2013
NETBALL YOUR FREE GUIDE TO THE 2013 ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP
ANZ is awarding $100,000 in grants To apply visit anzCOURTSIDE.co.nz
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Contents
MANAGING Editor Oliver Lee
EDITORIAL Robert Tighe Peter White Tania Dalton
Photography Michael Bradley
Design/Layout hurley new zealand limited
PrintER Webstar, Masterton
Publisher
Pulse’s wing defence joline henry.
mystics kayla cullen defends against the magic’s julianna naoupu
ANZ Championship Preview................................................ 4 ANZ Fan Club................................................................................. 6 Kia Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic..................................... 9 LG Mystics.................................................................................... 10 EasiYo Tactix............................................................................... 13 Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel.................................. 14 ANZ Championship 2013 Draw.................................... 16
WBOP Magic’s Casey Kopua in full flight
Haier Central Pulse................................................................ Adelaide Thunderbirds........................................................ Melbourne Vixens................................................................... NSW Swifts.................................................................................. Queensland Firebirds........................................................... West Coast Fever....................................................................
18 21 22 25 26 28
COPYRIGHT Reproduction in whole or part by any means is prohibited. DISCLAIMER The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.
Box 331-667, Takapuna, Auckland 0740, New Zealand T: +64-9-486 6966 E: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz W: www.oliverlee.co.nz
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM LOCATIONS AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA
TOUGH FIGHT FOR THE TITLE The ANZ Championship has always been difficult to predict but the 2013 campaign looks to be the closest yet. by tania dalton. Well it is hard to believe the sixth year of the ANZ Championship is upon us. While the rest of us have been enjoying a primo summer – certainly the best we have had for a long time – players and coaches have been preparing themselves to become legitimate title contenders for 2013. History shows just how hard it is to take this competition out and even harder to win back to back titles – not one team has managed it yet! Looking at the sides, defending champions WAIKATO/BOP MAGIC certainly look hot favourites with their big four of Casey Kopua (nee Williams), Laura Langman, Irene Van Dyk and Leana De Bruin all returning. Australian import Khao Watts is back, as is Elias Shadrock, who was one of the most improved players in the competition last year. I guess the only question mark over the line up this season is the GA position. With Juliana Naoupu moving to the Tactix, the big question is whether Ellen Halpenny has got what it takes to slot in to this talented line up. We will soon find out. Last year’s finalists the MELBOURNE VIXENS are strong contenders with experienced players Maddy Browne, Bianca Chatfield and English import Geva Mentor remaining. The real buzz will be around the return of 35-year-old, 118 test legend Sharelle McMahon, who is back after the birth of her first child. We all know this has been done before by a number of top players – Donna Wilkins and Jodi Brown to name a couple – and they came back just as good, if not in better form. The dark horse of the competition this year could be the mighty CENTRAL PULSE. Recruiting Donna Wilkins and former Silver Fern Liana Leota has to be a major boost to their ever improving side. With Katrina Grant, Te Heinga Selby Rickett, Joline Henry and Camilla Lees back for more, and Robyn Broughton in her second year coaching, this certainly looks like a team to push for a semi-finals spot. But semi-finalists for the last two years, the NORTHERN MYSTICS, certainly look a wee bit depleted. Losing legend Temepara Bailey (nee George), Anna Harrison through pregnancy, and Charlotte Kight due to injury, will surely give caretaker coach Ruth Aitken a huge chal-
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 4
Magic captain Laura Langman looks to lead her team to back-to-back titles
lenge. Certainly Australian import Julie Corletto is massive for the franchise and a player to watch with interest. The TACTIX and SOUTHERN STEEL could have tough seasons ahead. Tactix have recruited two top English players in Jo Harten and Jade Clarke, to join Anna Thompson and Julianna Naoupu, so they may surprise us. Jodi Brown returns for the Southern Steel along with former Silver Fern Wendy Frew, who is back from the birth of her first child. Probably the biggest asset in this side is 198cm Jamaican shooter Jhaniele Fowler. How hard will it be for the Jamaican to adapt to the New Zealand lifestyle could be a huge factor in how well she does but she is a player who could provide a few headaches for defenders. Across the Tasman, the ADELAIDE THUNDERBIRDS always seem to have good depth throughout the court, with Carla Borrego in the forward line, Sharni Layton, Rebecca Bulley and Renae Hallinan in the back line, and Australian captain Natalie Von Bertouch running the midcourt. This team certainly looks classy and under the guidance of Jane Woodlands Thompson can never be underestimated. QUEENSLAND FIREBIRDS had a disappointing season last year but should not be forgotten.
Jamaican star shooter Romelda Aiken remains and Australian internationals Laura Geitz, Natalie Medhurst and Chelsea Pitman give great depth to this side. Back in 2011 they went through undefeated so without doubt they will want to get that winning culture back. The NSW SWIFTS finished fifth last year. They had some outstanding performances but some upset losses cost them a play-offs spot. Mo’onia Gerrard, Kimberlee Green, Susan Pratley and English import Sonia McKloma are all fierce competitors who will be demanding more from their side this season. The WEST COAST FEVER were the underperformers last year, coached by former Australian boss Norma Plummer and with legendary shooter Cath Cox playing alongside Caitlin Bassett. The Fever will be hungry to make amends for last season and get points on the ladder early in the season. Overall the talk around town about the championship is heating up and teams have been squaring off in plenty of pre-season matches. The 2013 ANZ Championship commences on the 24th March for the first time at Nelson’s Trafalgar Square Stadium, and the clash between the MAGIC and TACTIX should be a beauty. Bring on the season!
