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl or jug. Keep warm until required. 5. Place potatoes in an ovenproof dish with 3/4 of the cooked bacon bits, shallots, parsley, salt and black pepper. 6. Pour over the dressing and toss gently. 7. Sprinkle with remaining bacon bits and place in oven for approximately 10 mins or until warmed through. Serve hot. In the photo I have doubled the recipe as to serve my whole family!
2015 NSW SWIFTS
MEMBERSHIPS Register your interest 2014 has been another record-breaking season for the NSW Swifts and we are delighted by the level of the support we continue to receive. Join us next season as a 2015 Member and don’t miss a minute of the action! 2015 RED ZONE Membership packages will be announced during the off-season, but register your interest today to be one of the first to receive information. Register Your Interest today at
nswswifts.com.au Alternatively, contact the NSW Swifts Membership Team during business hours on 02 9951 5000.
18
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
BLOCKBUSTER
FUN AND GAMES We hope you enjoyed the many activities taking place in the Allphones Arena main foyer ahead of today’s game. The NSW Swifts would like to thank a number of our wonderful Partners, Suppliers and Netball family and friends for helping to make this array of entertainment and activities possible. • •
To our Principal Partner QBE for their NSW Swifts Photo Booth. Diamond Girl, one of Sporty’s besties, for coming along.
• • • • • • •
Sydney Swans friend and mascot Cyggy Swan for the laughs and pics! Telstra and the Telstra Netboys. The team from Netball World Cup 2015 for their sneak peek into next year’s event in Sydney! The Edge in Hair team for making the Swifts Styling Station amazing! ANZ for their Mobile Instagram photos and sponsoring our NetSetGO Activity Centre. Coast2Coast Sports, our merchandise partner for all the cool merchandise. Imagination Graphics with their wedding stationary display.
• • • • •
The Bosco Bear Chocolate Wheel. To our Swifts Face Painting Team and their great designs. The Swifts Crew at the tattoo station and Kids Zone! Nova Casanovas for the great tunes, fun games and giveaways. To the team at Allphones Arena for their support and assistance.
And finally to the fans for coming early and enjoying the activities ahead of today’s BLOCKBUSTER.
2014 NSW SWIFTS PARTNERS PRINCIPAL SPONSOR
Principal Partner ASSOCIATE SPONSORS
Premier Partners
Major Partners
Australia
New Zealand
Team Partners
SUPPORT SPONSORS & SUPPLIERS
Australia
New Zealand
TELEVISION
New Zealand
Australia
RADIO
NEW MEDIA
Australia
New Zealand
New Zealand
Proud Partner
Official Charity Partner
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au
Merchandising Partner
INSIDER
19
NETBALL WORLD CUP 2015 FAN PACKAGES On sale from Monday 26th May, 2014
It’s time to start planning for
August 2015!
o ot Ph e cr
di t: Da vid
Ca llow
/ Ne tball Australia
Don’t miss this once-in-a-generation opportunity to see the world’s best go head-to-head, right here in Sydney. Fan packages are exclusively available through the Official Travel Agents of NWC2015:
nwc2015.com.au • 7-16 August 2015 20
INSIDER
VOL 7 ISSUE 6 | visit nswswifts.com.au