The Netball NSW All Abilities Team is heading to Brisbane for the national tournament with one goal in mind — defending their national crown at the Marie Little Shield.
"Last year, as underdogs, there wasn’t as much pressure going into the final. This year, carrying the gold medal with us, I do feel a little more pressure. But it’s still another tournament where everyone starts on equal footing, and we have to work hard to build towards that gold medal match,” Head Coach Therri Ellison said.
The annual tournament, named in honour of disability sport pioneer Marie Little OAM, brings together the best All Abilities netballers from across the country. For NSW, it’s an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent and spirit within the squad, led by experienced players like Orange-based Eliza Mills.
Mills, preparing for her ninth appearance at the Shield, says the excitement never fades.
"Every year it feels just as special. It’s not just about winning — it’s about being part of a team where everyone supports each other. That’s what I love most about it," she said.
Ellison said the team’s progress throughout the 10-week training program has been rewarding to watch.
"Every year, the athletes start a little slow in the first sessions, but once they get together and begin working as a team, we really see the improvements on court," she said.
“By the time we get to match play in the final sessions, they’re able to put everything they’ve been practicing into action."
Coaching an All Abilities team, many of whom have mild intellectual disabilities, requires adjusting communication and training drills.
"We always keep the expectations high. Sometimes it just takes more time and practice, but the players get there. A few years ago, the four corners drill started with chaos and laughter, but by the end of the season they had mastered it — and now they can pick it up straight away. With patience and clear instruction, they can achieve anything we set out to do," Ellison said.
The Head Coach said the team is ready to face strong rivals, including Victoria and South Australia.
"This group has worked incredibly hard and shown so much resilience in their preparation. They bring passion, pride, and a unique style of netball that makes them a joy to coach. The Marie Little Shield is always fiercely contested, but our focus is on playing our game and enjoying the moment together."
Ellison first joined the program ten years ago as an assistant coach and took over as head coach when Jenny O’Keefe moved on to the Giants.
"Seeing the players develop their skills, build connections on the court, and gain confidence is incredibly fulfilling. There are moments in training or in games when something just ‘clicks’ for them — and as a coach, that’s such a special thing to witness," she said.
"But it’s more than just netball. The Marie Little Shield team feels like a little family. The athletes celebrate birthdays together, go on holidays, and form friendships across states. For me, it’s about creating an environment where they can be active, learn, and connect — and that sense of belonging is just as important as the competition itself."
With a mix of experienced leaders and emerging talent, NSW is ready to test itself against the best in the country. For Mills, balancing the demands of training, motherhood, and long travel to Sydney sessions, the journey is worth every kilometre.
"When I step on court with this team, I feel proud — proud of myself, proud of my teammates, and proud to represent NSW," she said.
The Marie Little Shield takes place in Brisbane from 5th – 7th September 2025. KommunityTV’s exclusive live stream coverage will include every match from the tournament and will be completely free to view for netball fans.
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