MORE SUPPORT AT ALL LEVELS VISIT ANZCOURTSIDE.CO.NZ The ANZ Championship kicks off on 24 March with the best teams in New Zealand and Australia going head to head for the title. Now in its sixth year, the ANZ Championship has gone from strength to strength – and so has ANZ’s support. This year, we’re supporting netball players and fans all over New Zealand to get more involved – and get more from the game they love. ANZ Grant Scheme We’re right behind the game – and we’re right behind the people who make netball what it is. That’s why we’re awarding a total of $100,000 in grants to help schools, clubs, teams and fans with whatever they need to get more from the game this season. Whether you need help with purchasing new uniforms, new hoops and nets or even help getting to a tournament – whatever it is simply apply at anzcourtside.co.nz and let us know what you need the grant for and why. Then, get your friends and family to vote in support of your application – the more votes you get, the more chance your application has of succeeding. CALLING ALL FUTURE CAPTAINS Today’s junior netballers are tomorrow’s ANZ Championship stars – and ANZ is delighted to be offering a once in a lifetime opportunity for ANZ customers’ children. Children aged between 8 -15 years are eligible for the ANZ Future Captains promotion and if they’re successful, they’ll get to fly
anzcourtside.co.nz ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 6
the flag for an ANZ Championship team on centre court, meet the team captains, receive a double pass to the game and $50 into a nominated bank account. To nominate a child visit anzcourtside.co.nz KEEPING YOU UP WITH THE ACTION Our website anzcourtside.co.nz is the place to stay up to date as the ANZ Championship unfolds. Play our virtual tipping game – pick the winning team and margin and test your skills against other keen netball fans. There is news about ANZ’s netball roadshow heading around the country from April, get the latest ANZ Championship reviews with quality sports commentary from leading netball writer Michael Burgess. Plus, answer our weekly quiz and you could win double passes to an ANZ Championship game in your region. MATCH DAY EXPERIENCE The ANZ crew will be at every match, giving away free ANZ thundersticks and exclusive merchandise – so keep an eye out for them. We’ll also have an interactive ANZ photo booth for a bit of fun before the game, plus we’ll have tablets available where you can apply for an ANZ grant. We’re truly delivering more support to all levels of netball this year, so go online to see how you can get more out of the game you love – anzcourtside.co.nz To apply for each ANZ promotion or competition and for full terms and conditions and eligibility criteria visit anzcourtside.co.nz
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MAGIC
One is never enough. Based in the Waikato we are proud to be the official associate sponsor and official snack supplier to the Kia Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic as they look for back to back championships. www.motherearth.co.nz
Magic hoping to go back-to-back After their thrilling win last year, the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Magic look well equipped to become the first side to defend their title
IRENE VAN DYK AND leana de bruin
HOME AND AWAY: Last season the Kia Magic lost their opening four games before going on a 13-game winning streak that culminated in that epic Grand Final win over the Vixens. Their last three games this season sees them play the Northern Mystics (twice) and the Melbourne Vixens, the teams they beat in last year’s Preliminary and Grand Final respectively. “We’ll need to manage the early part of the season so the players aren’t fatigued by the end of it,” says Magic coach Noeline Taurua. “They are three juicy games and it will be a great lead in to the playoffs, provided we’re there of course.” Sideline View: Noeline Taurua thought long and hard about her future with the Magic after finally winning the ANZ Championship last year. “I’ve been with the Magic for 11 years so I thought seriously about whether I could take the team forward and whether I still had the fire in my belly,” she says. “I worked through those things and I’m really excited about the new season.” She also told her star players it might be time to move on but she’s relieved none of them took her advice. “I told the players, ‘if you want to go, now’s the time to do it because we’ve nothing else to prove.’ I’m rapt they all came back. It helps so much to have a solid foundation of players you can build with every year.” The big four of Laura Langman, Casey Kopua (nee Williams), Leana de Bruin and Irene van Dyk are back to try and do what no other team in the competition has done before, win back-to-back titles.
laura langman
irene van dyk AND CASEY KOPUA
“Last year has us given a better understanding of the recipe for success and what you need to do to win this competition but we need to keep challenging ourselves,” says Taurua.
TEAM
WHO’S HOT: The signing of Jamie-Lee Price, the 17-year-old daughter of Warriors and Australian rugby league legend, Steve Price made the headlines in the off-season. She’s set to become the youngest player in ANZ Championship history and her coach is really excited about her potential in the wing defence position.
KIA Waikato/ Bay of Plenty Magic
“She’s exuberant and tenacious and the great thing about her is she almost always comes up with ball in hand,” says Taurua. “I don’t know how she does it sometimes.”
Leana de Bruin Kendra Falefitu Ellen Halpenny Casey Kopua Laura Langman Nadia Loveday Erena Mikaere Jamie-Lee Price Elias Shadrock Jodi Tod Elliott Jess Tuki Irene Van Dyk Jess Waitapu Khao Watts
Ellen Halpenny is another key signing from the Tactix and Taurua is looking forward to her combination in attack with Irene van Dyk. TIP FOR THE TOP: Taurua is impressed with what Robyn Broughton has done with the Pulse. The Magic beat them 78-71 in a pre-season game at the end of February but the Pulse were without two of their star players, Liana Leota and Donna Wilkins. “They’ve got quite a formidable side now,” says Taurua. “I think they’ll be there at the end of the season along with the Vixens and the Thunderbirds.”
