Skill and athleticism are key components when it comes to achieving success in the Origin Energy Premier League, but don’t discount raw passion either.
“Performances that show a desire and belief to win…” – that’s what Central Coast Heart Under 23s Head Coach Kristie Fuller wants to see from her team in 2022.
“Regardless of outcome, I want to make sure we are putting out consistent four-quarter performances.
“We have some new players and combinations, and some athletes about to experience their first time in the competition.
“We also have a few returning athletes who have collected their experiences from last year and other programs and will be smarter and more prepared for the season ahead.”
Fuller herself is a first-time Head Coach at this level, and she can’t wait to get stuck into the season.
“Everyone is competition… I would never walk into a game thinking it's a guaranteed win or loss,” she adds.
“We will be competing against ourselves to make sure we are getting better each week. That's what we play for… sharing the highs and challenges of our sport with everyone in our team. These moments create lasting memories.”
Opens Head Coach Amber Cross, who has already tasted title success in the Premier League, enters this season with a team in transition after senior players announced their retirements in the off-season.
However, she is pretty excited about the new crop of talent and returning players she has in her ranks for 2022.
“This year has seen a lot of senior members of our team retiring from Premier League which has given opportunities to some younger players in our pathway as well as some returning athletes,” Cross says.
“Former Opens captain Alicia Walsh is back after having a baby which is fabulous for her but also the team, as she brings both experience and leadership. We also have Madalyn Wild returning to the team after an ACL injury in 2019. We are excited for her to get back on court and show what she can do.
“Young gun Sammie Chicken is also joining the team after a year away from netball. She has a lot of potential and we are keen to see her star in our defensive circle, alongside Dakota Thomas and Maddi Mueller. These changes have really revitalised the playing group and there’s a fresh, positive energy within the team.”
Patience will be key for the Heart as their new combinations look to get on court, but the ambition remains to be Opens contenders again.
“We’ve been working hard in the pre-season and there are some really encouraging signs on the training court,” Cross adds.
“With some big changes to our line we expect it will take a little bit of time to build connections but we are confident in our playing style and, like always, have our eyes on Finals.
“Every team is tough in Premier League, but we expect that both North Shore United and ERNA Hawks will be strong this year, as always.
“We are just grateful for the opportunity to play and hopefully get through a complete season without any COVID interruptions.”
Amen to that.
Find out more about Central Coast Heart teams by visiting their Team Bios page on the Origin Energy Premier League website: https://www.nnswpremierleague.com.au/playerbios/central-coast-heart-team-bios/