Netball Zone: Netball Waikato Bay of Plenty
Squad:
Coach: Noeline Taurua
Website: netballmagic.co.nz
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: 84A First Avenue, Tauranga
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 9
Missing Mystics cause for concern It’s been a tough pre-season for the Mystics but with former Silver Ferns coach Ruth Aitken in charge the Auckland side will be targeting the playoffs again
KAYLA CULLEN
TEAM LG Mystics Netball Zone: Northern Zone
Squad: Jess Bourke Julie Corletto Kayla Cullen Cathrine Latu Bailey Mes Jess Moulds Malia Paseka Erikana Pedersen Grace Rasmussen Elisapeta Toeava Maria Tutaia Lavinia Vaitohi
Coach: Ruth Aitken
Website: northernmystics.co.nz
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: The Trusts Arena, 65-67 Central Park Dr, Henderson, Auckland 0610
MARIA TUTAIA
CATHRINE LATU
Home and Away: The LG Mystics face last year’s beaten finalists the Vixens in their opening game of the season and finish with a trip to play their great rivals, the Magic but new coach Ruth Aitken isn’t too worried about the draw.
“I’m particularly proud of the progress some of our wider squad members have made, but we will be relying on our more experienced talent, like Tutaia, to help our new recruits take it to the next level,’ said Aitken.
“It’s just very exciting for me to be part of this great competition and we can’t wait to get started,” says Aitken.
One plus for the Mystics is the signing of Australian Diamond defender, Julie Corletto.
SIDELINE VIEW: Aitken hasn’t had the easiest of starts to her first stint in charge of an ANZ Championship team with inspirational captain Temepara Bailey (nee George) retiring, defender Charlotte Kight out with an Achilles injury and the withdrawal of co-captain Anna Harrison due to pregnancy.
“Julie has been great and has settled in well to both the Mystics and life in Auckland,” says Aitken. “Of course we’re all now even closer friends with the Breakers team with Julie’s husband, Darryl, playing for the basketball franchise.”
“There are some significant differences and similarities between the ANZ Championship and the international stage,” says Aitken, “but both have elite athletes giving 100 per cent and performing to the best of their ability to win every game.” Winning is part of Aitken’s DNA. “My goal is always to win and beyond that for the Mystics to play a highly skilled, fiercely competitive game, and to be a team that Auckland can be proud of.” WHO’S HOT: The Mystics have two hot properties down either end of the court in 2013, co-captain and long range super-shooter Maria Tutaia heading up the attacking end and dogged Australian defender Julie Corletto looking to make her mark in a New Zealand based team for the first time. Tutaia will be looking to cement and develop her combination with the strong and fleet-footed Goal Shoot Catherine Latu as well as guide some of the inexperienced young players into the new dynamics of professional netball.
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 10
TIP FOR THE TOP: Aitken gives nothing away when asked what teams she expects to be in contention come the end of the season. “It might be a cliché but what I have learned from studying this competition for the last six years is that there are no easy beats,” says Aitken. “Any team has the ability to win on any given day; you only have to look at the stats. A different franchise has won the competition every year since the inception of the ANZ Championship.” And Aitken is hoping it’s the Mystics turn this year.
Only way is up for the Tactix The Canterbury Tactix have finished bottom of the table for the last three seasons; this year they’ve set their sights higher
JO HARTEN
HOME & AWAY: EasiYo Tactix coach Leigh Gibbs has landed a fixture list that sees her side face the Magic (twice), the Vixens and the Mystics in a devilishly challenging start to the season. “Every game is tough for different reasons and you’ve got to face every side at some stage,” says Gibbs. “At least this year we’ve only got two games in Australia.” Sideline View: When you’re in the building phase, Tactix Coach Leigh Gibbs believes that Goal Setting needs to be the main focus. “We certainly want to get off the bottom of the ladder,” says Gibbs. “We’ve got a lot of younger players, for many of them it’s their first year in the competition. I wouldn’t discount us making the playoffs but more importantly I want us to be a team that doesn’t give up and that fights to the end.” The Tactix have worked hard in the pre-season on their conditioning and Gibbs hopes that will prevent some of the last quarter blowouts that really hurt her side last year. “The players are looking stronger than last year and that’s important because this is a tough competition,” says Gibbs. “We made mistakes at crucial times last year and in a competition like this you don’t get away with too many mistakes. We got enough possession, it’s making sure we treasure that possession and make the most of it.” who’s hot: The Tactix had eight new players last season, this year they have seven. That doesn’t make it easy on a coach looking to build combinations.
KESHIA GRANT
“Look at the teams at the top end of the ladder, like the Magic,” says Gibbs. “They’ve had a settled lineup for almost the last five years. Any players they bring in are usually experienced players and that gives a team a big advantage.” In saying that, Gibbs is excited about the talent she’s been able to attract this year, with Magic shooter Julianna Naoupu a key signing. English international midcourter Jade Clarke is another useful addition to the Tactix squad and she’ll team up with fellow Brit, Jo Harten. “Jade is a leader on court and she’s got great speed and a high workrate,” says Gibbs. “This is Jo’s second season with us and in the space of a year she’s really grown and is a much more confident player now.” TIP FOR THE TOP: Gibbs lists the usual suspects when asked who she thinks will be fighting it out for the playoff spots come the end of the season. “I think the Vixens look very tough, I know the Magic will be on track and the Pulse, given the lineup they’ve got, they could be one to make the finals this year. It’s a team with a lot of experience and Silver Ferns, past and present.”
ANNA THOMPSON
TEAM EasiYo Tactix Netball Zone: Netball Mainland
Squad: Jade Clarke Sophia Fenwick Keshia Grant Jo Harten Elizabeth Hayman Kirsten Hurley Bessie Manu Julianna Naoupu Louise Thayer Anna Thompson Joanna Trip Zoe Walker Jane Watson
Coach: Leigh Gibbs
Website: tactix.org.nz
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: Level 2 455 Hagley Avenue Christchurch
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 13
Steel have work to do After a disappointing season last year, the Steel will be hoping to bounce back in 2013
SHANNON FRANCOIS
TEAM Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel Netball Zone: Netball South
Squad: Jodi Brown Gina Crampton Phillipa Finch Jhaniele Fowler Shannon Francois Wendy Frew Phoenix Karaka Stacey Peeters Storm Purvis Te Paea Selby-Rickit Kate Shearer Courtney Tairi Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick Rachel Rasmussen
Coaches: Janine Southby
Website: southernsteel.co.nz
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: Box 6034, Invercargill North, Invercargill 9841 Telephone: 03 217 1303
PHILLIPA FINCH
Home and Away: The Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel make the long trip to Brisbane to face the Queensland Firebirds in their opening game of the season. But Steel coach Janine Southby isn’t complaining. “I guess I’m a realist in that you get what you’re given,” says Southby. “Last year we won two of our three opening games, then lost a few close ones and after that things went a bit pear shaped for us. We need to step it up a notch at the start of this season.” SIDELINE VIEW: Janine Southby shared the coaching responsibilities with Natalie Avellino last year but this year the Steel have reverted to a more traditional coaching structure with Southby in charge and Avellino in the role of assistant coach. Another change from last year is the amount of work the Steel have done in the pre-season. “I don’t think we had enough time together training as a team last year,” admits Southby. “We’ve really upped it this season. We weren’t fit enough last year, we weren’t tough enough mentally and early in the season there were some games we lost by a couple of goals which I think defined our season for us.” The extra training paid off at the pre-season tournament in Melbourne in February when the Steel beat the Swifts to record their first ever win on Australian soil. “It was only a pre-season game so you can’t read too much into it but I guess it’s good to know we can do it and it’s not an unachievable goal,” says Southby. WHO’S HOT: All eyes will be on Jamaican import Jhaniele Fowler to see how she adapts to trans-Tasman netball.
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 14
Jodi Brown
At a towering 1.98m, the 23-year-old is the tallest player in the competition and her combination with Steel captain Jodi Brown will be crucial to the Steel’s chances. Southby has also brought in a couple of players she’s worked with in her role as New Zealand Under-21 coach to add some depth to the Steel’s defensive stocks. Sulu ToneFitzpatrick spent the last two years at the Magic where she struggled to get court time while 19-year-old Phoenix Karaka has impressed in pre-season. Rachel Rasmussen is another key signing from the Mystics. “I hadn’t worked with Rachel before but she has slotted in really well,” says Southby. “She’s got great experience and she’s leading the defensive end really well.” TIP FOR THE TOP: Southby admits that making the playoffs will be a big ask for this young Steel side and she says she’d be happy to finish in the top half of the table. As for who’ll be battling it out for the title, Southby likes the look of three teams in particular. “The Magic with all their experience will be at the top end of the table and the Vixens will be up there too I think,” says Southby. “The Pulse have brought in some experienced players and if they get things right they’ll be tough to beat as well. As for the rest, I think any of the other teams on their day can beat anyone else.”
ANZ Championship 2013 Draw ROUND DAY
DATE
LOCAL TIME HOME TEAM
1
Sunday
24 March
11.10am
Sunday
24 March
1.50pm
AWAY TEAM
VENUE
LOCATION
Firebirds
Steel
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Brisbane
Thunderbirds
Pulse
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
Sunday
24 March
7.20pm
Tactix
WBOP Magic
Trafalgar Centre
Nelson
Monday
25 March
7.40pm
Mystics
Vixens
The Trusts Arena
Auckland
Monday
25 March
7.40pm
Swifts
Fever
Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Sydney
4.20pm
2
Saturday
30 March
Sunday
31 March 12.10pm
Tactix
Steel
CBS Canterbury Arena
Christchurch
Vixens
Thunderbirds
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
EASTER WEEKEND
Sunday
31 March 11.20am
Fever
Mystics
Challenge Stadium
Perth
Sunday
31 March
7.20pm
WBOP Magic
Swifts
ASB Baypark Arena
Tauranga
Monday
1 April
7.40pm
Pulse
Firebirds
Te Rauparaha Arena
Porirua
3
Saturday
6 April
4.20pm
Steel
Thunderbirds
Lion Foundation Arena
Dunedin
Sunday
7 April
10.10am
Fever
WBOP Magic
Challenge Stadium
Perth
Sunday
7 April
7.20pm
Mystics
Firebirds
The Trusts Arena
Auckland
Monday
8 April
7.40pm
Pulse
Swifts
TSB Arena
Wellington
Monday
8 April
7.40pm
Vixens
Tactix
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
4
Sunday
14 April
11.40am
Sunday
14 April
7.20pm
Thunderbirds
Fever
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
Pulse
Steel
Arena Manawatu
Palmerston North
Monday
15 April
7.40pm
Tactix
Mystics
CBS Canterbury Arena
Christchurch
Monday
15 April
7.40pm
Swifts
Firebirds
Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Sydney
Byes: Vixens/WBOP Magic
5
Sunday
21 April
11.40am
Thunderbirds
Vixens
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
Sunday
21 April
12.20pm
Fever
Swifts
Challenge Stadium
Perth
Sunday
21 April
7.20pm
Mystics
Pulse
The Trusts Arena
Auckland
Monday
22 April
7.40pm
WBOP Magic
Tactix
ASB Baypark Arena
Tauranga
Byes: Firebirds/Steel
6
Saturday
27 April
12.20pm
Fever
Vixens
Perth Arena
Perth
Sunday
28 April
12.10pm
Firebirds
Thunderbirds
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Brisbane
Sunday
28 April
7.20pm
Pulse
WBOP Magic
TSB Arena
Wellington
Monday
29 April
7.40pm
Steel
Mystics
Stadium Southland Velodrome
Invercargill
7
Sunday
5 May
12.10pm
Sunday
5 May
2.20pm
Byes: Swifts/Tactix
Firebirds
Fever
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Brisbane
Vixens
Pulse
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
Sunday
5 May
7.20pm
Mystics
Tactix
The Trusts Arena
Auckland
Monday
6 May
7.40pm
Steel
Swifts
Stadium Southland Velodrome
Invercargill
Monday
6 May
7.10pm
Thunderbirds
WBOP Magic
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
8
Saturday
11 May
4.20pm
Tactix
Firebirds
CBS Canterbury Arena
Christchurch
Sunday
12 May
12.10pm
Swifts
Vixens
Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Sydney
Sunday
12 May
12.20pm
Fever
Thunderbirds
Challenge Stadium
Perth
Sunday
12 May
7.20pm
Mystics
Steel
The Trusts Arena
Auckland
Monday
13 May
7.40pm
WBOP Magic
Pulse
Claudelands Arena
Hamilton
Catch all the action of the ANZ Championship live on Spot Colour Version
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ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013  16
C/M/Y/K 0/83/17/0 0/59/5/0 0/28/2/0
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ROUND DAY
DATE
LOCAL TIME HOME TEAM
AWAY TEAM
VENUE
LOCATION
9
Saturday
18 May
4.20pm
Steel
WBOP Magic
Stadium Southland Velodrome
Invercargill
Sunday
19 May
12.10pm
Vixens
Firebirds
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
Sunday
19 May
1.50pm
Thunderbirds
Swifts
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
Sunday
19 May
7.20pm
Tactix
Fever
Trafalgar Centre
Nelson
Monday
20 May
7.40pm
Pulse
Mystics
Te Rauparaha Arena
Porirua
10
Sunday
26 May
12.10pm
Sunday
26 May
2.20pm
Swifts
Mystics
Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Sydney
Firebirds
WBOP Magic
Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre
Gold Coast
Sunday
26 May
7.20pm
Pulse
Fever
TSB Arena
Wellington
Monday
27 May
7.40pm
Tactix
Thunderbirds
Lion Foundation Arena
Dunedin
Monday
27 May
7.40pm
Vixens
Steel
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
11
Sunday
2 June
12.10pm
Sunday
2 June
2.20pm
Queen’s BIRTHDAY WEEKEND NZ
Swifts
Thunderbirds
Allphones Arena
Sydney
Firebirds
Vixens
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Brisbane
Sunday
2 June
7.20pm
WBOP Magic
Steel
Energy Events Centre
Rotorua
Monday
3 June
7.40pm
Tactix
Pulse
CBS Canterbury Arena
Christchurch
Bye: Fever / Mystics
12
Saturday
8 June
2.20pm
Vixens
Swifts
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
Sunday
9 June
10.10am
Fever
Firebirds
Challenge Stadium
Perth
Queen’s BIRTHDAY WEEKEND AUSTRALIA
Sunday
9 June
7.20pm
Steel
Tactix
Lion Foundation Arena
Dunedin
Monday
10 June
7.40pm
Mystics
WBOP Magic
The Trusts Arena
Auckland
13
Sunday
16 June
12.10pm
Sunday
16 June
1.50pm
Bye: Thunderbirds / Pulse
Firebirds
Swifts
Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Brisbane
Thunderbirds
Mystics
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
Sunday
16 June
7.20pm
WBOP Magic
Vixens
Claudelands Arena
Hamilton
Monday
17 June
7.40pm
Pulse
Tactix
Te Rauparaha Arena
Porirua
Monday
17 June
5.40pm
Fever
Steel
Challenge Stadium
Perth
14
Sunday
23 June
12.10pm
Sunday
23 June
1.50pm
Vixens
Fever
Hisense Arena
Melbourne
Thunderbirds
Firebirds
Netball SA Stadium
Adelaide
Sunday
23 June
7.20pm
Steel
Pulse
Stadium Southland Velodrome
Invercargill
Monday
24 June
7.40pm
WBOP Magic
Mystics
ASB Baypark Arena
Tauranga
Monday
24 June
7.40pm
Swifts
Tactix
Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre
Sydney
FinalS Series: Semi-Finals: Sunday 30 June and Monday 1 July Preliminary Final: Sunday 7 July or Monday 8 July (date to be confirmed) Grand Final: Sunday 14 July or Monday 15 July (date to be confirmed)
FOrMAT Semi-finals: ● 1 v 2 – team finishing first host major semi-final (subject to venue availability) ● 3 v 4 – team finishing third host minor semi-final (subject to venue availability)
● Winner 1 v 2 directly into Grand Final. Loser hosts preliminary final (subject to venue availability) ● Winner 3 v 4 contests preliminary final against loser of major semi-final (subject to venue availability)
Preliminary final: ● Loser of major semi-final hosts preliminary final against winner of minor semi-final
Grand Final: ● Hosted by winner of major semi-final against winner of preliminary final Please note that game schedules are subject to change. Please check game details with home team or venue.
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 17
Pulse TIPPED AS ONES TO WATCH With an experienced line-up and Robyn Broughton calling the shots, big things are expected from the Pulse this year
JOLINE HENRY
TEAM Haier APPLIANCES CENTRAL Pulse Netball Zone: Netball Central
Squad: Amber Bellringer Katrina Grant Paula Griffin Joline Henry Claire Kersten Camilla Lees Liana Leota Te Huinga Reo Selby-Rickit Victoria Smith Caitlin Thwaites Daya Wiffen Donna Wilkins
Coach: Robyn Broughton
Website: pulse.org.nz
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: Box 14845, Kilbirnie, Wellington
KATRINA GRANT
TE HUINGA REO SELBY-RICKIT
Home and Away: The Haier Pulse face three of the Australian teams in the opening rounds; the Thunderbirds, Firebirds and Swifts, but that doesn’t bother coach Robyn Broughton too much.
Leota and Wilkins have both previously played for Broughton for a number of years when she coached the Steel and Broughton is looking forward to working with both players once again.
SIDELINE VIEW: Broughton doesn’t shy away from the fact that many opposition coaches have labelled the Pulse as one of the sides to watch this year.
“Both Leota and Wilkins are consummate professionals and have great pride in their performance as well as contributing greatly to every team they play for,” says Broughton. “They do everything right off the court and they’re a great example for everybody else with their application and their professionalism.”
“Lots of people have been saying we’ve got a strong squad this year but I’ve said to the girls, ‘a team of champions doesn’t make a champion team,’” says Broughton. “We’ve got to work hard on and off the court to make it happen. That’s the challenge for the coach and the players.” The former Southern Steel supremo moved to the Pulse last year and brought a hard-nosed edge to their game. The side who finished last in the competition in 2008 and 2009, improved marginally to 9th and 8th in 2010 and 2011 respectively, finished 7th last year. “I’m really pleased for the Pulse that we had some success last year, but to me we could have had more,” says Broughton. “There were too many close games that we lost because we didn’t know how to close them out. That’s because we were not used to winning. There’s an art to winning and that’s something I talk to the players about a lot. I don’t know if it’s a dirty word or not but I love to win.” WHO’S HOT: Broughton has turned to two former Steel players, Donna Wilkins and Liana Leota, to help the Pulse make the playoffs for the first time.
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 18
Joline Henry is hoping to be back for the first game of the season after her recent pregnancy and Silver Fern Katrina Grant will captain the side from goal keep. TIP FOR THE TOP: “The Magic with all their Silver Ferns will be pretty hard to knock over,” says Broughton about who she thinks could win the title this season. “The Vixens and the Thunderbirds are the two Aussie teams that performed best in pre-season. Sharelle McMahon is back for the Vixens so they’ll be strong and I hope we’ll be battling it out with the rest. As a group we’re targeting a playoff spot. It’d be great to knock it off this year if we could.”
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Thunderbirds are all go After just missing a spot in last year’s grand final, the Thunderbirds are confident they have the team to win in 2013
CARLA BORREGO
HOME AND AWAY: The Thunderbirds have a nicely balanced start to the season, with a home start against the Pulse, before they go on the road to play the Vixens and Steel and then host the Fever and Vixens. Coach Jane Woodlands-Thompson is looking forward to opening her team’s 2013 campaign on home soil. “It is all about being organised and we pride ourselves on being ready anytime – anywhere. We had a particularly challenging start last year so we are looking forward to less travel and some balance between home and away games.” SIDELINE VIEW: The Thunderbirds will have on paper one of the strongest starting seven line-ups of any team in the ANZ Championship and they all have international experience. After last year’s heartbreaking one goal loss in the semifinal to eventual champions the Magic, the team is ready to move up a stage in 2013. “We had a comprehensive review of the season from everyone involved which was terrific and we have a challenging year again coming up,” said Woodlands-Thompson. “We have given four players to the AIS in preparation for the World Youth Cup so that has changed selections for us, but it has allowed an opportunity for us to pick up some really good athletes from different programmes. We think they will help fill some of the short fall we had last season and you hope you learn and get better across the board.”
von Bertouch but fully fit there are few midcourt players in the world to match her.
TEAM
Defensively the key player will once again be seasoned international Rebecca Bulley, who last year won all the Thunderbird team awards after an epic season.
ADELAIDE THUNDERBIRDS
WHO’S HOT: The Thunderbirds have recruited well with Laura Packard, Samantha Poolman, Stephanie Puopolo, Leigh Waddington joining the squad.
Netball Region:
Waddington was in the team as a replacement last year while Poolman is tall and skilful and comes from New South Wales leagues. She had an outstanding pre-season tournament hosted by the Vixens as did Puopolo, who is a young goal shoot from Victoria. Packard has been recruited through the regional system in South Australia ANL and like the other three is in her early 20s.
Emily Beaton Erin Bell Carla Borrego Natalie von Bertouch Rebecca Bulley Sharni Layton Kate Shimmin Renae Hallinan Laura Packard Samantha Poolman Stephanie Puopolo Leigh Waddington
TIP FOR THE TOP: Woodlands-Thompson says with the changes made at most teams this season, it will be harder than ever to pick who will make the semis. “Well us of course – go Thunderbirds! I think the Magic will be around the mark again this year and are so consistent and always hard to beat. The Vixens looked really sharp at the pre-season tournament and then it is a toss-up between the Fever and the Pulse for the final spot.” Spot Colour Version
South Australia
Squad:
Coach: Jane WoodlandsThompson
Website: adelaidethunderbirds.com.au
Tickets:
PANTONE
See website for details
205C
Contact: PO Box 2082 Hilton Plaza SA 5033
The Thunderbirds have a world class goal shoot in Jamaican Carla Borrego, and strength in midcourt through Emily Beaton and captain Natalie von Bertouch due to injury. The last two years have been frustrating for Diamonds captain
204C 1895C Black 6C White
Process Version
C/M/Y/K 0/83/17/0
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 21
0/59/5/0 0/28/2/0 100/0/0/100 White
Vixens After Repeat Finals Finish The Vixens lost the pulsating final to the Magic last year and look contenders again in 2013
BIANCA CHATFIELD
TEAM MELBOURNE VIXENS Netball Region: Victoria
Squad: Madison Browne Tegan Caldwell Bianca Chatfield Johannah Curran Shannon Eagland Erin Hoare Karyn Howarth Elissa Macleod Sharelle McMahon Geva Mentor Kate Moloney Amy Steel
Coach: Simone McKinnis
Website: melbournevixens.com.au
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: Melbourne Vixens PO Box 60 North Melbourne VIC 3051 Telephone: 0061 3 9321 2222
KARYN HOWARTH
GEVA MENTOR
HOME AND AWAY: The Vixens start with a tough fixture against the Mystics in Auckland before two home games against the Thunderbirds and Tactix, the bye, and two on the road to the Thunderbirds and Fever.
“We have a group that is committed and willing to work together to achieve together, and it is a good mix of new faces and experience, and everyone has one goal in mind and that is getting to the grand final.”
Coach Simone McKinnis says it is a matter of dealing with what you are given game by game.
WHO’S HOT: You can’t go past the return of Australian legend Sharelle McMahon who returns to top line netball after nearly two years out of the game. The champion shooter will add consistency and world class skills to the Vixens attack and be a great help to the new players who have arrived in Elissa Macleod, Amy Steel, Erin Hoare, Johannah Curran, Kate Maloney and Shannon Eagland. The interesting feature is that Steel, Macleod and Eagland have come from the Firebirds with proven form but all three came through the Victorian pathway as young players so are returning home.
“Away to the Mystics first up is a challenging match but is also a great way to start your campaign but either way we will cope with it.” SIDELINE VIEW: New head coach McKinnis has stepped up to the Vixens top job after just one season as an assistant coach to Julie Hoornweg. The former Australian under 21 coach, who was a specialist defensive coach at the Vixens last season, says she wants to see her team get in front in matches and stay there. “We need to push on and take advantage when on top. You look at the grand final last year and we were in a position to win that but weren’t able to finish it.”
TIP FOR THE TOP: McKinnis says her team is an obvious one, as that is what they have been preparing for and committed to achieving, especially after coming so close to winning the title last year.
The Vixens campaign got off to the best possible start when they were undefeated in winning the inaugural Summer Challenge tournament they hosted. Their form in beating the Tactix, Thunderbirds, Fever and Mystics certainly sent out a warning sign to the other teams and McKinnis was pleased with how her team performed.
“A lot of the teams have made some changes and so we still have a lot to learn about the teams but certainly you would have to look at last year’s championship winners Magic, and the Mystics as well, plus the Firebirds and the Thunderbirds.”
“They’re tough weekends to get through in terms of managing the player load but really valuable for us, and although we’re still really focused on what we’re working on, to be able do it in a competitive situation like this has been invaluable for the team. The Vixens have lost some star power on the court particularly with Ashlee Howard, Kara Richards, Kate Beveridge and Sarah Wall moving on. But McKinnis says the change in personnel has been positive for the team.
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 22
AUCKLAND
151 Arthur Street, Onehunga
HAMILTON
The Base, Te Rapa
WELLINGTON
24 Main Road, Tawa
CHRISTCHURCH
409 Main South Road, Hornby
Swifts NEED to Perform The Swifts missed the semis last year, which is a situation their demanding supporters will want fixing in 2013
KIMBERLEE GREEN
HOME AND AWAY: The NSW Swifts have five home games in Sydney, opening their 2013 campaign against the West Coast Fever. They are then off to New Zealand to play the Magic and Pulse before they host the Firebirds at home. Coach Lisa Beehag says she is pleased they are starting at home this year, as it is exciting and always good to start in familiar surrounds. “But the draw does offer some challenges to us as within the first seven weeks we have pretty much covered the whole of New Zealand and Australia. So that gets rid of our major travel early and gives us a more contained lead into the finals.” SIDELINE VIEW: Missing the finals last year was a big blow to the Swifts and they come into this season with the motto of ‘Swifter and Stronger Together’. Coach Beehag is in charge for her second season and she understands there is always pressure to succeed for the Sydney-based franchise. “That pressure is there constantly and I think there are a few clubs that have the expectation every year to win the championship. I guess the key thing is who is going to be the first to win it twice, because we have had a different winner every year. “We have coaches and players settled in now and we have a better idea of what the players can deliver so we are confident of doing well.” After some injury disruptions last year, Kimberlee Green is undoubtedly a key player for the Swifts on and off the court, and she and co-captain Mo’onia Gerrard will again be leading the team. Beehag says Green is the important link from defence to attack, her knowledge of the game and speed has always been one of her best attributes.
VANESSA WARE
“Kim is so good at moving the ball quickly down the court into our shooters. She is a player I have dealt with since she was about 15 and it is great to have been able to see her, and some of the other players like Ness Ware and Ashlee Weir, come through as juniors and get their first little toe into the elite pathway, and now they are at the top level. It is important as a coach to know what they have gone through to where they are today.” WHO’S HOT: Beehag is pleased with new recruits Paige Hadley, Melissa Tallent, Ashlee Weir. “Ash has come in and can cover wing defence and all three centre court roles, which gives us more flexibility. Paige is an Australian under-21 player and impressed as a replacement player on occassions last year, so looking forward to seeing her building in her first full year. Mel has come through the New South Wales pathway and is a shooter who doesn’t really like shooting – so I think that has to be a positive!” TIP FOR THE TOP: Beehag is predicting the closest competition yet. “You only have to look at last year and how tight it was but I think this year will be even tighter. We will be in the mix, the Steel are another one to push on from what they did last year, the Magic have to be looked at, of course, and also the Vixens.”
susan pratley
TEAM NSW SWIFTS Netball Region: New South Wales
Squad: Amorette Wild April Letton Ashlee Weir Carla Dziwoki Kimberlee Green Melissa Tallent Mo’onia Gerrard Paige Hadley Samantha May Sonia Mkoloma Susan Pratley Vanessa Ware
Coach: Lisa Beehag
Website: nswswifts.com.au
Tickets: swiftstickets.com.au
Contact: PO Box 396 Lidcombe, NSW 1825 Telephone: 0061 2 9951 5000
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 25
HOME AND AWAY: The Firebirds start at home against the Southern Steel before a tough road trip to New Zealand to face the Pulse and Mystics. Coach Rosalee Jencke says she does not get hung up about the draw.
WHO’S HOT: New players in are Laura Clemesha, Nicola Gray, Demelza McCloud, Abbey McCulloch, Kimberley Ravaillion and Gabrielle Simpson. Jencke says they are all players to watch and are fresh and exciting parts of a new-look Firebirds team.
“You have to play the Aussie teams twice and the Kiwis once so I don’t think it is that important. Our start can be looked at as a positive or a negative so we have to make the most of it.”
“They have really taken it to the older players and really challenged them on and off the court, which makes it hard for me to pick the starting seven. They work exceptionally hard and they are mentally quite tough, which I have seen from them in the pre-season.
SIDELINE VIEW: The Firebirds undertook a tough preseason camp and Jencke says it was a great success and particularly helped make the six new players in the squad feel part of the team.
The more experienced players have really embraced the new players and really do feel invigorated by how hard they have worked. Hopefully they will all get their opportunities on court.”
“It was the best camp we have had to date and it was really constructive in getting the players to know each other better and building the team harmony,” says Jencke.
TIP FOR THE TOP: Jencke says she will obviously have to put her team up as the first choice to make the playoffs but says it is tough picking out of the other teams.
They finished sixth last year after winning the title in 2011 and Jencke says lessons have been learned.
“The Magic and the Vixens will be dangerous as one is the defending champions and the other one played off in the final. The other spot could well go to the Fever and if there is a dark horse this year it could be the Tactix.”
“It is always hard backing up a premiership year. We had a look off-season at what type of players we needed to recruit both attitude wise and physically.”
TEAM QUEENSLAND FIREBIRDS Netball Region: Queensland
Squad: Romelda Aiken Laura Clemesha Laura Geitz (c) Nicola Gray Demelza McCloud Abbey McCulloch Natalie Medhurst Jacinta Messer Chelsea Pitman Kimberley Ravaillion Gabi Simpson Ameliaranne Wells
Coach: Roselee Jencke
Website: firebirds.net.au
Candice Adams, Shannon Eagland, Keirra Trompf, Elissa Macleod, Lauren Nourse and Amy Steel have moved on from last year. Jencke says the timing was right for change as they had been with her for a few years.
Tickets: See website for details
Contact: PO Box 50 Moorooka Queensland 4105
“Sometimes a change is good and it has given us an opportunity to select new players, so I think it is a positive for us.”
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NEAR FEVER PITCH The West Coast Fever have promised much but delivered little in the championship so far but there were promising signs last year under coach Norma Plummer
CAITLIN BASSETT
TEAM WEST COAST FEVER Netball Region: Western Australia
Squad: Caitlin Bassett Eboni BeckfordChambers Kate Beveridge Shae Bolton Ashleigh Brazill Courtney Bruce Catherine Cox (c) Andrea Gilmore Chanel Gomes Josie Janz Lisa Millman Verity Simmons
Coach: Norma Plummer
Website: westcoastfever.com.au
Tickets: Ticketmaster.com.au
Contact: Netball Western Australia PO Box 930, Subiaco, WA 6904 Telephone: 0061 8 9380 3700
CATHERINE COX
HOME AND AWAY The Fever have one of the best draws of any team in the ANZ Championship and could well get off to a flying start. They open against the NSW Swifts in Sydney before they have two games at their excellent home base at the Challenge Stadium in Perth against the Mystics and Magic – neither of whom will relish the arduous travel schedule – before a trip to Adelaide to take on the Thunderbirds. The Fever have another home game to follow against the Swifts again to end an opening five games that offer plenty of promise for Fever fans. SIDELINE VIEW: Legendary coach Norma Plummer retired from the Diamonds national job to take on the Fever last year and made an instant impact. Sure the final finish of eighth was just one spot better than the previous year but there were some highly competitive finishes in the latter part of the campaign that showed the Fever are no longer easy beats. Plummer instilled a new culture and hard-nosed attitude that have always typified her teams over the years. Expectations are high that this year will be the best ever for the Fever and Plummer has shown faith in the franchise by signing a new contract to take her through to the end of the 2014 season, with an option to extend her position to the end of 2015. Her tough love style has been evident from the start of preseason training when she said the new leadership group of captain Catherine Cox, vice-captain Caitlin Bassett, Shae Bolton and new squad member Andrea Gilmore were not guaranteed starting spots in the team. “It’s a performance-based programme and I don’t promise anyone anything,” Plummer said. “Even with the selection of the leadership group, I said to them, ‘From this team’s point of view, congratulations, but it doesn’t give you the right to feel that you’ll be on court every week’. I’ve always
ANZ CHAMPIONSHIP 2013 28
SHAE BOLTON
lived by that and it’ll be no different at Fever. You have to be able to produce.” The Fever have retained their key internationals Caitlin Bassett, Catherine Cox, Ashleigh Brazill and Eboni Beckford-Chambers. WHO’S HOT: The Fever have made just three signings from last year and so have a settled look to their squad. The loss of experienced international defender, Susan Fuhrmann, in early February was a big blow but she decided she could not continue with chronic knee problems. In comes 188cm Courtney Bruce who is just 19 and had a one year stint with the Fever in 2011. West Australian shooter Kate Beveridge returns home after playing for the Vixens last year and Lisa Millman has been signed to replace the injured Sarah East. TIP FOR THE TOP: Plummer says making the final four is a major objective this year for the Fever so she includes her team in the semis. “The other teams are so evenly matched but I will definitely go with the Mystics and you can’t go past last year’s champs the Magic. The Firebirds and Vixens will also be contenders but all the Australian teams are worth a shout.”
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